Simpson University

Simpson University is a nonprofit Christian liberal arts university on a residential campus in Redding, Northern California. Its size and faith-centered approach shape both classroom and campus life: students describe close contact with professors and a supportive community, while chapel, spiritual formation and Bible-rooted general education are part of the university’s identity. That environment can be a strong fit for students who want their studies and faith to meet in the same setting. It may be less suitable for someone seeking a secular campus culture, so visit and ask how required activities and courses fit your program.

Programs: from nursing and engineering to ministry

Simpson lists more than 20 undergraduate majors, including nursing, biology, business administration, engineering, psychology, social work, music, communication and digital media, and outdoor adventure recreation. It also offers associate degrees, degree-completion pathways for adults, teacher education and graduate study. The A.W. Tozer Theological Seminary adds ministry and theological degrees. Nursing applicants should check the current prerequisites, clinical requirements and program approval details; transfer students should have their prior credits evaluated before comparing time to graduation. Browse the undergraduate majors directory and contact the relevant department about current availability and entry requirements.

Tuition, scholarships and aid

For 2026–27, the university estimates traditional undergraduate tuition at $40,336 for the year, with $56,808 as the full-time on-campus estimate when basic registration, housing and meals are included. Nursing has additional tuition and clinical charges, and course-specific fees, books and personal expenses can raise the actual total. Simpson offers merit, need-based, music, athletic and ministry-related awards. One local option is the North State Promise: eligible incoming traditional undergraduates who live in Northern California receive a 50% tuition discount. It cannot be combined with other Simpson scholarships, so compare the complete award letter rather than adding advertised awards together. The university participates in federal aid; submit the FAFSA and review deadlines and renewal conditions with its Financial Aid Office. Check the current tuition and fee tables before budgeting.

Campus and visiting

Main campus: 2211 College View Drive, Redding, CA 96003; telephone (530) 224-5600. The campus includes student housing, dining, a library and the Betty M. Dean School of Nursing facilities. Tozer Theological Seminary is part of the Simpson campus. Google Maps currently lists the main campus as open Monday through Friday, 9 a.m.–5 p.m., and closed weekends; these are the listed campus hours, not a guarantee that every office is open throughout that period. Simpson schedules campus visits by appointment: its “Day in the Life” visits start at 8:30 a.m. on Wednesdays and Fridays, while personalized two-hour visits are offered Tuesday through Saturday. Reserve a visit or begin an application through the university’s visit and admissions page.

What students say—and what to ask

Many student accounts point to a tight-knit community, personal relationships with instructors and meaningful clinical experiences in nursing. Students who value outdoor recreation also appreciate Redding’s access to trails and natural areas. On the other hand, reviews raise concerns about financial-aid administration, housing and dining, uneven course experiences, and the cost of a private university. Experiences differ by cohort and degree, so ask current students in your intended major about advising, registration, clinical placements and how quickly aid questions are resolved. The university’s chapel and Christian curriculum are central features, not optional background details. Read a broader range of student reviews alongside the official program and net-cost information.