| Course Level: | Master's | |
|---|---|---|
| Course Program: | Education & Teaching | |
| Course Duration: | 2 Years | |
| Course Language: | English | |
| Required Degree | 4 Year Bachelor’s Degree | |
| Course Level: | Master's | |
|---|---|---|
| Course Program: | Law & Legal Studies | |
| Course Duration: | 2 Years | |
| Course Language: | English | |
| Required Degree | 4 Year Bachelor’s Degree | |
Location: Indianola, Iowa, approximately 12 miles south of Des Moines, the capital city of Iowa.
Type: Private Liberal Arts College
Religious Affiliation: United Methodist Church
Campus Size: 85 acres
Student Population: Approximately 1,300 undergraduate and graduate students
Motto: "Success, The Simpson Way"
Simpson College provides a strong liberal arts education combined with career preparation. The college offers more than 80 undergraduate majors, minors, and pre-professional programs, as well as graduate and continuing education programs.
Undergraduate Majors:
Popular programs include:
Business Administration
Accounting
Criminal Justice
Education
Psychology
Biology
Computer Science
Political Science
Arts and Music
Environmental Science
Graduate Programs:
Master of Arts in Criminal Justice
Master of Arts in Teaching (MAT)
Master of Arts in Organizational Leadership
Pre-Professional Programs:
Pre-Medicine
Pre-Law
Pre-Dentistry
Pre-Engineering
Pre-Pharmacy
Experiential Learning:
Internship programs, research opportunities, study abroad experiences, and service-learning are key components of the education at Simpson.
Student-Faculty Ratio: 11:1
Small class sizes allow for personalized attention and mentoring from faculty.
Simpson College offers a lively campus community with a variety of activities, organizations, and events to enrich students' college experiences.
Student Organizations:
Over 70 clubs and organizations, including academic societies, cultural groups, service organizations, and special-interest clubs.
Greek Life: Fraternities and sororities are active on campus, providing leadership, service, and social opportunities.
Popular organizations include:
Simpson Student Government Association
Simpson College Sustainability Club
Performing arts groups
Events and Activities:
Regular campus events like movie nights, concerts, intramural sports, and theater performances.
Stormathon: A dance marathon fundraiser for local charities.
Diversity and Inclusion:
Simpson strives to create an inclusive environment, celebrating diversity through cultural events, student groups, and campus-wide initiatives.
Athletic Teams Name: Simpson College Storm
Division: NCAA Division III
Conference: American Rivers Conference (ARC)
Simpson offers 19 varsity sports, including:
Football
Basketball
Soccer
Track & Field
Volleyball
Cross Country
Wrestling
Softball
Baseball
Kent Campus Center: The hub of student life, housing dining facilities, a coffee shop, meeting spaces, and the bookstore.
Cowles Center: Features state-of-the-art classrooms and spaces for lectures and discussions.
Dunn Library: Offers a variety of resources, study spaces, and research assistance.
Blank Performing Arts Center: Home to theater performances and music productions.
Athletic Facilities: Include a fitness center, gymnasiums, and outdoor fields.
Simpson College has a rolling admissions process, meaning applications are accepted throughout the year. The college is moderately selective, making it accessible to a wide range of students.
Undergraduate Admission Requirements:
Completed online application (free to apply).
Official high school transcripts.
Optional ACT/SAT scores (test-optional policy available).
Personal essay (optional but encouraged).
Letters of recommendation (optional).
Graduate Admission Requirements:
Bachelor’s degree from an accredited institution.
Official transcripts from all colleges/universities attended.
Letters of recommendation (program-specific).
Personal statement or essay.
Some programs may require GRE/GMAT scores.
Undergraduate Tuition: $47,158 per year
Room and Board: $10,000–$11,000 per year
Graduate Tuition: Varies by program (approximately $600–$800 per credit hour).
Merit Scholarships: Awarded based on academic performance (amounts range from $10,000 to $25,000 per year).
Need-Based Aid: Available through FAFSA for U.S. students.
International Scholarships: International students are eligible for merit-based scholarships.
Consistently ranked among the top liberal arts colleges in the Midwest by U.S. News & World Report.
Recognized for commitment to student success and engaged learning experiences.
