Simpson University
Acceptance rate
86.0%
2025
Peer median 69.4%
Tuition per year
$39,708
$51,608 with room and board
Peer median $33,770
Undergraduates
820
Student-faculty ratio 17:1
Peer median 11 : 1
Graduation rate
41.4%
4-year; 6-year rate 46.6%
Peer median 45.1%
“Peers” are all 403 private baccalaureate colleges in the U.S. (by Carnegie Classification).
About
Simpson University, located in Redding, California, is a private Christian university known for its commitment to academic excellence and spiritual growth. Founded in 1921, the university emphasizes a holistic approach to education, combining rigorous academics with a strong foundation in Christian values. The university's mission statement highlights its dedication to preparing students for lives of service, leadership, and faith. This mission is reflected in the diverse range of undergraduate and graduate programs offered, including majors in areas such as psychology, business, and theology, as well as a robust nursing program that prepares students for careers in healthcare.
The campus itself is a vibrant community that fosters a supportive and collaborative environment for students. With modern facilities, including state-of-the-art classrooms, laboratories, and recreational areas, Simpson University provides an enriching educational experience. The university also encourages student involvement through various clubs, organizations, and athletic programs, fostering a sense of belonging and camaraderie. The commitment to personal development is evident in the small class sizes, allowing for meaningful interactions between students and faculty. Graduates of Simpson University are well-prepared for the workforce, often finding success in their chosen fields, and many attribute their achievements to the university's strong emphasis on character development and ethical leadership.
Analysis of Key Trends in Simpson University's Data
Simpson University, a private institution, has exhibited notable trends in several key areas over the years. One of the most striking changes has been in tuition costs, particularly for undergraduate students. From 2014 to 2024, the tuition for in-state and out-of-state undergraduate students has seen a significant increase, rising from $23,300 to approximately $38,522. This represents a staggering increase of about 65% over a decade, which may raise concerns regarding affordability and accessibility for prospective students. The rising costs of education reflect a broader national trend where tuition fees continue to outpace inflation, leading to heightened student debt burdens.
Another critical area is the graduation rates. The timely graduation rate has fluctuated but showed an overall positive trend, increasing from around 31.5% in 2013 to approximately 42.1% in 2023. This improvement indicates that more students are completing their degrees within the expected timeframe, which is a positive sign reflecting the university's efforts to enhance student support and academic advising. However, the 150% graduation rate has not shown the same upward trajectory, suggesting that while on-time graduations are improving, longer-term completions remain a challenge.
Retention rates also deserve attention, with a notable decline from around 81% in 2014 to roughly 57% in 2022, before slightly recovering to 64.7% in 2023. This trend indicates potential issues with student satisfaction and support systems, which could impact the university's reputation and future enrollment numbers.
Additionally, the male-to-female ratio in undergraduate enrollment has also changed, with a noticeable increase in male students from 34.3% in 2013 to 40.3% in 2023. This shift may reflect broader societal changes in gender enrollment patterns in higher education.
Overall, while Simpson University has demonstrated improvements in some areas like graduation rates, the rising tuition, declining retention, and changing demographics signal challenges that need to be addressed to maintain a sustainable and inclusive educational environment.
This collegeRanked colleges nearby
- Setting
- Small city
- Nearest major city
- Sacramento, about 150 mi
- Nearest international airport
- Sacramento International Airport (SMF), about 140 mi
- Academic calendar
- Semester
- Religious affiliation
- Christ and Missionary Alliance Church
- President
- Dr. Norman Hall (President)
- Phone
- 5302245600
- City
- Redding, California
- Address
- 2211 College View Drive, Redding, CA 96003-8606
Rankings & Admission
Peer median 69.4% · all 403 private baccalaureate colleges in the U.S.
Acceptance rate by gender, 2025
In 2020: men 52.2%, women 52.4%.
Data insights
Analysis of Admission Trends at Simpson University
The admission data for Simpson University reveals significant trends over the years, reflecting both applicant behavior and institutional changes. Notably, the admission rates for male and female applicants have shown fluctuations, with male admission rates ranging from approximately 47.1% to 66.6% and female rates from about 48.9% to 68.2%. This indicates a generally higher acceptance rate for female applicants, which could be reflective of broader trends in higher education where female enrollment has been increasing.
