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Education Programs

Education curriculum is designed to provide the first two years of coursework required for a bachelor’s degree in education and eventual state teacher certification. The program includes a combination of general education courses and education-focused classes based on your chosen area of emphasis—whether Early Childhood, Elementary, Secondary, or Special Education.

To ensure a smooth transfer, students are encouraged to work closely with an academic advisor to select the right emphasis and meet the specific requirements of their intended transfer institution.

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. 

Kansas Board of Regent’s Systemwide Elementary Education (PK-6) Transfer Associate Degree

This agreement means that all students who receive an associate of science or an associate of arts degree with an emphasis in elementary education at Barton can seamlessly transfer all credits to the Regent Universities in Kansas and will be on-track to begin their junior year of studies in their education program. Additionally, we offer classes both online and in-person for the full term and in 8-week sessions to support traditional and working college students.

Kansas Department of Education’s Registered Teaching Apprenticeship Model

This model offers a comprehensive approach to teacher training by combining on-the-job learning, related technical instruction, mentorship, and a structured wage scale (ksde.org). This is an amazing opportunity to local districts to grow educators within their community. Barton has been approved as an Education Preparation Program for students in their first 60 credit hours before transferring to complete at a university. This program is for elementary and some secondary programs. KSDE is compiling a guidebook to provide detailed information for school administrators and students. In the meantime, check out the KSDE webpage for more information. 

Become a Cougar 


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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. 

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Financial Aid

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

Get Involved Beyond the Classroom

Students in Barton’s Education program have the opportunity to enhance their learning and build professional connections through involvement in organizations such as:

  • Kansas National Education Association (KNEA) – Engage with a statewide network of educators, gain access to teaching resources, and stay informed on education policy and advocacy.
  • STEM Buddies Mentorship Program – Participate in mentoring opportunities that support STEM learning for younger students, while developing leadership and instructional skills.

These organizations offer valuable experiences that help students grow as future educators, build resumes, and expand their professional network.

Degree Maps
Degree Maps

Elementary Education

The Elementary Education curriculum prepares to to teach in elementary, middle and junior high school.

Elementary Education

Secondary Education

The Secondary Education curriculum prepares you to teach at the junior and high school levels.  We do have degree plans for Education emphasis in Art, Mathematics, Music, Physical Education and many of the sciences. You can find that information on their respective pages.

Secondary Education

Special Education

The Special Education curriculum prepares you to teach students with mild/moderate mental or physical disabilities. Students interested in licensure in Special Education should first explore the requirements for obtaining a teaching license in Elementary or Secondary Education. Special Education in many four-year institutions is a minor program leading to a special education endorsement to the regular teaching license. Coursework in Special Education is usually completed during the junior or senior year of a four-year bachelor's degree education program.

Special Education

View the full list of Curriculum Guides (applicable for students admitted prior to Fall 2024) and Degree Maps (applicable for students admitted Fall 2024 and after).

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

Instrumental Auditions
Instrumental Auditions

Preparing for an Instrumental Music Audition

To begin the audition process, all students must register by completing the Music Interest Contact Form.

Audition Requirements

Prospective instrumental students should be prepared to perform the following:

  • Brass and Woodwinds  
    • Play a chromatic scale across the range of your instrument (ascending and descending) 
    • Solo, etude, or excerpts from ensemble music (at least one lyrical and one technical excerpt of student’s choice).  Approximately three minutes of music. 
  • Percussionists 
    • Prepare excerpts (of the student’s choice) on any two instruments – Snare Drum, Mallets, Timpani 
  • Strings 
    • Violin: one three-octave scale of your choice and two minutes of a solo 
    • Viola, cello, and bass: the two-octave scale of your choice and two minutes of a solo 
    • Guitar: natural and chromatic scales on first position and a piece of choice 
  • Piano
    • Two-octaves scales, hands together, majors and harmonic minors in all keys. 
    • Two contrasting pieces, showcasing a variety of styles. 

If majoring in piano performance, a third piece from a different historical period needs to be prepared and memorized, totaling three pieces for the audition process, one memorized. 

Sight-reading will be assessed during the audition. 

Auditions are an opportunity to showcase your musical ability, technique, and expression. We encourage you to choose pieces that highlight your strengths and reflect your musical interests.

If you have any questions about audition preparation, feel free to contact our music faculty for guidance.

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!

 
 

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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!

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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.