Known for its strong focus on internships and career readiness.
Simpson College has a proud alumni network, with graduates excelling in various fields. Notable alumni include:
George Washington Carver: Renowned agricultural scientist.
Dan Rhodes: Award-winning author and educator.
Fred Foreman: Former U.S. Attorney.
Focus on Experiential Learning: Internship programs, research opportunities, and hands-on learning are central to a Simpson education.
Small Class Sizes: Personalized attention from faculty allows students to thrive academically and personally.
Location: Proximity to Des Moines provides access to internships, networking, and cultural experiences.
Athletics and Extracurriculars: A wide variety of opportunities to get involved and develop leadership skills.
Supportive Community: A welcoming, inclusive environment fosters personal and professional growth.
Simpson College provides over 80 majors, minors, and special programs, focusing on liberal arts education, career preparation, and experiential learning.
Business & Management
Accounting
Business Administration
Economics
Management
Marketing
Natural Sciences & Mathematics
Biology
Chemistry
Environmental Science
Mathematics
Physics
Social Sciences
Criminal Justice
Political Science
Psychology
Sociology
International Relations
Humanities
English
History
Philosophy
Religion
World Languages (Spanish, French, German)
Fine Arts
Art (Studio Art, Graphic Design)
Theatre Arts
Music (Performance, Education, Composition)
Education
Elementary Education
Secondary Education
Physical Education
Special Education
Computer Science & Technology
Computer Science
Data Analytics
Information Systems
Communication
Multimedia Communication
Journalism
Public Relations
Sports Communication
Simpson College offers pre-professional tracks to prepare students for advanced degrees and professional schools:
Pre-Law
Pre-Medicine
Pre-Dentistry
Pre-Engineering
Pre-Pharmacy
Pre-Physical Therapy
Pre-Veterinary Medicine
Pre-Occupational Therapy
Simpson College provides several graduate-level programs tailored to working professionals and individuals seeking advanced education:
Master of Arts in Teaching (MAT)
Designed for individuals pursuing teaching licensure in K-12 education.
Master of Arts in Criminal Justice
Focuses on leadership and advanced knowledge in the criminal justice field.
Master of Arts in Organizational Leadership
Develops leadership skills for careers in business, non-profits, and public service.
Simpson College emphasizes experiential learning through special programs:
Simpson College Honors Program
A rigorous academic program for high-achieving students, featuring interdisciplinary coursework, research opportunities, and leadership development.
Study Abroad Programs
Simpson offers various study abroad opportunities, including programs in London, Germany, and short-term travel courses worldwide.
Internship Programs
Simpson integrates internships into many academic programs, providing real-world experience and professional networking opportunities.
Research Opportunities
Students can collaborate with faculty on research projects in areas like biology, chemistry, and social sciences.
Sustainability Program
A multidisciplinary approach to environmental studies and sustainability.
Simpson College provides programs for working adults, including flexible scheduling and online options:
Degree-Completion Programs:
Designed for adults who want to complete their undergraduate degrees.
Programs include Business Administration, Criminal Justice, and Liberal Studies.
Online and Evening Courses:
Aimed at working professionals seeking flexibility in pursuing higher education.
Simpson offers innovative interdisciplinary programs that combine various fields of study:
Environmental Science
Global Studies
Neuroscience
Sports Administration
For students looking to gain specialized skills, Simpson offers certificate programs in fields such as:
Data Analytics
Digital Media Production
Nonprofit Leadership
Business Communication
Emphasis on Experiential Learning:
Internships, service learning, and research opportunities are integrated into most programs.
Small Class Sizes:
Personalized attention from faculty ensures students receive mentorship and guidance.
Liberal Arts Core Curriculum:
Develops critical thinking, communication, and problem-solving skills across all majors.
Proximity to Des Moines:
Simpson’s location near Iowa’s capital provides access to internships, networking, and career opportunities in industries such as business, government, healthcare, and technology.
