September 15, 2026
Story by Barton Communications
Barton Community College continues to provide Kansas high school students with affordable opportunities to earn college credit, explore career pathways, and get a head start on their education before graduating from high school.
Through Barton’s Early College Opportunities, eligible high school sophomores, juniors, and seniors can take college courses at their high schools, online, or at the Barton County Campus. Students can access reduced tuition rates beginning at $50 per credit hour, while Barton Online courses are available to high school students at a scholarship rate of $75 per credit hour.
Students interested in career and technical education may have an additional opportunity to take certain courses tuition-free through the state’s Excel in CTE Initiative, formerly known as Senate Bill 155. The initiative allows eligible Kansas high school juniors and seniors to take approved career and technical education courses without paying tuition, although textbook or material fees may apply. Approved courses are determined by the Kansas Board of Regents.
Beginning in fall 2026, students seeking Excel in CTE funding must be a junior or senior at a Kansas high school, have at least a 2.0 GPA, and be on track to graduate as defined by their school district. Eligibility must be verified by a high school official. Updated state funding requirements also address course retakes and continued eligibility following unsuccessful completion of Excel in CTE courses.
Barton’s Director of Early College Opportunities Karly Little said Barton’s flexible course options are designed to meet students where they are so they can get a head start on college and work toward their individual goals.
“College Advantage courses are taught at participating high schools, our Partnered Online courses combine online instruction from a Barton faculty member with support from a high school mentor, and Barton County Campus courses provide another option for students whose schedules allow them to attend in person,” she said. “Barton Online also provides self-paced courses without specific meeting times, allowing students to complete coursework at school or from home whenever they have time to work on them.”
Students who do not qualify for Excel in CTE funding can still take advantage of Barton’s reduced high school tuition rates. Career and technical education courses not covered through Excel in CTE may be available for $50 per credit hour at the Barton County Campus, through courses taught by Barton faculty at partner high schools, or through Partnered Online. Barton Online courses are available at the $75-per-credit-hour scholarship rate.
Whether students want to complete general education requirements, explore a career field, or begin working toward a credential, Barton’s Early College opportunities can help students make meaningful progress toward their future while still in high school.
For more information about Barton’s Early College opportunities, visit highschool.bartonccc.edu. Information about Excel in CTE eligibility, funding requirements, and approved courses is available at bartonccc.edu/highschool/senatebill