Established in 1855 as the first non-segregated, coeducational college in the South, Berea is a private liberal arts college with a remarkable mission — to offer tuition-free education to everyone regardless of income, gender or ethnicity. Deeply rooted in Appalachian culture and history, the trailblazing Kentucky institution combines strong academics with a one-of-a-kind work-study program designed to dignify all labor, keeping the region’s craft heritage alive.