A few questions adult students should ask when choosing a college -
| Can I complete a degree and have a life too? | Yes, with some planning and determination. Most people have to make adjustments in their schedule to make time for college. Try taking one class to see how it fits in with your other commitments. From there you can adjust your class schedule to meet your needs. Simpson's Evening, Weekend and Graduate program lets you decide when and where you want to take class as well as how many to take at one time. |
| What makes Simpson College Evening, Weekend and Graduate programs unique? |
At the heart of Simpson College is the idea of helping students discover their calling and providing the education needed to live it out while teaching the skills to make this happen. We believe in not only providing degrees, but in helping people lead fulfilling lives as lifelong learners. Each and every student who walks through our door is treated with genuine respect and concern. We view you as a student, a customer, a colleague and a friend. |
| What is the difference between part-time and full-time enrollment? | Six credits taken in any combination within one semester is considered part-time and allows you to be eligible for financial aid. Many students are able to maintain this level of enrollment while working full-time. 12 credits taken in any combination within one semester is considered full-time and requires full-time tuition fees. |
| How long will it take to complete my program? | That depends on a number of factors including how many college credits you have previously earned and how many credits you choose to complete per semester while at Simpson College. Our FASTrack program allows you to take up to 12 credits per semester. An academic advisor can map out a program completion plan for you upon receiving your transcripts. |
| What are the admission requirements? |
In order to receive a degree or certificate from Simpson College, a student must complete all application procedures and be officially accepted by the college. An Admissions Advisor is available to assist you in completing this process: |
| Why do colleges require transcripts? Do I really need transcripts from all my previous schools? | Exchange of transcripts verifies the previous coursework completed by the student. Official transcripts also prove that a student does not have any outstanding financial obligations to a previous college. Transcripts from all previously attended high schools, colleges and technical schools are required. |
| How does credit transfer between colleges? | Simpson College is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission of the North Central Association of Colleges and Schools. Simpson accepts transfer credit from other institutions accredited by the Higher Learning Commission that offer courses leading to an Associate of Arts or Bachelor of Arts degree. Conversely, Simpson College credits are accepted by similarly accredited institutions. |
| Can I get credit for my life and work experience? | Yes! Students who are at least 25 years of age and have fewer than 64 credits may submit a Life Experience Portfolio (LEP) for credit consideration. The LEP allows students to translate work, volunteer, travel, and military experiences into college credit. Life and work experience is evaluated against high academic standards to determine whether they meet the requirements of a particular course or program. A free workshop is offered several times a year to provide a step-by-step demonstration of how to produce a successful portfolio. A total of 24 credits may be awarded, shortening your class time by up to two years and saving $6,600 in tuition. There is a $75 processing fee for portfolio submission. All credits awarded are free of charge. |
| How much is tuition? | For the 2008-09 academic year, undergraduate tuition for part-time students is $275 per credit hour. The audit (non-credit) tuition rate is $175 per credit hour. Graduate tuition is $345 per credit hour. |
| Is financial aid available for adult students? Do I qualify for any assistance? | Students may qualify for any grants and scholarships from federal, state, institutional or private sources. Low-interest education loans are also available to students, many without regard to income. Adult students returning to college should not assume that they will not qualify for financial aid. Take time to complete the FAFSA (Free Application for Federal Student Aid) and talk with a financial aid counselor about your situation. The FAFSA is available online at www.fafsa.ed.gov. In completing this form, the student is automatically an applicant for: • Pell Grant • Federal Supplemental Educational Opportunity Grant (SEOG) • Perkins Loan • Stafford Loan • College Workstudy if applicable |
| How does tuition reimbursement from my employer work? | Students are allowed an interest free loan when their employer will reimburse tuition at the conclusion of the course. Students sign a promissory note to defer tuition payment for up to 45 days after the course ends. A copy of the employer's approval and the promissory note must be submitted to the Business Office on or before the first class meeting. If the full amount is paid within 45 days of the close of the term, the entire amount is interest-free. |
| What if I didn't do well in college previously? | Are you at a different place in your life than you were the last time you enrolled in college? Do you have a stronger motivation to complete your degree? Are you more mature? Are you better at time management? Chances are, school may not have been a high priority during your previous college experience. When awarding admission we consider your past circumstances, recommendations from your current associates and your motivation to finish what you started. For many adults, life and work experience has prepared them to better succeed in college today than they would have in the past. |
| Who teaches the classes? What are the qualifications of your faculty? | At Simpson College, 79% of faculty hold the highest degree possible in their field. Many of our evening and weekend instructors have full-time jobs in the field they are teaching. Both are important to the learning process. This combination of educational qualification and practical experience provide the best possible learning environment in the classroom. |
| Am I too old to do this? Will I be the oldest person in my class? | The average age of students taking courses in Simpson's Evening, Weekend and Graduate program is 34, with ages ranging from 20-70. Never underestimate your ability to learn at any age. We don't. |
| I don't even remember how to write a paper. Is tutoring available for adult students? | Simpson College offers free assistance to all students through the Hawley Academic Resource Center. Trained writing tutors review papers for grammar, spelling, organization and clarity. Hawley Resource Center also helps students with test taking, study skills and problem solving. The most important step is to ask for help as soon as you feel you need it. Don't wait until your class is nearly over or the night before a major paper is due. |
Please call today for an appointment with one of our advisors or request information or an appointment online.
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Ankeny Campus: |
Indianola Campus: Hillman Hall, Room 12 Indianola, IA 50125 Phone 515-961-1614 Fax 515-961-1498 |
West Des Moines Campus: 3737 Westown Pkwy, Ste 2E West Des Moines, IA 50266 Phone 515-223-8842 Fax 515-961-1887 |