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California College of the Arts and Simpson University are both private nonprofit institutions — California College of the Arts in San Francisco, CA and Simpson University in Redding, CA. This page compares published admission, cost, and outcome data from federal sources so you can see the tradeoffs before you add either school to your list.
San Francisco, CA · Private
Acceptance rate: 91.1%
Undergrad enrollment: 990
Tuition: $60,226/year
Student-faculty ratio: 8.0:1
Graduation rate: 61.2%
Top programs: Visual and performing arts, Architecture, Computer science
Best for: Students who want a private campus in San Francisco, CA with published program strength in Visual and performing arts and Architecture.
Redding, CA · Private
Acceptance rate: 86.0%
Undergrad enrollment: 809
Tuition: $39,708/year
Student-faculty ratio: 17.0:1
Graduation rate: 48.8%
Top programs: Health professions, Psychology, Business and marketing
Best for: Students who want a private campus in Redding, CA with published program strength in Health professions and Psychology.
| Factor | California College of the Arts | Simpson University |
|---|---|---|
| Acceptance rate | 91.1% | 86.0% |
| SAT range (middle 50%) |
| Not reported |
| Not reported |
| ACT range (middle 50%) | Not reported | Not reported |
| Undergraduate enrollment | 990 | 809 |
| Out-of-state tuition | $60,226/year | $39,708/year |
| Average net price after aid | $53,909 | $27,817 |
| Graduation rate | 61.2% | 48.8% |
| Median earnings (10 years) | $49,414 | $54,340 |
| Student-faculty ratio | 8.0:1 | 17.0:1 |
| Institution type | Private nonprofit | Private nonprofit |
| Location | San Francisco, CA | Redding, CA |
| Largest program areas | Visual and performing arts, Architecture, Computer science | Health professions, Psychology, Business and marketing |
Simpson University is more selective (86.0% vs 91.1% acceptance rate). Simpson University has a lower average net price after grant aid ($27,817 vs $53,909). California College of the Arts reports the higher graduation rate (61.2% vs 48.8%). California College of the Arts is the larger undergraduate campus (990 students). Use the free side-by-side comparison tool to weigh cost, program fit, location, and outcomes for your own list — and verify deadlines and requirements with each college.
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Common questions when choosing between California College of the Arts and Simpson University
California College of the Arts has an acceptance rate of 91.1%; Simpson University is around 86.0%. Selectivity is only one factor — GPA, essays, major, and residency (for publics) all change the odds.
California College of the Arts tuition is $60,226/year. Simpson University is $39,708/year. Compare net price after aid, not sticker price — especially for private schools and out-of-state publics.
Use College Decider's free comparison tool at /compare — add both schools to see tuition, acceptance rates, graduation outcomes, and more in one table.
Add both schools to our free side-by-side comparison tool — tuition, outcomes, and more.
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