Launch Your Career in Federal Human Resources
Barton Community College, in partnership with Golden Key Group (GKG), proudly offers the first Associate’s Degree in Federal Human Resources in the country. Designed for transitioning servicemembers, military spouses, and civilian learners, this program equips you with the skills, knowledge, and confidence to step directly into federal HR roles that support mission success across the government.
With more than 22 years of experience supporting over 50 federal agencies, Golden Key Group (GKG) is a trusted leader in federal Human Capital, Training & Education, and Workforce Modernization. Read below to learn about our partner!
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?
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Earn a Nationally Recognized Degree
Graduate with an accredited associate’s degree that directly applies to careers in Federal Human Resources. -
Learn from Experienced Experts
Study under instructors with decades of real-world government and federal HR experience who bring practical insight to every course. -
Enjoy Flexible, Military-Friendly Scheduling
Designed for working professionals and service members, Barton’s online courses let you learn anytime, anywhere. -
Build a Purpose-Driven Career
Prepare for a stable and rewarding career that supports your family’s future while contributing to the mission of the nation.
Career Outlook
A career in Federal Human Resources offers more than just a job — it’s a pathway to a stable, rewarding, and purpose-driven profession that supports the nation’s workforce. Federal HR professionals play a vital role in recruiting, developing, and retaining the talent that keeps government agencies running effectively.
With specialized training designed to meet the standards of the U.S. Office of Personnel Management (OPM) and federal hiring practices, Barton graduates are well-prepared to enter or advance within the federal system.
Career Advantages:
- Stability and Security: Federal HR roles offer dependable employment with comprehensive benefits and long-term career potential.
- Competitive Pay and Advancement: Enjoy structured pay scales, merit-based promotions, and clear professional growth opportunities.
- Meaningful Impact: Support the missions of federal agencies that serve communities across the nation.
- Diverse Career Paths: Opportunities span recruitment, employee relations, policy development, workforce planning, training, and benefits administration.
- Nationwide Opportunities: Federal HR professionals are in demand across civilian, defense, and intelligence agencies, with both in-person and remote positions available.
Graduates of Barton’s program enter the workforce ready to contribute from day one—bringing the knowledge, professionalism, and commitment to excellence that federal agencies value.
About Our Partner
Golden Key Group has more than 22 years of experience supporting federal agencies with Human Resources, Human Capital Management, Training & Education, and Program Management. Trusted by over 50 agencies across the federal government, GKG brings proven expertise in modernizing HR practices and building career pathways that strengthen both mission readiness and the people who make it possible.
Committed to those who serve, GKG is a four-time recipient of the HIRE Vets Gold Medallion, a Virginia Values Veterans (V3) certified company, and an ESGR Patriot Award honoree — underscoring GKG's dedication to recruiting, employing, and retaining veterans.
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Serving Those Who Serve: Build Your Career in Federal Human Resources
Barton’s Federal Human Resources program provides a comprehensive foundation in the principles, policies, and practices that drive the federal workforce. Each course is designed to build the specialized knowledge and practical skills needed to navigate the unique structure of federal employment systems.
From understanding employee benefits and payroll to mastering classification, performance management, and ethical standards, you’ll gain a complete view of the federal HR lifecycle—from recruitment to retirement.
Course topics include:
- Introduction to Federal Human Resources
- Payroll
- HR Foundations
- Federal Employees’ Group Life Insurance (FEGLI)
- Employee Relations
- Federal Employees Health Benefits (FEHB)
- Talent Acquisition
- Position Classification
- Performance Management
- Ethics
- Thrift Savings Plan
- Communication
- Personnel Action Requests (PAR)
Through this specialized coursework, you’ll graduate ready to support agency missions, serve employees effectively, and advance your career in federal human resources.
Degree Maps
Degree Maps
Associate in Art
Federal Human Resources (61 hours degree)
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).
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.