California Aeronautical University
The Vibe Check
California Aeronautical University feels like a professional training ground rather than a traditional liberal arts college, with a focused, career-driven atmosphere. The small, tight-knit community of 383 students creates an environment where everyone knows each other and shares a singular passion for aviation. You will feel immersed in a hands-on, technical learning culture from day one.
Academics & Majors
CAU specializes in aviation programs, offering degrees in professional pilot, aviation maintenance, and aviation management with a strong emphasis on hands-on training. The curriculum is designed to meet FAA standards, and students benefit from direct access to flight simulators and aircraft maintenance labs. While research opportunities are limited, the academic focus is on practical skill mastery and direct career preparation.
Popular Majors
Percentage of degrees awarded by program area ??? Source: US Dept of Education
By The Numbers
Return on Investment
Annual Tuition vs. Median Alumni Salary (10 Years Out)
Student Diversity
Racial & Ethnic Composition of Student Body
Financial Aid & Cost
Source: IPEDS / US Department of Education
Life in Bakersfield
Bakersfield offers a laid-back, suburban lifestyle with a focus on outdoor activities like hiking in the nearby Kern River Canyon and exploring local parks. The city has a vibrant country music scene, a growing food culture, and is close enough for weekend trips to both the Los Angeles area and the Sierra Nevada mountains. Student life at CAU is largely centered around aviation, with limited traditional college party scenes but strong camaraderie among peers.
Local Rent Check
Reality Check
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Post-Grad Monthly Payment
Impact on Est. Salary ($38,361):
0.0% of net income
Safety Check
The campus, located in Bakersfield, is generally considered safe with typical security measures in place for a small private institution. As with any urban area, students should remain aware of their surroundings, especially when traveling off-campus.
Pros & Cons
Pros
- ✓ Highly specialized, career-focused programs in aviation
- ✓ Small class sizes ensure personalized attention from instructors
- ✓ Strong hands-on training with access to aircraft and flight simulators
- ✓ FAA-approved programs that streamline certification processes
Cons
- ✗ Low graduation rate (37.7%) and retention rate (62.1%) are concerningly high
- ✗ Extremely high net price compared to earning potential after graduation
- ✗ Very limited program diversity outside of aviation and related fields
- ✗ Social life is minimal due to the small, commuter-heavy student body
Notable Alumni
Frequently Asked Questions
California Aeronautical University is known for its specialized training in the aviation industry. It offers focused degree programs for aspiring pilots, aircraft maintenance technicians, and aviation managers, with a strong emphasis on practical, hands-on experience to prepare students directly for careers in aviation.
While specific acceptance rate data is not publicly available, CAU's enrollment of only 383 students indicates a highly selective and specialized admissions process. Applicants are typically evaluated on their commitment to an aviation career, and those seeking flight training must pass specific aptitude and medical screenings in addition to standard academic requirements.
Campus life at CAU is quiet, professional, and centered entirely around aviation. With a small student body, the social environment is intimate and focused on studies and career preparation. Students often form strong bonds through shared technical training and flight schedules, but there are few traditional college social activities or large-scale events.
The value of a CAU degree depends heavily on the graduate's career success. The high net price is a significant investment, and the low 10-year median earnings suggest it may take time to see a strong return. However, for students who complete their training and secure well-paying jobs as commercial pilots or certified mechanics, the specialized education can be a worthwhile investment in a lucrative long-term career.
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Calculated based on 10-year ROI, graduation rate, retention, and selectivity.
University Facts
- Founded N/A
- Type Private
- Setting Suburban
- Undergrad 453
- In-State Tuition $35,465
- Zip Code 93308
Gender Ratio
The Money Talk
With an average net price of $38,205 and tuition at $35,465 for all students, CAU is a significant financial investment. However, for a specialized degree in a high-demand field like aviation, the return on investment can be justified if it leads to a stable career as a pilot or aircraft technician. The 10-year median earnings of $38,361 are modest initially, but salaries in aviation can increase substantially with experience and additional certifications.
📅 Typical Deadlines
Dates shown are typical US university deadlines. Always verify with the school.