Agriculture

Start at Barton. Grow Your Potential.

Barton’s Liberal Studies and Career Technical Programs in Agriculture offers a flexible transfer degree for students who plan to earn a bachelor's degree in an agriculture-related field. The program provides a strong academic foundation and prepares you to continue your education at a four-year university in a variety of agricultural specialties.

Agriculture is Kansas’ largest industry and plays a major role in the state’s economy. It also offers a wide range of career opportunities. Whether you earn a certificate or a two-year degree, you can pursue careers that offer competitive pay, strong benefits, and opportunities for long-term growth in this vital industry.

Barton Benefits

At Barton, our areas of study 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.

Current Certificates:

Current AAS:

Current AS:

Agriculture Business Management
Agriculture
Agriculture Communications
Agriculture Economics
Agriculture Education
Agronomy
Animal Science
Forestry
Horticulture/Turf Management
Milling Science/Food Science
Veterinary Medicine (Pre-Professional)
Wildlife Sciences

Why Barton?
Career Pathways

Why Barton?

Instructional Excellence

Small Class Sizes – Get one-on-one attention and personalized instruction from knowledgeable faculty.
Hands-On Learning – Gain real-world experience through practical labs, farm activities, and livestock handling.
Industry Field Trips – Explore career paths and agricultural operations through guided site visits.

Student Support & Campus Life

Caring, Experienced Faculty – Instructors are committed to your success both in and out of the classroom.
Strong Student Support System – Academic, career, and personal support services available every step of the way.
Student Organizations – Join groups like Collegiate Farm Bureau to enhance your college experience and network with agriculture industry professionals.
Flexible Advisement – Prepare for a career in two years or less or seamlessly transfer to a four-year institution.

Career Pathways

After completing a bachelor’s degree, you’ll be prepared for careers in areas such as:

Agribusiness or Ag Finance
Crop and Livestock Production
Agricultural Education or Extension
Soil and Environmental Science
Precision Ag and Ag Technology
Government or Policy Work

Start strong at Barton with affordable tuition, hands-on learning, and a clear path to your next step in agriculture.

Investing in the Future of Agriculture and Skilled Trades

Barton is proud to announce the construction of the new Ag and Transportation Complex, a state-of-the-art facility designed to expand educational opportunities and strengthen workforce training in high-demand industries. Once completed, the facility will provide modern classrooms, advanced lab space, and hands-on training areas that support Barton’s agriculture and transportation programs.

A Transformational Investment

The project represents a significant investment in the future of agriculture education, with an estimated construction cost of $3.6 million. Funding is supported through a 1:1 matching grant made possible by federal stimulus funds from the American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA) and awarded through the Kansas Department of Commerce. Additional support is provided through private donations and state-approved tax credits that encourage capital improvements at Kansas community and technical colleges.

Community Partnerships Powering Progress

The Ag and Transportation Complex is being made possible through the generosity of alumni, community members, businesses, foundations, and industry partners who share Barton’s commitment to preparing the next generation of agricultural and skilled trades professionals.

We extend our sincere appreciation to all donors and sponsors whose support is helping bring this project to life.

Leadership Sponsors | $250,000+

Barton Community College Foundation
Glenn and Elaine Mull Family Donor Advised Fund at Golden Belt Community Foundation
L.L. Alban Memorial Endowment

Platinum Sponsors | $100,000+

Bill McKown Memorial Endowment
CNH
Farmers Bank and Trust
Kirkman Endowment for Academic Studies

Gold Sponsors | $20,000+

American Plains Co-op
Gene's Scale Service, LLC
In Memory of Merlin and in Honor of Nelva Grimes
KanEquip, Inc.
In Memory of Keith and Marian Mull
Schmidt Foundation
Travis Scale

Thank you to all of our donors and partners for investing in Barton’s students, strengthening our regional workforce, and helping create new opportunities for future generations.

Become a Cougar

Apply to Barton

Complete the Admissions checklist of requirements to become a Cougar today.

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Barton classes are affordable and accessible, with sessions starting throughout the year.

Financial Aid

You have many options to help you accomplish yours goals and we're here to help!

Industry Support

Real Connections. Real Opportunities.

Barton’s Agriculture Program is backed by strong industry support, helping students transition smoothly from the classroom to the workforce.

Career Placement & Employment Support – Our industry partners are committed to helping students find meaningful employment after program completion.
Internships & Work-Based Learning – Gain hands-on experience through internships and occupational work opportunities that build your resume and skillset.
Guest Speakers & Industry Insight – Learn directly from agricultural professionals who bring real-world expertise into the classroom.

These connections ensure that students graduate with not only the knowledge, but also the industry relationships needed to succeed.

Degree Maps

Associate in Science Degree (transfer degree)
If you plan to attend Barton and then transfer to a four-year school, please consult with your advisor regarding classes to take at Barton to help you in a smooth transition to your four-year transfer school. Students should also contact the college/university to where they are transferring concerning degree requirements within the appropriate department or college.

Agriculture (degree guide)

Check out the Course Search for a full listing of courses available.

Discover Career Paths

Visit the What Can I Do with My Major? webpage to find helpful resources on career paths, employers and more!

Occupational Outlook

Agriculture graduates are in high demand whether they achieve a two-year or four-year degree
Crop protection applicator salaries start at $36,000 annually. Source: Barton Agriculture Advisory Board
B.S. degrees in agriculture can expect to earn between $41,000 to $81,000 annually in the state of Kansas. Source: Kansas Occupational Wage and Outlook Reports
"Agriculture employs 17% of the U.S. workforce containing more than 24 million American workers to produce, process, sell and trade the nation’s food and fiber” Source: Gary Niemeyer, National Corn Crowers Association,Testifying before the US Senate Agriculture, Nutrition and Forestry Committee

Academic Partnership

The following schools are more popular for Agriculture related majors to transfer to after attending Barton.

Fort Hays State University
Most common Agriculture related majors transferring to FHSU include: Agriculture Business, Agriculture Education, Agriculture Education, General Agriculture, Agronomy, Animal Science, and Beef Cattle Management.

Kansas State University
Most common Agriculture related majors transferring to K-State include: Agriculture Economics/Agri-Business; Agriculture Education; Agriculture Journalism; Agriculture Technology Management; Agronomy - Business & Industry; Agronomy - Consulting & Production; Agronomy - Range Management; Agronomy - Soil and Environmental Science: Plant Science and Biotechnology; Animal Science - Business/Production/Communication/Animal Products; Animal Science - BioScience/Biotechnology; Animal Science and Industry - Pre-Veterinary Medicine; Feed Science and Management; Food Science; Horticulture - Science, Nursery Management, Production, Greenhouse Management, Landscape, Golf Course Management; Horticulture Therapy; Milling Science; Bakery Science; and Park Management and Conservation

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.