Program Name |
Duration |
Tuition Fees Per Year (USD) |
|---|---|---|
|
Accounting |
4 years |
$47,158 |
|
Art (Studio Art, Graphic Design) |
4 years |
$47,158 |
|
Biology |
4 years |
$47,158 |
|
Business Administration |
4 years |
$47,158 |
|
Chemistry |
4 years |
$47,158 |
|
Computer Science |
4 years |
$47,158 |
|
Criminal Justice |
4 years |
$47,158 |
|
Data Analytics |
4 years |
$47,158 |
|
Elementary Education |
4 years |
$47,158 |
|
English (Literature, Creative Writing) |
4 years |
$47,158 |
|
Environmental Science |
4 years |
$47,158 |
|
Global Studies |
4 years |
$47,158 |
|
History |
4 years |
$47,158 |
|
International Relations |
4 years |
$47,158 |
|
Journalism and Multimedia Communication |
4 years |
$47,158 |
|
Management |
4 years |
$47,158 |
|
Marketing |
4 years |
$47,158 |
|
Mathematics |
4 years |
$47,158 |
|
Music (Performance, Education) |
4 years |
$47,158 |
|
Neuroscience |
4 years |
$47,158 |
|
Philosophy |
4 years |
$47,158 |
|
Physics |
4 years |
$47,158 |
|
Political Science |
4 years |
$47,158 |
|
Psychology |
4 years |
$47,158 |
|
Religion |
4 years |
$47,158 |
|
Secondary Education |
4 years |
$47,158 |
|
Sociology |
4 years |
$47,158 |
|
Sports Communication |
4 years |
$47,158 |
|
Sports Administration |
4 years |
$47,158 |
|
Theatre Arts |
4 years |
$47,158 |
|
World Languages (Spanish, French) |
4 years |
$47,158 |
Master’s Program Name |
Duration |
Tuition Fees Per Year (USD) |
|---|---|---|
|
Master of Arts in Teaching (MAT) |
2 years |
~$600 per credit hour |
|
Master of Arts in Criminal Justice (MACJ) |
1-2 years |
~$650 per credit hour |
|
Master of Arts in Organizational Leadership (MAOL) |
1-2 years |
~$650 per credit hour |
Small Class Sizes: The student-to-faculty ratio is 11:1, ensuring personalized attention and support.
Diverse Programs: Offers 80+ undergraduate programs and graduate programs in fields like criminal justice, teaching, and organizational leadership.
Welcoming Community: Simpson fosters an inclusive campus culture, helping international students transition to life in the U.S.
Career Focus: Emphasis on internships and practical experience, with strong ties to nearby Des Moines for job opportunities.
Location: Indianola offers a safe and friendly environment, and its proximity to Des Moines provides access to a growing urban hub.
Scholarships for International Students: Simpson offers merit-based scholarships to help offset tuition costs for international students.
1. Application Process
International students must complete the following steps to apply:
Submit the online application through the Simpson College website or the Common Application.
Pay the non-refundable $50 application fee.
2. Submit Academic Records
Official high school transcripts (or equivalent for undergraduate applicants).
For graduate programs, official transcripts from all colleges/universities attended.
All transcripts must be translated into English and evaluated (if necessary) by an approved agency such as WES (World Education Services) or ECE (Educational Credential Evaluators).
3. English Language Proficiency
International students must provide proof of English proficiency through one of the following tests:
TOEFL (iBT): Minimum score of 79
IELTS: Minimum score of 6.0
Duolingo English Test: Minimum score of 105
Students who have studied in an English-medium institution may be eligible for a waiver.
4. Financial Documentation
Submit the Financial Certification Form to demonstrate sufficient funds to cover tuition, living expenses, and other fees.
Provide supporting documents such as bank statements or sponsorship letters.
5. Optional Supporting Documents
Personal Essay: Highlighting your academic goals, career aspirations, and why you want to study at Simpson College.
Letters of Recommendation: While not required, these can strengthen your application.
6. I-20 Form and Visa
Upon acceptance, Simpson College will issue the I-20 form, which is required to apply for an F-1 student visa.
Students must pay the SEVIS fee and attend a visa interview at a U.S. embassy or consulate.
1. Submit Your Application
Complete the online application through one of the following platforms:
Simpson College Application Portal (available on the college website).
Common Application.
There is no application fee for undergraduate students.
2. Submit Academic Records
Provide official high school transcripts.
These transcripts must include your grades, GPA, and course details.