The number of students enrolled also varied significantly, peaking at 251 in 2009 and dropping to as low as 86 in 2019. This decline raises questions about the university's appeal, potential shifts in recruitment strategies, or broader demographic changes affecting college interest. The rejection rates have also been high, with some years seeing over 500 denials, suggesting that the university may have faced a surge in applications, particularly in 2021, which could be linked to the global pandemic's impact on education.
Interestingly, the deferment of admissions has varied, with a notable peak in 2021 where 659 students were deferred. This could point to the uncertainty caused by the COVID-19 pandemic, where many students chose to delay their college experience.
Overall, these trends highlight the dynamic nature of college admissions, influenced by external factors such as economic conditions and global events. As Simpson University navigates these changes, it will be crucial to adapt its strategies to attract and retain students in an increasingly competitive landscape.
School and Program Rankings
U.S. News school and program rankings · Click a school to see its programs, and a program for its full ranking
Undergraduate Rankings · 2027 edition
Social Sciences and Humanities1 programs—
Ranks in blue are top 10 · ▲▼ change from the previous edition · “—” means no overall ranking for that school · Medical schools are ranked in tiers since the 2025 edition
Test Scores
SAT/ACT not considered, even if submitted IPEDS (US Department of Education) has no recent SAT/ACT data for admitted students here. GPA, course rigor, essays and activities matter more.
Data insights
Analysis of Admission Test Trends at Simpson University
The admission test data from Simpson University from 2007 to 2023 indicates notable trends in both the number of students submitting their SAT and ACT scores, as well as the overall performance levels in these assessments. Over the years, the percentage of admitted students who submitted SAT scores ranged from a high of 91% in 2009 to a low of 61% in the recent years of 2021-2023. This decline in submission rates may reflect changing attitudes towards standardized testing, particularly as many institutions reconsider the necessity of these scores in the admission process.
In terms of performance, the SAT reading and math scores have shown minor fluctuations, with the 25th percentile scores remaining relatively stable over the years, while the 75th percentile scores have occasionally increased. For instance, the 75th percentile for reading and math reached 605 in the most recent years, suggesting that while fewer students are submitting scores, those who do tend to perform at higher levels.
Moreover, the ACT scores exhibit a similar pattern, with the 25th and 75th percentile scores reflecting a competitive academic environment for admitted students. The consistency in high performance suggests that even with fewer submissions, Simpson University is attracting a strong cohort of students.
Overall, these trends indicate a significant shift in the landscape of college admissions, possibly influenced by broader discussions around equity in testing, accessibility, and the holistic review process. As more institutions adopt test-optional policies, universities like Simpson may continue to see changes in their admissions dynamics and applicant profiles in the coming years.
How Hard Is It to Get In
about 9 in 10
823 applicants in 2025, 86.0% admitted
708 admitted 115 not admitted Yield 24.2%
Degrees & Majors
Graduates in 2025 (first major)
U.S. studentsInternational
Popular graduate programs
- Counseling Psychology · Master's25 (0% international)
- Business Administration and Management, General · Master's12 (0% international)
- Education, General · Master's9 (0% international)
- Divinity/Ministry · Master's2 (0% international)
- Human Services, General · Master's2 (0% international)
- Organizational Behavior Studies · Master's2 (0% international)
Data insights
Analysis of Graduation Data at Simpson University
The graduation data for 2023 at Simpson University reveals some interesting trends across various disciplines. Notably, the Registered Nursing program stands out with 53 graduates at the bachelor's level, of which one is an international student. This highlights the strong emphasis on healthcare education, which is critical given the ongoing global demand for healthcare professionals, especially in the wake of the COVID-19 pandemic.
Psychology also demonstrates significant interest, producing 48 bachelor's graduates, alongside a master's program that graduated 16 students. The popularity of psychology can be attributed to the increasing recognition of mental health issues and the need for qualified mental health professionals. This trend is supported by recent news emphasizing the importance of mental health services in society.
On the other hand, programs such as Engineering and Music did not report any graduates for the year, indicating potential challenges in attracting students to these fields. This could reflect broader trends in the job market or student preferences, where more students are gravitating towards healthcare, education, and psychology.
