A private work college in Appalachia where students earn tuition through mandatory part-time employment.
Alice Lloyd College offers 18 major degree programs and eight pre-professional programs with a 14.5:1 student-to-faculty ratio and average class size of 18. As of 2024, the college emphasizes leadership development in Appalachia. Notably, 95% of graduates are accepted into graduate and professional schools, and 75% are first-generation college students. The college is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools (SACS).
Alice Lloyd is one of nine work colleges in the United States and one of two in Kentucky with mandatory work-study programs. All full-time students must work at least 160 hours per semester in roles such as janitorial staff, office assistant, tutor, or cafeteria worker. Students from 108 counties in Central Appalachia (Kentucky, Ohio, Tennessee, Virginia, West Virginia) receive tuition-free education through the Appalachian Leaders College Scholarship. The college does not receive direct state or federal funding but accepts federal Pell Grants and other aid. Average student debt upon graduation is approximately $6,500, well below national averages.
The 175-acre rural campus houses approximately 600 students in gender-separated dormitories with average annual housing costs of $1,900. The college requires professional dress on central campus until 2 p.m. on Tuesdays and during convocation programs. Located in Knott County, a dry county, alcoholic beverages are prohibited. While not religiously affiliated, the college emphasizes Christian values and offers religion coursework. The renowned "Voices of Appalachia" choir, formed in 1962, performs annually and has appeared on NBC's Today and CBS News Sunday Morning.
Alice Lloyd competes in 15 intercollegiate sports as the Eagles, competing in the NCCAA Division I Mid-East Region and as an independent in the Continental Athletic Conference (NAIA) since 2025–26. The women's basketball team won the first national championship in school history at the 2021 NCCAA National Tournament. Notable alumni include Carl D. Perkins, a U.S. House member (1949–1984).