Life at Simpson

When you live and learn at Simpson College, you become part of a vibrant, welcoming, and inclusive community.

Right Where You Belong

Our 85 acres will become your home: the classic academic buildings, the vibrant residence halls, the beautiful campus grounds. As you make your way to class, to practice, to meals, and to club meetings, you’re bound to see familiar and friendly faces. 

The Kent Campus Center—affectionately known as Simpson’s living room—is a hub of activity. Hosting a range of student services offices, it’s also an entertainment venue and a prime location for hundreds of events each year. The reimagined Dunn Library is a popular gathering spot, full of bright and airy spaces for independent or collaborative study. 

Spaces like these are where you’ll grow, discover, learn from mistakes, and challenge yourself—all with plenty of peer and professional support along the way.

SC Pov Promo graphic

Immerse yourself in the vibrant lives of first-year students at Simpson!

Experience an abundance of views and envision your future bright at Simpson. Your perspective starts here!

Experience Our Campus, Our City & Our Region

It’s the best of both worlds. On campus or off, there’s plenty to keep you busy at and around Simpson.

Mary Berry campus background
20 min

from downtown Des Moines

340+

organized each year by the Campus Activities Board, from Bingo Night to day trips

Living on Campus

The Simpson campus is like a small town in itself, complete with cool neighborhoods. You’ll find places to eat, spaces to live, and spots for gathering—like a bonfire pit and library books.
Picken Hall

Housing Options

Traditional residence hall rooms. Theme homes. Greek houses. Apartments and suites. No matter where you stay on campus, you’ll make lifelong friends and lasting memories. We’ll even help you move in.

Explore Residence Life
Subconnect Eating

Dining on Campus

Enjoy three chef-created meals a day at Pfeiffer Dining Hall, or grab a quick bite to eat at Tyler’s Grille or SubConnection. Stop into Millie’s for a morning cuppa or fuel for a late-night study session. 

See Dining Locations
Chemistry Club at OrgFest

Clubs & Organizations

Simpson has an incredibly engaged student body. With more than 50 student-led clubs, you’ll find one (or several) that match your passions. Student media and performance groups let your skills and talents shine on the page and stage.

View Campus Orgs

Sports & Recreation

In addition to Storm Athletics—which encompasses 23 varsity sports, plus spirit teams—you can get in a little friendly competition with intramurals. You’ll also have access to an on-campus fitness center and plenty of outdoor activities nearby.

Visit Storm Athletics

Student Support & Resources

Living on campus goes beyond where you’ll eat, sleep, and chillax. The residential experience encompasses all aspects of your everyday life.

Health, Wellness & Safety

Your safety and well-being is our top priority. Students have access to health services, confidential counseling resources, and safety training programs. Our campus is patrolled 24/7.

Students working out in the Simpson College fitness center

Belonging at Simpson

We’re committed to creating a welcoming, culturally enriched campus. Our Office of Diversity, Equity & Inclusion provides support and resources for students and employees. A variety of student-led organizations encourage and foster belonging.

Religious Life & Campus Ministry

Smith Memorial Chapel offers a sacred space to gather, from mass to meditation. Our student-led Religious Life Community welcomes people of all faiths who want to explore or reconnect with their spiritual side.

Life happens. We’re here. Contact us with questions.