International students may need to submit transcripts that are translated into English and evaluated by credential evaluation services like WES (World Education Services) or ECE (Educational Credential Evaluators).
3. Optional Standardized Test Scores
Simpson College is test-optional, meaning you are not required to submit SAT/ACT scores unless you choose to.
SAT Code: 6650
ACT Code: 1352
If you choose to submit scores, the recommended ranges are:
SAT: 1080–1250
ACT: 21–27
4. English Language Proficiency (for International Students)
Non-native English-speaking students must provide proof of English proficiency. Accepted tests and minimum scores:
TOEFL (iBT): Minimum score of 79
IELTS: Minimum score of 6.0
Duolingo English Test: Minimum score of 105
Students who have studied in English-medium schools may be eligible for a waiver.
5. Additional Documents (Optional)
Personal Essay: A 250-500 word essay about your academic goals, career aspirations, or why you want to attend Simpson College. This is optional but strongly encouraged.
Letters of Recommendation: While not required, letters from teachers, counselors, or mentors can strengthen your application.
6. Application Deadlines
Simpson College follows a rolling admissions policy, which means applications are accepted year-round for both fall and spring intakes.
Fall Semester: Classes start in August.
Spring Semester: Classes start in January.
1. Choose a Program
Simpson College offers three graduate programs:
Master of Arts in Teaching (MAT)
Master of Arts in Criminal Justice (MACJ)
Master of Arts in Organizational Leadership (MAOL)
2. Submit Your Application
Complete the online graduate application through Simpson College's website.
Pay a $35 application fee (non-refundable).
3. Submit Academic Records
Provide official transcripts from all colleges and universities attended.
A minimum GPA of 3.0 on a 4.0 scale is recommended for most graduate programs.
4. Program-Specific Requirements
Some graduate programs may require additional documents:
MAT Program:
Teaching licensure (if applicable).
Statement of purpose outlining your teaching goals.
MACJ Program:
Resume detailing your professional and academic experience.
Letters of recommendation (2-3) from academic or professional references.
MAOL Program:
Statement of purpose outlining your leadership aspirations.
Letters of recommendation (2-3).
5. English Language Proficiency (for International Students)
Similar requirements as undergraduate applicants (TOEFL, IELTS, or Duolingo scores).
6. Application Deadlines
Graduate programs typically have rolling admissions, but it is recommended to apply 3-6 months before the intended start date.
1. Submit the Online Application
Complete the undergraduate or graduate application through the appropriate portal.
2. Submit Academic Records
International students must provide certified copies of transcripts (high school for undergraduates, college/university for graduates).
Transcripts must be translated into English and evaluated by credential evaluation agencies like WES or ECE (if required).
3. English Language Proficiency
Submit proof of English proficiency through one of the accepted tests (TOEFL, IELTS, Duolingo). Waivers may be granted for students from English-speaking countries or those who completed education in English-medium institutions.
4. Submit Financial Documentation
Complete and submit the Financial Certification Form to demonstrate that you have the financial resources to cover tuition, living expenses, and other costs.
Supporting documents (e.g., bank statements, sponsorship letters) are required.
5. Visa Application
Upon admission, Simpson College will issue the I-20 form, which is needed to apply for an F-1 student visa.
Pay the SEVIS fee and schedule a visa interview at a U.S. embassy or consulate.
Simpson College follows a rolling admissions policy, which means applications are accepted year-round. However, there are specific start dates for different programs:
Intake |
Application Period |
Start Date |
Programs Available |
|---|---|---|---|
|
Fall Intake |
Rolling admissions; recommended by March-April |
August |
Undergraduate and Graduate programs. |
|
Spring Intake |
Rolling admissions; recommended by October-November |
January |
Undergraduate and Graduate programs. |
|
Summer Intake |
Program-specific deadlines |
May-June |
Limited programs (e.g., graduate programs like MAT, MACJ). |
International Applicants: It is recommended to apply 3-6 months before the intended start date to allow enough time for visa processing.
The eligibility criteria vary for undergraduate, graduate, and international students. Below are the details:
Academic Requirements:
High School Diploma or Equivalent:
Applicants must have completed secondary school with strong academic performance.
Recommended minimum GPA: 3.0 on a 4.0 scale.
