On September 6, 1990, the school changed its name to Barton College in honor of Barton Warren Stone, a founder of the Christian Church (Disciples of Christ) who was active in eastern North Carolina.

[8][9] In 2024, Barton College accepted 94.6% of undergraduate applicants with those admitted having an average 3.25 high school GPA, and with 70% being in the top half of their high school graduating class and 50% in the top quarter.

[11] 81% of Barton College seniors have participated internships, undergraduate research, or field experiences.

The college is a member of the Division II level of the National Collegiate Athletic Association (NCAA), primarily competing in Conference Carolinas since the 1930–31 academic year.

Barton competes in 22 intercollegiate varsity sports: Men's sports include baseball, basketball, cross country, football, golf, lacrosse, soccer, swimming, tennis, track & field and volleyball; while women's sports include basketball, cheerleading, cross country, golf, lacrosse, soccer, softball, swimming, tennis, track & field and volleyball.