A degree in English from Barton Community College equips students with essential skills in communication, critical thinking, analysis, and writing—skills that are in high demand across countless professions. Whether you're aiming for a career in business, law, journalism, education, or public service, an English degree provides a versatile foundation that can take you in many directions.
Barton Benefits
At Barton, our academic programs are designed to equip students with the knowledge, skills, and critical thinking necessary to thrive in today’s world. Whether you're just beginning your educational journey or advancing your career, we offer flexible and rigorous programs that support your goals.
Why Barton?
- Coursework prepares students for successful transfer to four-year institutions
- Studies span global culture, politics, and key concepts across diverse perspectives
- Emphasis is placed on rhetoric, literature, and creative writing
- Curriculum fosters critical thinking, cultural awareness, and strong communication skills
Instruction
At Barton, our instructors are not only experienced professionals in their fields—they're also dedicated educators committed to student success. With real-world industry backgrounds and a passion for teaching, they provide consistent, high-quality instruction in every course. Learn more about our English instructors below!
Paulia Bailey
Instructor of English
Distinguished Instructor Award Recipient, 2021
Office: C-Bldg., Rm. 118
baileyp@bartonccc.edu
(620) 792-9261
MFA, University of Nebraska at Omaha
M.A., Fort Hays State University
B.A., Wichita State University
A.A., Barton Community College
Instructor Bailey is proud to have taught English Composition in all modalities at Barton Community College. She also teaches Composition I with Review and Composition II. In addition, Instructor Bailey teaches Developmental classes in the integration of Reading and Writing. Other English classes taught by Instructor Bailey include Introduction to Literature, World Literature, and Creative Writing.
Paulina Lyn Bailey's short fiction has been appeared most recently in Issue 139 of Prime Number Magazine and has previously appeared in Stoneboat Literary Journal.
She is a member of the Academic Integrity Counsel and a graduate of the 2023 Assessment Institute at Barton. She is a member of the Academics Division and works actively within Developmental Education workgroups.
Instructor Bailey encourages students to reach out to her with any questions or concerns.
Sheyene Heller
Instructor of English
MFA - Creative Nonfiction, Goucher College
M.A. - English, Kansas State University
B.A. - English, Kansas State University
Instructor Heller's nonfiction has been published in W.W. Norton's In Brief, Brevity (three times), Nebraska Review, Clackamas Literary Review, River Teeth, Pennsylvania English, Wheelhouse, PIF, American Cowboy, Invisible Insurrections, and elsewhere. She also served as a contributor to Literary Magazine Review, and she was co-editor of the first volume of the anthology Ms. Aligned (2016). Instructor Heller first started with Barton as a tutor at the Fort Riley Tutor Center in August 2001. Over time, she began teaching BSEP and LSEC courses on base, and she then started developing online offerings in English through Barton Online. She currently lives in Lawrence with her husband Steve and son Tru.
Prairie Ink
The English department publishes Prairie Ink, a literary annual, that welcomes fiction, creative non-fiction, poetry, drama, and literary criticism. Prairie Ink also accepts graphic and visual works. Submissions from the Barton community are encouraged.
Become a Cougar
Complete the Admissions checklist of requirements to become a Cougar today.
Barton classes are affordable and accessible, with sessions starting throughout the year.
You have many options to help you accomplish yours goals and we're here to help!
Barton’s English program offers a wide range of courses designed to enhance academic and workplace writing.
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Composition I and II build the core writing skills needed for success at four-year universities and beyond.
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Technical Communications and Technical and Report Writing focus on clear, effective communication in professional settings.
At Barton, English is more than reading and writing—it's preparation for a future shaped by the power of words.
Degree Maps
Courses
Courses
Check our Course Search for availability and location offered each term.
- Composition 1
- Composition 2
- Business English
- Technical and Report Writing
- Creative Writing
- Introduction to Literature
- World Literature
- American Literature 1
- Introduction to Drama
- Great Books Program
- The Short Story
- Copy Editing
Students Preparing to Transfer
Students Preparing to Transfer
Barton Community College's English curriculum is designed to provide the general education requirement and core English courses for students who plan to transfer to a four-year college or university to complete a bachelor's degree in English or a related field. Electives must meet the requirements of the transfer institution. Students should coordinate with their advisor for transfer requirements.
Discover Career Paths
Discover Career Paths
Visit the What Can I Do with My Major? webpage to find helpful resources on career paths, employers and more!
Admissions
You are only a few quick steps away from becoming a Barton Cougar! The Admissions process is quick, easy and free - we're here to help you through every step of the way. Start your future today!
Student Life
Barton is dedicated to creating a vibrant and engaging student experience! From clubs to student activities, we offer countless opportunities to make the most of your time as a Cougar.