For international students, transcripts must be translated into English and evaluated by services like WES (World Education Services) or ECE (Educational Credential Evaluators) (if required).
English Language Proficiency (for International Students):
International students whose native language is not English must demonstrate proficiency through one of the following:
TOEFL (iBT): Minimum score of 79
IELTS: Minimum score of 6.0
Duolingo English Test: Minimum score of 105
English proficiency waivers may be available for students who studied in English-medium institutions.
Optional Standardized Test Scores:
Simpson College is test-optional, so submitting SAT/ACT scores is not required.
However, submitting scores can strengthen your application.
Recommended SAT Range: 1080–1250
Recommended ACT Range: 21–27
Other Supporting Documents (Optional):
Personal Essay: A 250-500 word statement about your goals, achievements, and reasons for choosing Simpson College.
Letters of Recommendation: Academic or personal references are encouraged but not mandatory.
Simpson College offers graduate programs such as:
Master of Arts in Teaching (MAT)
Master of Arts in Criminal Justice (MACJ)
Master of Arts in Organizational Leadership (MAOL)
Bachelor’s Degree: A completed undergraduate degree from an accredited institution is required.
Recommended minimum GPA: 3.0 on a 4.0 scale (varies by program).
MAT Program:
Designed for individuals pursuing teaching licensure in K-12 education.
A personal statement about your teaching philosophy may be required.
MACJ Program:
Aimed at individuals in the criminal justice field.
Professional resume required.
MAOL Program:
Focused on leadership and organizational skills.
Letters of recommendation and a statement of purpose may be required.
International applicants must meet the same English proficiency requirements as undergraduate students:
TOEFL (iBT): Minimum score of 79
IELTS: Minimum score of 6.0
Duolingo English Test: Minimum score of 105
While not required for all programs, prior professional experience is beneficial, particularly for the MACJ and MAOL programs.
International students must meet the following additional requirements for both undergraduate and graduate programs:
High school or college transcripts must be certified and translated into English (if applicable).
Credential evaluation may be required (e.g., WES, ECE).
TOEFL, IELTS, or Duolingo scores are mandatory unless you qualify for an English proficiency waiver (e.g., if you attended an English-medium institution).
Submit a Financial Certification Form demonstrating the ability to cover tuition, living expenses, and fees for at least one academic year.
Supporting documents, such as bank statements or sponsorship letters, are required.
Once admitted, international students will receive an I-20 form to apply for an F-1 student visa.
Students must pay the SEVIS fee and complete a visa interview at a U.S. embassy or consulate.
Ranking Source |
Category |
Ranking/Rating |
|---|---|---|
|
U.S. News & World Report |
Regional Colleges (Midwest) |
Top 15 |
|
U.S. News & World Report |
Best Value Schools (Regional – Midwest) |
Top 10 |
|
U.S. News & World Report |
Top Performers on Social Mobility (Midwest) |
Top 15 |
|
Niche Rankings |
Best Colleges for Criminal Justice in the U.S. |
Top 150 |
|
Niche Rankings |
Best Liberal Arts Colleges in the U.S. |
Top 300 |
|
Forbes |
America's Top Colleges |
Ranked |
|
College Factual |
Best Colleges for Teacher Education |
Top 15% Nationwide |
|
QS World University Rankings |
Not ranked globally (regional focus) |
N/A |
Scholarship Name |
Eligibility Criteria |
Award Amount (USD) |
Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
|
Merit-Based Scholarships |
Based on high school GPA, academic performance, and standardized test scores (optional). |
$10,000–$25,000 per year |
Automatically awarded upon admission; renewable for up to 4 years. |
|
Presidential Scholarship |
Exceptional academic achievement; typically requires a high GPA. |
Up to $25,000 per year |
Competitive scholarship for top-performing students; renewable. |
|
Trustee Scholarship |
Strong academic achievement and leadership skills. |
Up to $20,000 per year |
Automatically considered upon admission; renewable for up to 4 years. |
|
Dean’s Scholarship |
Good academic performance and involvement in extracurricular activities. |
$15,000–$18,000 per year |
Automatically awarded based on admission application. |
|
Talent-Based Scholarships |
