Berea is one of only ten federally recognized Work Colleges. Every student works a minimum of 10 hours per week at a campus job in one of more than 130 departments. In working on campus, students support the operations and mission of the College and also gain important workplace experience even before graduation.

Just as you build your academic skills step-by-step, your work assignments will start at the introductory level and progress into positions with greater responsibility and specialization. This reflects Berea’s long-standing belief in the dignity of all work, both mental and manual. Throughout your time here, you can tailor your pathway by submitting resumes and applying to positions that excite you.

The Work College Program is a vital component of Berea’s educational experience. Our graduates enter the workforce or graduate/professional schools as well-rounded individuals ready to take on the world. You’ll graduate with four years of specific job-related experience and a valuable toolkit of soft skills employers eagerly look for in candidates. Additionally, each student is awarded a work transcript, in addition to an academic transcript, detailing their entire work experience upon graduation. This work transcript can effectively answer the question so many applicants face in an interview: “So what did you accomplish in college?” At Berea, you’ll be equipped and prepared to answer compellingly.

The Work College Program is a gateway to endless career possibilities. You will have a special opportunity, for example, to align your work position with your chosen academic major, another way that a Berea education makes you especially prepared over graduates from other institutions.

So take advantage of the endless opportunities to explore passions you might not typically pursue. From herding cattle on the Berea College Farm to performing research in state-of-the-art chemistry labs, there's meaningful work to be found for everyone.

Berea College | Stephenson Building, Room 128 | CPO 2180 | Berea, KY 40404 | 859-985-3611 | workcollegeprogram@berea.edu | Instagram