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 • Nampa, ID & Redding, CA
When students choose between Simpson University and Northwest Nazarene University, they're comparing two small private Christian institutions serving similar populations. Both schools cost around $26,000/year and produce graduates earning in the low-$50,000 range.
But Simpson graduates only 42% of its students while Northwest Nazarene graduates 60% — a critical difference that changes the real value calculation for families investing in these degrees.
Median Student Debt at Graduation
$23,750
federal loans
$18,750
federal loans
Median Parent PLUS Loans
$18,696
borrowed by parents
$19,112
borrowed by parents
Simpson University is psychology-focused with 21% of graduates in business programs, while Northwest Nazarene University concentrates on business (24%) alongside arts (8%) and education (7%). Simpson's largest programs include Psychology (59 graduates), Business Administration (45), and Nursing (35).
Northwest Nazarene's top programs feature Nursing (44 graduates), Business Administration (39), and Biology (27). These program mixes help explain the modest earnings differences between institutions.
For students prioritizing completion likelihood, Northwest Nazarene University offers the better odds with a 60% graduation rate versus Simpson's 42%. Northwest Nazarene also costs $2,386/year less, making it more accessible for families.
Simpson provides higher earnings for those who complete and demonstrates stronger institutional effectiveness in boosting graduate outcomes beyond expectations — but the completion risk undermines its value proposition. The data points to Northwest Nazarene as the more reliable investment, offering reasonable outcomes with better completion odds and lower cost.
The choice depends on your confidence in degree completion and tolerance for financial risk.
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.