For students excelling in music, theater, arts, or athletics. Requires an audition, portfolio, or coach recommendation. |
up to $5,000–$10,000 per year |
Renewable based on continued participation and performance in the relevant program. |
|
Music Scholarships |
Awarded to students pursuing degrees or involvement in music-related activities. Audition required. |
up to $5,000 per year |
Renewable; requires active participation in Simpson’s music programs. |
|
Theater Scholarships |
For students involved in theater programs; audition or portfolio required. |
up to $3,000 per year |
Requires active participation in Simpson’s theater productions. |
|
Athletic Scholarships |
Awarded to student-athletes competing in NCAA Division III sports. |
N/A |
Determined by Simpson’s athletic department; renewable based on athletic participation. |
|
United Methodist Scholarship |
For students affiliated with the United Methodist Church. |
typically $1,000 per year |
Proof of church affiliation required. |
|
Phi Theta Kappa Scholarship |
For transfer students who are members of the Phi Theta Kappa Honor Society. |
$2,000 per year |
Must maintain good academic standing; renewable. |
|
Diversity and Inclusion Scholarship |
For students from underrepresented backgrounds. |
up to $3,000 per year |
Additional essay or interview may be required. |
|
International Student Scholarships |
Based on academic merit; available to international students. |
$10,000–$25,000 per year |
Automatically awarded upon admission; renewable for up to 4 years. |
|
Need-Based Financial Aid |
Based on FAFSA application (for U.S. students only). |
N/A |
Award amount depends on demonstrated financial need. |
|
Legacy Scholarship |
For students with a parent or grandparent who attended Simpson College. |
$1,000 per year |
Renewable for up to 4 years. |
|
External Scholarships |
Scholarships from private organizations and foundations. |
N/A |
Students are encouraged to apply for external scholarships to supplement Simpson awards. |
Accommodation Type |
Room Type |
Features and Amenities |
Cost Per Year (USD) |
|---|---|---|---|
|
Freshman Residence Halls |
Double Room (Shared) |
Fully furnished, Wi-Fi, study lounges, laundry facilities, community kitchen, air-conditioning. |
$4,400–$5,000 per semester ($8,800–$10,000 per year) |
|
|
Single Room |
Limited availability; private room with shared common areas. |
$5,400 per semester ($10,800 per year) |
|
Upperclassmen Residence Halls |
Suite-Style Rooms |
Two or more rooms sharing a common living area and bathroom; Wi-Fi, furnished. |
$5,200–$5,800 per semester ($10,400–$11,600 per year) |
|
|
Apartment-Style Housing |
Private bedrooms, shared kitchen, bathroom, and living space; fully furnished. |
$5,800–$6,000 per semester ($11,600–$12,000 per year) |
|
Theme Houses |
Private or Shared Rooms |
Unique living arrangements for students interested in themed communities (e.g., sustainability, honors housing). |
$5,200–$6,000 per semester ($10,400–$12,000 per year) |
|
Off-Campus Housing (Nearby) |
Shared Apartments |
Apartments or houses near campus; typically includes private or shared bedrooms. |
~$600–$1,200 per month (varies by unit and location) |
|
Summer Housing |
Shared Rooms |
Limited summer housing available for students enrolled in summer courses or internships. |
~$1,500 per term |
1. Campus Community and Culture
Close-Knit Community: Simpson College has a small student body (~1,300 students), creating a warm and supportive campus culture where students form meaningful relationships with peers, faculty, and staff.
Inclusivity and Diversity: The college values diversity and inclusion, fostering a campus environment that welcomes students from all cultural, religious, and socioeconomic backgrounds.
Student-Faculty Relationships: With a 11:1 student-to-faculty ratio, students receive personalized attention and mentoring from professors.
2. Clubs and Organizations
Simpson offers over 70 student clubs and organizations to cater to a variety of interests. These include:
Academic and Professional Organizations:
Pre-Law Society
Biology Club
Accounting Club
Computer Science Club
Cultural and Diversity Groups:
International Student Association (ISA)
Black Student Union (BSU)
Latinx Club
Service and Volunteer Organizations:
Rotaract Club
Simpson College Sustainability Club
Special Interest Clubs:
Dance Team
E-sports and Gaming Club
Outdoor Adventure Club
Greek Life: Simpson College has fraternities and sororities that emphasize leadership, academic achievement, and community service.