Moreover, the presence of international students, particularly in the areas of Registered Nursing and Psychology, suggests that Simpson University is successful in attracting a diverse student body, which enriches the educational experience. However, the lack of graduates in various master's and doctorate programs across several fields raises questions about the university's offerings and potential areas for growth.
Overall, the data underscores the shifting priorities in higher education, with healthcare and psychology emerging as prominent fields, while more traditional disciplines may need to reevaluate their appeal to prospective students.
All majors, graduates and earnings IPEDS · College Scorecard
*Depends on whether majors have graduates in 2025 or not, Yes / No
**Move mouse on can check deitaled graudates number, click for major detailed information
***Due to privacy policy, graduate salaries are not shown for some majors that has few gradautes
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|
| Psychology, General. | $35,259 | ||
| Counseling Psychology. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|
| Business Administration and Management, General. | $51,522 | ||
| Organizational Behavior Studies. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|
| Registered Nursing/Registered Nurse. | $113,707 |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|
| Liberal Arts and Sciences/Liberal Studies. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|
| Parks, Recreation, and Leisure Studies. | - | ||
| Exercise Science and Kinesiology. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|
| Education, General. | $55,996 | ||
| Mathematics Teacher Education. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|
| Speech Communication and Rhetoric. | - | ||
| Digital Communication and Media/Multimedia. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|
| Biology/Biological Sciences, General. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|
| Bible/Biblical Studies. | - | ||
| Divinity/Ministry. | - | ||
| Theological and Ministerial Studies, Other. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|
| History, General. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|
| Engineering, General. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|
| Human Services, General. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|
| Music, General. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|
| Social Sciences, General. | - |
Students
992 students in 2025 · Undergraduate men to women 52:48 · Freshman retention 60.4%
- Continuing undergraduates 479
- First-year undergraduates 175
- Graduate students 172
- Transfers and others 166
Undergraduate race and ethnicity (820)
Age distribution
Bachelor's
Graduate students
Data insights
Student Demographics at Simpson University in 2023
Simpson University presents a diverse student body in 2023, marked by a significant representation of female students across various categories. Among the incoming freshmen, the percentage of females is notably higher at 54.1%, while the overall population of undergraduate seniors has a striking 61.9% female representation. This trend reflects a broader pattern in higher education, where women have increasingly outnumbered men in many colleges and universities across the United States.
The data further reveals that the transfer students maintain a female majority as well, with 59.2% of them being women. This consistent trend suggests that the university is successfully attracting and retaining female students, which is vital for fostering a balanced and inclusive academic environment.
Moreover, the graduate student demographic showcases an even more pronounced female presence, with 67.6% of graduate students identifying as women. This statistic underscores a critical shift in graduate education, where women are increasingly pursuing advanced degrees, contributing to various fields and industries.
While the data on racial and ethnic backgrounds of these students is incomplete, it is essential to recognize the growing diversity within the student population. Understanding the intersection of gender and race in educational settings can provide insights into the challenges and opportunities that different groups face, especially in the context of ongoing discussions about equity and inclusion in higher education.
As institutions like Simpson University continue to evolve, focusing on diversity and inclusion will be paramount in shaping future educational landscapes. The gender disparities observed in the data highlight the necessity for universities to address and support the unique needs of all students, ensuring equitable access to resources and opportunities.
Analysis of Student Age Composition at Simpson University in 2023
The age distribution of students at Simpson University reveals significant insights into the demographic makeup of the institution. The largest group of undergraduates aged 18-19 accounts for approximately 42.7% of the total undergraduate male population and 49.5% of the total undergraduate female population, indicating that the university attracts a substantial number of traditional-age students.
As students progress into their twenties, the population remains strong, with individuals aged 20-21 comprising about 39.2% of male undergraduates and 38.8% of female undergraduates. This trend suggests that the university successfully retains students into their second year, which can be attributed to academic programs and campus life that foster engagement.
Interestingly, the age group of 22-24 shows a notable increase in graduate students, with both male and female populations represented, indicating that older students are seeking advanced degrees. This could reflect broader trends in higher education where more individuals are returning to school for graduate studies later in life, potentially influenced by changing job markets and the demand for higher qualifications.
