About Simpson University
Simpson University, California’s only Christian university north of Sacramento, has been educating and shaping world influencers for nearly 100 years. Simpson University was founded in 1921 as Simpson Bible Institute by W.W. Newberry, who served as its first president. Established in Seattle, Washington, the school was named in honor of Albert Benjamin Simpson (1843-1919), a Presbyterian minister who pioneered the Bible institute movement during the late nineteenth century and founded the Christian and Missionary Alliance. Initially offering a two-year program of study, the school was designed to promote spiritual growth and prepare students for Christian life and service, especially overseas. In 1955, the school moved to San Francisco, and then to Redding, California, in 1989.
Fully accredited, Simpson offers liberal arts and professional studies degrees, an adult degree-completion program, graduate studies, and credential programs, resulting in associate’s, bachelor’s, and master’s degrees and certificates, several of which can be earned online. These online degrees offer adult students many benefits including schedule flexibility and accessibility. Study at anytime and virtually anywhere with courses that are accessible when you want to study with Simpson online degrees. You can even pause lessons when something interrupts your study time.
Accreditation & Licensing
Simpson University is accredited by:
WASC Senior College and University Commission (WSCUC)
Students often mention getting into classes with no waitlist, which can save time to finish. A small student body can also make scheduling simpler term to term.
The pace can be practical for working adults. You can set a plan that fits work and life, then keep moving toward finish without long delays.
Cost still matters in the decision. Some students call out housing prices, so total cost should be part of your plan along with time.
At Simpson University, students can usually get the classes they need without long waits. That lowers registration stress and helps them stay on plan. Small classes also make it easier to get quick help from professors.
Faculty are known for being caring, skilled, and consistent. Students describe support as personal and steady in a close Christian community. Many students know where to turn for help and feel known as people.
Online classes at Simpson use clear blocks. Aspire runs one class at a time in 5-week blocks. Other online courses usually run 7 weeks, Monday through Sunday. Coursework is usually submitted weekly.
Canvas is the platform for online degree-completion courses. The structure supports steady pace and planning. Students can focus on one class in Aspire. Or they can follow a weekly rhythm in 7-week courses. Christian mission is part of the learning experience.
At Simpson University, classes feel personal, not crowded. Small class sizes are a common part of student life. That often means more one-on-one time in class and during coursework. Professors are known for strong subject knowledge and a clear focus on helping students learn.
Teaching is closely tied to the school’s Christian mission. Faith can shape class discussion and personal growth, not just school identity. Students also describe the course pace as flexible and the workload as manageable. With fewer students, getting into needed classes can be easier and more predictable.
Simpson University is a strong fit for students who want a Christian education. Faith is part of daily learning and campus life. Small classes give students more face time with professors. Instructors are caring, skilled, and easy to reach.
Many students get direct one-on-one help, and class access is usually smooth. For online learners, Aspire offers one class at a time in 5-week blocks. This format can make planning easier for busy adults. Some students finish quickly, while others move at a steadier pace over a few years.
That flexibility helps students build a plan that fits work and family life. Cost is an important factor to weigh. Tuition can feel high, and scholarship options may be limited. Academic support from professors is a clear strength, though some school processes may take more follow-through.
Simpson University is a strong fit for students who want a Christian education. Faith is part of daily learning and campus life. Small classes give students more face time with professors. Instructors are caring, skilled, and easy to reach.
Many students get direct one-on-one help, and class access is usually smooth. For online learners, Aspire offers one class at a time in 5-week blocks. This format can make planning easier for busy adults. Some students finish quickly, while others move at a steadier pace over a few years.
That flexibility helps students build a plan that fits work and family life. Cost is an important factor to weigh. Tuition can feel high, and scholarship options may be limited. Academic support from professors is a clear strength, though some school processes may take more follow-through.
Geographic and Educational Overview
Simpson University is located in California
California at a Glance:

Top Majors in California:
Top Incentives in California:
- Cal Grant Program: Up to $12,570 annually
- Middle Class Scholarship: Up to 40% of tuition and fees
- Blue and Gold Opportunity Plan: Full tuition coverage
Top Career Pathways in California:
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- Required Education: BS Environmental Science
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