3. Athletics and Recreation
NCAA Division III Athletics: Simpson’s athletic teams, known as the Simpson Storm, compete in the American Rivers Conference.
Popular sports include football, basketball, soccer, baseball, volleyball, track and field, and wrestling.
Students can join varsity, club, or intramural sports teams.
Intramural Sports and Recreation:
Offers a fun way for students to stay active, with activities like flag football, volleyball, dodgeball, and ultimate frisbee.
Fitness Facilities:
Simpson’s campus includes a fitness center, gymnasium, outdoor fields, and indoor courts, providing students with access to exercise and recreational activities.
4. Arts and Culture
Performing Arts:
Simpson College has a thriving arts scene, with opportunities in theater, music, and dance.
Students can participate in:
Choirs and vocal ensembles
Instrumental groups (e.g., band, jazz ensemble)
Theater productions, including musicals and plays.
Facilities like the Blank Performing Arts Center host regular performances.
Music Opportunities:
Students can pursue music degrees or join ensembles regardless of their major.
Scholarships are available for talented performers.
5. Events and Activities
Simpson College organizes a variety of events throughout the academic year to keep campus life exciting:
Homecoming Week: Includes parades, sports games, and alumni events to celebrate school spirit.
Stormathon: A dance marathon fundraiser supporting local charities.
Cultural Events: Themed dinners, global food festivals, and international weeks celebrate cultural diversity.
Lectures and Guest Speakers: Prominent speakers are invited to campus for discussions on various topics.
Outdoor Adventures: Students enjoy activities like hiking, biking, and camping in nearby parks.
6. Residential Life
On-Campus Housing: Most students live in residence halls, theme houses, or apartments. Living on campus fosters a strong sense of community and connection.
Dining Services: Simpson offers dining halls, cafes, and meal plans with diverse menu options, including vegetarian and gluten-free meals.
7. Internships and Career Development
Proximity to Des Moines: Just 12 miles away, Des Moines provides excellent opportunities for internships and part-time jobs in industries like business, government, healthcare, and nonprofits.
Career Development Services:
Resume workshops, career fairs, and networking events.
Assistance with finding internships and preparing for job interviews.
Alumni mentoring programs to connect students with successful graduates.
Many students complete at least one internship during their time at Simpson, often leading to full-time job opportunities after graduation.
8. Support for International Students
Simpson College is committed to providing a welcoming environment for international students through:
International Student Association (ISA):
Organizes cultural events and helps students transition to life in the U.S.
Dedicated International Advisors:
Help with visa requirements, course registration, and academic success.
Cultural Activities:
Events like International Week and Global Food Night celebrate diversity.
Orientation Program:
A special program designed for international students to familiarize them with campus life, academics, and U.S. culture.
9. Campus Facilities
Kent Campus Center: A central hub for student life, housing dining facilities, study areas, and meeting spaces.
Dunn Library: Offers research resources, group study rooms, and tutoring services.
Blank Performing Arts Center: Hosts theater productions and music performances.
Cowles Fieldhouse: Includes fitness and recreation facilities for students.
Sustainability Features: Simpson emphasizes environmental sustainability, with recycling programs and eco-friendly campus initiatives.
10. Volunteer and Community Engagement
Simpson College emphasizes service and community engagement, encouraging students to get involved in volunteer activities, such as:
Community Service Projects: Local outreach programs, food drives, and fundraising events.
Mission Trips: Organized trips during spring and summer breaks for students interested in community development and service.
11. Proximity to Des Moines
Easy Access to the City:
Students can explore the vibrant city of Des Moines, which offers cultural events, concerts, restaurants, and shopping.
Des Moines is also home to major employers and internship providers in finance, healthcare, technology, and public administration.
12. Health and Wellness
Counseling Services:
Free counseling and mental health support available to all students.
Health Services:
On-campus health facilities and partnerships with local clinics ensure students receive medical care when needed.
Fitness Programs:
Group fitness classes, yoga, and wellness workshops are offered throughout the year.
13. Sustainability Initiatives
Simpson College has a strong commitment to sustainability:
Recycling programs, energy-saving initiatives, and sustainability clubs promote environmental awareness.