However, as we look at older age groups, particularly those over 30, there is a significant decline in the student population. This could point to challenges faced by non-traditional students, such as balancing work and family responsibilities alongside academic pursuits.
Overall, the student age composition at Simpson University illustrates a vibrant mix of traditional and non-traditional students, with a predominance of younger individuals. This demographic diversity enriches the educational experience and reflects broader societal trends in higher education.
International Students
International share over the last 10 years · gray line: median of all 403 private baccalaureate colleges in the U.S.
29 in 2025 · 1.7% in 2016
13 in 2025 · 2.5% in 2016
Data insights
Trends in International Student Enrollment at Simpson University
The data on international student enrollment at Simpson University reveals a fluctuating trend over the years, particularly notable from 2004 to 2023. In the early years, the number of international undergraduate students was quite low, with percentages hovering around 0.41% to 1.66%. However, a significant increase is observed in the most recent year, 2023, where international students constituted 8.37% of the undergraduate population.
This dramatic rise suggests that Simpson University may have implemented effective recruitment strategies or improved its global visibility, making it a more attractive option for international students. The increase in international graduate students is also noteworthy, reaching 15.86% in 2023. This indicates that the university is not only attracting more undergraduate students but also appealing to graduate-level candidates from abroad.
The fluctuating numbers in previous years may reflect broader trends in higher education, including changing immigration policies, global economic conditions, and competition from other institutions. For instance, the COVID-19 pandemic has significantly impacted international student mobility, leading to drops in enrollment in 2020 and 2021 for many universities.
In light of current global events, such as geopolitical tensions and shifts in educational policies, it will be crucial for Simpson University to continue adapting its strategies to sustain this growth in international student enrollment. The increasing diversity within the student body can enrich the educational experience and foster a global community on campus, which is invaluable in today's interconnected world.
Cost
2025 cost per year
$51,608
- Undergraduate tuition
- $39,708
- Room and board
- $11,900
- Graduate tuition
- $20,090
Peer median tuition + room and board $46,780 · all 403 private baccalaureate colleges in the U.S.
Tuition rose 58% from 2016 to 2025; room and board rose 51%.
Finances · fiscal year 2024
Revenue$26.9M
Expenses$27.6M
Average faculty salary · 2025 (9-month equivalent)
Dark gray ticks: median pay for the same rank at all 403 private baccalaureate colleges in the U.S.
Campus Life
Athletics and varsity athletes NAIA · Frontier Conference · California Pacific Conference
Frontier Conference: football
California Pacific Conference: basketball, baseball, cross country
| NAIA Division II | MEN | WOMEN |
|---|---|---|
| Football | 108 | - |
| Baseball | 68 | - |
| Soccer | 30 | 35 |
| Wrestling | 36 | 21 |
| Basketball | 30 | 19 |
| Softball | - | 37 |
| Volleyball | 16 | 19 |
| Golf | 17 | 7 |
| Track and Field (Outdoor) | 10 | 8 |
| Cross Country | 5 | 5 |
| Beach Volleyball | - | 10 |
| Swimming | 4 | 5 |
| Other Sports | - | - |
| NAIA Division II | MEN | WOMEN |
|---|---|---|
| Football | 121 | - |
| Soccer | 33 | 24 |
| Wrestling | 30 | 19 |
| Softball | - | 36 |
| Volleyball | 20 | 16 |
| Baseball | 31 | - |
| Basketball | 15 | 15 |
| Track and Field (Outdoor) | 10 | 9 |
| Golf | 11 | 4 |
| Beach Volleyball | - | 12 |
| Cross Country | 4 | 6 |
| Swimming | 5 | 1 |
| Other Sports | - | - |
| NAIA Division II | MEN | WOMEN |
|---|---|---|
| Baseball | 72 | - |
| Football | 56 | - |
| Soccer | 25 | 24 |
| Wrestling | 30 | 13 |
| Volleyball | 19 | 19 |
| Basketball | 15 | 19 |
| Softball | - | 29 |
| Track and Field and Cross Country (combined) | 5 | 6 |
| Golf | 8 | 3 |
| Swimming | 3 | 3 |
| Other Sports | - | - |
Nearby & Safety
Ranked colleges nearby
-
University of California-DavisDavis · 146.6 mi
U.S. News #34
-
University of Nevada-RenoReno · 152.2 mi
U.S. News #219
-
University of California-BerkeleyBerkeley · 189.5 mi
U.S. News #20
-
University of the PacificStockton · 189.9 mi
U.S. News #121
-
University of San FranciscoSan Francisco · 196.1 mi
U.S. News #116
-
San Francisco State UniversitySan Francisco · 200.0 mi
U.S. News #227
-
Stanford UniversityStanford · 220.2 mi
U.S. News #5
-
Santa Clara UniversitySanta Clara · 226.6 mi
U.S. News #55
-
University of OregonEugene · 240.1 mi
U.S. News #116
Data insights
Here are some notable schools surrounding Simpson University:
-
Stanford University - Ranked 3rd in the 2024 US News rankings, Stanford is a prestigious research university located in Stanford, California, known for its academic excellence and beautiful campus.
