Prepare for Certification. Protect Crops. Support Agriculture.
Barton’s Crop Protection program provides students with the specialized training needed to enter one of agriculture’s most essential and in-demand fields. Through a combination of classroom instruction and hands-on experience, students gain a solid foundation in chemical application methods, equipment safety, integrated pest management, and environmental stewardship.
Students can choose from:
- A one-year certificate program for fast entry into the workforce
- A two-year Associate of Applied Science (AAS) degree for broader career and advancement opportunities
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.
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.
Instruction
Crop Protection Courses
Barton’s Crop Protection program offers practical, career-ready courses that build your knowledge in livestock and farm operations with courses like:
- Concepts for Agriculture – Intro to the ag industry and career paths
- Plant Science – Basics of crop and forage production
- Farm Machinery & Technology – Safe operation and ag tech use
- Crop Protection – Learn to identify and manage pests, weeds, and diseases using safe, effective application methods.
- Fertilizer Management – Study soil nutrients, application techniques, and sustainable fertilizer practices.
- Introduction to GPS – Explore GPS tools used in precision agriculture for mapping and efficient fieldwork.
These courses combine classroom learning with hands-on experience to prepare you for work in the crop industry.
Real-World Preparation
Students receive hands-on training and are prepared to take the Kansas Commercial Pesticide Applicator Certification Exam or similar exams required in other states.
Career Opportunities
Graduates are prepared to work as:
- Certified Pesticide Applicators
- Agronomy Technicians
- Custom Application Specialists
- Crop Scouts
- Field Service Representatives
- Agriculture Sales & Support Professionals
Many find employment with:
- Agricultural cooperatives
- Private farms and ranches
- Crop consulting companies
- Chemical and seed companies
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!
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
Degree Maps
Associate in Applied Science Degrees (2 year degree-non-transfer)
Crop Protection Application (65 hours - degree guide)
Certificates
Crop Protection Application (25 hours - certificate guide)
Crop Protection Application (33 hours - certificate guide)
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.
Agriculture Transfer Opportunities
Agriculture Transfer Opportunities
Continue Your Education Beyond Barton
Many students in Barton’s Agriculture programs choose to transfer to four-year universities to complete their bachelor’s degrees. Two of the most common transfer destinations are:
Fort Hays State University (FHSU)
Fort Hays State University is a popular choice for agriculture students completing their associate degree at Barton. Common majors include:
Agricultural Business
Agricultural Education
General Agriculture
Agronomy
Animal Science
Beef Cattle Management
Kansas State University (K-State)
Kansas State University offers a wide range of specialized agriculture degrees. Barton students often transfer into programs such as:
Agricultural Economics / Agri-Business
Agricultural Education
Agricultural Journalism
Agricultural Technology Management
Agronomy (Business & Industry, Consulting & Production, Range Management, Soil & Environmental Science)
Plant Science & Biotechnology
Animal Science (Business, Production, Communication, Animal Products, BioScience, Pre-Veterinary)
Feed Science & Management
Food Science
Horticulture (Science, Nursery & Greenhouse Management, Landscape, Golf Course Management, Therapy)
Milling Science
Bakery Science
Park Management & Conservation
Your path doesn’t stop at Barton—our agriculture programs are built to transfer seamlessly, so you can keep moving toward your academic and career goals.
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.