California Aeronautical University (CAU) : Overview, Courses, Scholarships & Rankings
About California Aeronautical University
California Aeronautical University sits beside active runways, so learning often starts where the pavement meets the prop. The university is known for hands-on academics in flight, maintenance, and aviation business, backed by a safety-first mindset. Students spend time in simulators, hangars, and tech labs, with advising, tutoring, and wellness services close at hand. It feels practical, focused, and surprisingly personal.
Student life leans tight-knit. You'll see sunrise flights, study sessions that turn into hangar talk, and campus events tied to airfield life. Bakersfield brings big-sky weather, local trails, and a friendly airport community that's easy to plug into. Career prep is woven into daily routines through instructor mentorship, industry visitors, career fairs, and help polishing résumés. The culture is professional but approachable, with milestone celebrations for first solos and a shared pride in moving from classroom to cockpit.
Key Institutional Details
Contact & Profile
Academic & Institutional
Degree Programs & Career Salary Prospects
Explore degree programs offered at California Aeronautical University (CAU) with detailed career prospects, starting salary ranges, and job opportunities in California. See what you can do with your degree and expected earnings after graduation.
Transportation (4)
Logistics Management, Supply Chain and Transportation Systems
49.0102
Airline/Commercial/Professional Pilot and Flight Crew.
(Cert<2y, Cert2y+)
Graduate Career Earnings in California
| SOC Code | Occupation | US National | California Avg | CA vs US |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 53-2011 | Airline Pilots, Copilots, and Flight Engineers | $280,570 | $333,320 | +$52,750 (+18.8%) |
| 53-2012 | Commercial Pilots | $142,960 | $123,970 | -$18,990 (-13.3%) |
49.0104
Aviation/Airway Management and Operations.
(Cert2y+, PostBacCert)
Graduate Career Earnings in California
| SOC Code | Occupation | US National | California Avg | CA vs US |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 11-3071 | Transportation, Storage, and Distribution Managers | $116,010 | $113,770 | -$2,240 (-1.9%) |
Mechanics (2)
Automotive Technology, Equipment Repair and Maintenance
47.0607
Airframe Mechanics and Aircraft Maintenance Technology/Technician.
(Cert<2y, Assoc)
Graduate Career Earnings in California
| SOC Code | Occupation | US National | California Avg | CA vs US |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 49-3011 | Aircraft Mechanics and Service Technicians | $80,780 | $75,560 | -$5,220 (-6.5%) |
| 51-2011 | Aircraft Structure, Surfaces, Rigging, and Systems Assemblers | $66,510 | $71,130 | +$4,620 (+6.9%) |
Tuition, Fees & Estimated Costs
Overview of tuition rates, housing, and other annual education expenses for undergraduate and graduate students
Financial Aid & Student Support
Summary of scholarships, grants, student loans, and financial aid statistics for undergraduate students
Student Success Metrics
Graduation rates and post-graduation earnings to help assess student outcomes and long-term value of education.
Loan Burden & Repayment Outcomes
Breakdown of loan repayment rates and student debt levels by income and dependency status.
Frequently Asked Questions
Find answers to the most common questions about California Aeronautical University (CAU)
How much does it cost to attend California Aeronautical University (CAU)?
The annual tuition at California Aeronautical University (CAU) is $35,465 for in-state students. When including room and board, books, and other expenses, the total estimated cost is approximately $47,437 for in-state students. Additional costs include room and board $8,150 (on) / $15,113 (off) .
Data based on IPEDS program completions for 2022-2023 academic year. Tuition and cost estimates are approximate and may not include all fees, personal expenses, or transportation costs.
What academic programs and degree levels does California Aeronautical University offer?
California Aeronautical University (CAU) offers 10 academic programs across 2 major fields of study, with available degree levels: Certificate (1-2 yrs), Associate's, Bachelor's, Master's.
Most popular program areas include:
- Logistics Management, Supply Chain and Transportation Systems (4 programs)
- Automotive Technology, Equipment Repair and Maintenance (2 programs)
Data based on IPEDS program completions for 2022-2023 academic year. Numbers reflect programs where students graduated, not all offered programs.
What financial aid and scholarships are available at California Aeronautical University?
California Aeronautical University (CAU) provides financial aid to 8% of first-time, full-time students, with average grants of $8,311 and average loans of $12,230.
Average financial aid amounts by type:
- Pell grants: $8,889
- Institutional grants: $2,740
- Federal loans: $9,962
The university supports 20 students with grants and 25 students with loans annually.
Data based on IPEDS for 2022-2023 academic year. Financial aid amounts and percentages may vary by program, enrollment status, and individual circumstances.
What is the average salary for California Aeronautical University graduates?
California Aeronautical University (CAU) graduates earn a median salary of $37,182 after 6 years and $38,361 after 10 years.
The salary range 10 years after graduation spans from $20,349 (25th percentile) to $52,637 (75th percentile), with top earners reaching $67,200 (90th percentile).
Data based on IPEDS for 2022-2023 academic year. Salary data reflects graduates who received federal financial aid (approximately 60% of all graduates). Actual earnings may vary significantly based on program, location, and individual circumstances.
Related Universities