Students can participate in the Sustainability Club or projects related to environmental science.
High Placement Rate:
Over 95% of Simpson graduates are employed, pursuing graduate studies, or engaged in service programs (e.g., fellowships, mission trips) within six months of graduation.
This high rate reflects the college’s focus on career readiness and hands-on learning opportunities.
Internships:
80% of Simpson students complete at least one internship during their studies, with many participating in multiple internships.
The proximity to Des Moines provides access to internships in industries like finance, government, healthcare, nonprofits, technology, and media.
Many students secure full-time job offers through their internships.
Top Employers Hiring Simpson Graduates:
Business and Finance:
Wells Fargo
Principal Financial Group
Nationwide Insurance
Bankers Trust
Healthcare:
UnityPoint Health
MercyOne
Iowa Department of Public Health
Government and Public Service:
Iowa Legislature
U.S. Department of Justice
City of Des Moines
Technology:
Microsoft (Des Moines offices)
Cognizant Technology Solutions
IBM
Education and Nonprofits:
Teach for America
AmeriCorps
Local school districts
Arts and Media:
Des Moines Register
WHO-TV
Nonprofit arts organizations in Des Moines
The Career Development & Civic Engagement Office provides extensive resources to help students achieve their career goals:
Career Advising:
Personalized guidance to help students identify career paths based on their strengths, interests, and goals.
Resume and Cover Letter Support:
One-on-one assistance with crafting professional resumes and cover letters.
Mock Interviews:
Practice interviews with feedback to help students build confidence.
Job and Internship Fairs:
Annual career fairs where students connect with employers from various industries.
Simpson hosts events both on campus and in partnership with Des Moines-based employers.
Networking Opportunities:
Alumni networking events help students build professional connections.
Handshake Portal:
An online job and internship platform exclusively for Simpson College students, providing access to hundreds of job postings and employer connections.
Simpson College emphasizes learning by doing, ensuring students are career-ready through:
Internships: Many programs require or strongly encourage internships.
Service-Learning Projects: Hands-on community engagement tied to academic courses.
Capstone Experiences: Final projects or research opportunities that showcase students’ expertise.
Study Abroad Programs: International internships and cultural immersion programs to develop global competencies.
Simpson College also prepares students for graduate or professional school. Graduates have been accepted into top programs at institutions such as:
University of Iowa
Iowa State University
Drake University
Harvard University
University of Chicago
University of Minnesota
Popular fields of advanced study include:
Law
Medicine
Business Administration (MBA)
Public Health
Education
Data Analytics
The acceptance rate of Simpson College, USA, is approximately 81%, making it a moderately selective institution. This means that the college accepts a majority of applicants who meet its academic and admission requirements.
Student-Friendly Admissions Process: Simpson College is committed to providing access to a wide range of students, including those with varying academic backgrounds.
While the acceptance rate is relatively high, the college values academic achievement, leadership skills, extracurricular involvement, and personal character in its admissions decisions.
Programs like music, theater, and athletics may have additional requirements, such as auditions or coach recommendations, which can influence admission decisions.
Simpson College evaluates applications holistically, considering the following:
Academic Performance:
GPA Requirement: A minimum 3.0 GPA on a 4.0 scale is recommended for most programs.
High school transcripts are required for undergraduates, and undergraduate transcripts are needed for graduate applicants.
Standardized Tests (Optional):
Simpson College is test-optional for undergraduate applicants.
SAT/ACT scores are not mandatory but can strengthen your application.
Recommended SAT Range: 1080–1250
Recommended ACT Range: 21–27
English Language Proficiency (For International Students):
TOEFL (79+), IELTS (6.0+), or Duolingo English Test (105+) is required for non-native English speakers.
Extracurricular Activities:
Leadership roles, community service, and participation in clubs or sports can positively impact your application.
Personal Essay and Recommendations (Optional):
Although not required, these documents can enhance your application, especially for competitive scholarships.
While Simpson College has a general acceptance rate of 81%, certain programs may have more rigorous requirements, particularly in fields like:
Music and Theater: Requires auditions or portfolios.
Athletics: Requires coach recommendations for athletic scholarships.
Simpson College
701 North C Street,
Indianola, Iowa, 50125,
United States.