-
University of California-Berkeley - This renowned institution ranks 15th and is recognized for its rigorous academic programs and vibrant campus life in Berkeley, California.
-
University of California-Davis - Ranked 28th, UC Davis is well-known for its research initiatives and strong programs in agriculture, environmental science, and health.
-
University of the Pacific - This university is ranked 142nd and offers a personalized education experience with a focus on liberal arts and professional programs.
-
University of San Francisco - With a rank of 115, USF is known for its commitment to social justice and offers a diverse range of undergraduate and graduate programs.
-
Santa Clara University - This Jesuit university is ranked 60th and is recognized for its strong business and engineering programs, along with a commitment to community service.
-
Oregon State University - Ranked 142nd, OSU is a public research university known for its focus on sustainability and innovation.
-
Reed College - This liberal arts college ranks 67th and is known for its rigorous academics and emphasis on independent study.
These institutions provide a range of educational opportunities and are highly regarded in various fields.
Peer median 8.9 · all 403 private baccalaureate colleges in the U.S.
Incidents, 2023–2025
From the Clery Act campus safety reports schools file, covering on-campus, non-campus and public property.
Data insights
Analysis of Crime Rates at Simpson University
The crime statistics at Simpson University over the past decade reveal notable fluctuations in criminal activity on campus. In 2013, the recorded incidents per 1,000 students were relatively low at 2.47. However, a sharp increase was observed in 2017 with a peak rate of 12.65. This significant rise may raise concerns among students and faculty about safety and security on campus.
The numbers appear to stabilize after 2017, showing a decline in 2018 to 6.20, before fluctuating again in the following years. By 2022, the rate reached 10.47, indicating that while some years saw a decrease, there remains a persistent level of criminal activity that could affect campus life. The data for 2023 reflects a slight drop to 8.24, suggesting either improved safety measures or a natural variation in crime trends.
Particularly noteworthy is the presence of gun-related arrests and alcohol offenses, which, despite being reported, did not seem to dominate the statistics in the earlier years but have become more prominent in the recent data. This pattern reflects a broader trend seen across universities in the United States, where discussions about campus safety and mental health have intensified, especially in light of increasing violent incidents nationwide.
While the overall crime rate remains a critical metric for assessing campus safety, it is essential to consider the context and the university’s response to these challenges. Continuous efforts in crime prevention and community awareness initiatives will be crucial in ensuring a safe educational environment for all students.
For further details on how these crime rates are calculated, please refer to this source: Crime Rate Calculation.
Notable Alumni
Notable alumni of Simpson University include Kathryn Kuhlman (Christian evangelist called a faith healer by the press), Yemi Mobolade (42nd mayor of Colorado Springs) and Archie E. Mitchell (Missionary captured by the Vietcong in 1962).
-
Kathryn Kuhlman 1907–1976
Christian evangelist called a faith healer by the press
-
Yemi Mobolade 1979–
42nd mayor of Colorado Springs
-
Archie E. Mitchell 1918–
Missionary captured by the Vietcong in 1962
-
Brandon Leake 1993–
Spoken word poet, America's Got Talent season 15 winner
References and Data Sources
Data from IPEDS (U.S. Department of Education), U.S. News, THE, QS, ARWU and Clery Act campus safety reports. Data insights are written by the Forward Pathway data team from public data.