Head-to-Head Analysis
This analysis was generated using Azimuth's proprietary framework. Our data model transforms federal education data into actionable insights. Learn about founder Daniel Rogers, explore our research methodology, or see how we think about this data.
Updated January 2026 • Aston, PA & Boston, MA
When students choose between Simmons University and Neumann University, they're comparing two small private schools with health program focus. Both emphasize nursing and allied health fields, but the completion data reveals a stark difference.
Simmons graduates 71% of students while Neumann graduates just 46%. The costs are similar — Simmons at $27,313/year versus Neumann's $28,714 — making the graduation gap the decisive factor for most families.
Median Student Debt at Graduation
$27,000
federal loans
$24,840
federal loans
Median Parent PLUS Loans
$33,530
borrowed by parents
$23,772
borrowed by parents
Both schools emphasize health programs as their dominant family. At Simmons, nursing leads with 176 graduates annually, followed by sports science and communications.
Neumann also centers on nursing with 79 graduates, but offers a broader mix including liberal arts (67 graduates) and homeland security programs (39). Simmons shows more specialized health focus while Neumann provides more general education options.
These program concentrations help explain career outcomes for graduates who complete their degrees.
For students prioritizing completion odds, Simmons University delivers substantially higher graduation rates at only $1,401/year more than Neumann. Neumann offers broader program diversity and serves students who earn beyond demographic expectations when they complete — making it viable for highly motivated students comfortable with completion risk.
The data points to Simmons as the safer investment, particularly for health program students where degree completion directly impacts career access. If you're confident in your academic preparation and drawn to Neumann's specific programs, the completion risk may be manageable.
But for most families, Simmons's 71% graduation rate versus Neumann's 46% makes it the stronger choice.
Key Takeaway
The numbers are close, but the best school depends on your goals, values, and career aspirations.
This comparison was generated using Azimuth's proprietary ROI framework, developed by founder Daniel Rogers. Our methodology transforms federal education data into actionable insights for families.
This comparison uses Azimuth's proprietary ROI model based on U.S. Dept. of Education data. View Full Methodology.
This content is for educational and informational purposes only and should not be construed as financial, investment, or professional advice. Consult a qualified advisor before making any financial decisions.
College Azimuth is a private research initiative and is not affiliated with the U.S. Department of Education or Federal Student Aid.
