Simpson Earns High Rating in Money’s Best Colleges in America 2023

Simpson College is once again recognized among the top colleges in the country, earning 4.5 out of 5 stars in Money’s Best Colleges in America 2023 ratings. Simpson’s lofty standing is based on the analysis of more than 700 four-year colleges with regards to quality, affordability and student outcomes.

Quality scores were calculated based on a variety of factors including graduation rates, instructor access and the academic profile of the college’s entering first-year students. Affordability factors featured net price of a degree and amount of college debt, as well as the ability to repay debt. Outcomes analysis factored in College Scorecard employment outcomes, earnings 10 years after college entry and return on investment.

“Our high rating in Money’s Best Colleges reaffirms the tremendous value of a Simpson education,” said Marsha Kelliher, president. “Our enduring commitment to providing affordable excellence in practical, experience-based liberal arts learning is resonating strongly in the marketplace, as evidenced by significant gains in our first-year enrollment and retention.”

Every full-time Simpson student receives financial aid, with total awards reaching nearly $50 million last year. This includes The Simpson Promise, which covers the full cost of tuition for qualified students from Iowa whose family’s adjusted gross income is at or below $60,000.

The latest Simpson Student Destination Report reveals impressive placement rates for the Class of 2022. Of those holding bachelor’s degrees, 94 percent were employed or attending graduate school within six months of graduation. Additionally, for the sixth consecutive year, 100 percent of master’s degree recipients were employed.

“Simpson’s strong track record of success reflects not only the quality of our students, but also the dedication of talented faculty and staff who are personally invested in ensuring that all students here reach their full potential,” said Kelliher. “It’s extremely gratifying to see how we are transforming lives to help transform the world.”

Prior to this year’s debut of its star rating system, Money provided a numbered ranking of schools. In 2022, Simpson was recognized by Money as the #1 value in Iowa while being ranked among the top 15 percent of colleges nationally.