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The Faster Track

Learn how CAU can help you reach your aviation career goals.

Complete the form below and an admissions representative will contact you to discuss your future at CAU.

From zero flight experience to your career in aviation

Elevate your pilot career with a degree from California Aeronautical University (CAU). Designed for optimal efficiency, our Bachelor of Science in Aeronautics program allows you to start flying in your first term—no lottery selection or prerequisite courses required.

CAU students earn a degree and 6 certificates/ratings, all within about 3 years at 1,000 hours - the faster track to the airline of your dreams.

Seniority matters, get there faster with a degree. 

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CAU Degree Program Highlights

Financial Aid & Tuition Reductions

Federal financial aid and scholarships to those who qualify. Ask about our $10,000 tuition reduction program.

Competitive Advantage

In a competitive job market, flight hours alone might not be enough. A degree can be your competitive advantage. Stand out as a candidate.

Flight Time-Savings

Eligible degree students receive crucial time-saving benefits, including qualifying for a R-ATP with only 1,000 flight hours - saving 500 flight hours vs non-degree programs.

Direct Pathway To Airlines

CAU has partnered with major and regional airlines to create opportunities for their pilot students, many of which include a direct pathway to the airline’s flight deck.

This program is for you if...

  • You're looking to make a career out of flying
  • You want to earn a college degree

This program is NOT for you if...

  • You want to fly as a hobby
  • You want to obtain only a flight certificate

Potential Pilot Careers

Airline Pilot

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CAU grads have been hired by Delta Air Lines, Avelo Airlines, SkyWest Airlines, Horizon Air, and more.

Cargo Carrier Pilot

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Graduates have been hired by cargo carriers like Air Transport International (ATI) and others that fly cargo for Amazon.

Emergency Medical Services

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CAU grads have been hired by air medical service organizations like Apollo MedFlight.

Flight Instructor

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Looking to share your love for flying with the next generation? Train future pilots as a certified flight instructor.

Charter Pilot

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Graduates have been hired by private jet charter companies like PlaneSense, NetJets, and international operators.

Agricultural Pilot


Combine your love for aviation with your passion for sustainable agriculture.

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The Faster Track

Flight students can take advantage of the fast-track benefits offered by California Aeronautical University.

FLIGHT TIME-SAVINGS
Eligible CAU students can qualify for a restricted Airline Transport Pilot (R-ATP) certification and only need 1,000 hours for the flight hour requirement. Candidates without a bachelor’s degree typically need 1,500 hours for their ATP. That's a savings of 500 flight hours.

*FLY FOR AIRLINES AT 21 YEARS OLD
By earning a degree from CAU, eligible students can qualify to fly for the airlines at only 21 years old with 1,000 hours. Without a degree, candidates can qualify for a R-ATP at age 21 with 1,500 hours or qualify for an ATP at 23 years old with 1,500 hours. Typically, without the reduced hours a degree offers, it is more difficult to earn 1,500 flight hours by age 21 to qualify for a R-ATP. That typically means CAU students can fly for airlines up to 2 years sooner.

CONSISTENT TRAINING
At CAU, all courses and flight training lessons are scheduled for our students. The schedule allows students to maintain a steady progress throughout their training.

Learn more about what sets CAU apart.

Financial Aid and Tuition Reduction

Every student’s situation is unique, so finding the right financial aid plan for aviation school is important. Financial aid is available to those who qualify and CAU’s financial services coordinators will help you determine what the best financial plan is for your specific situation.

The University is proud to offer the Reaching New Heights Tuition Reduction, which awards $10,000 to recent high school graduates for use towards the Bachelor of Science in Aeronautics program. Request information today to learn about tuition reduction at CAU.

Now Is The Perfect Time To Apply!

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Bakersfield Campus Features

Located in California's Central Valley, CAU's campus is home to an expansive 39,000 square-foot flight center just feet from the aircraft and our 32,000 square-foot hangar. Other amenities include on-campus student housing, dining facility, and recreation center with athletic courts and pool. CAU students live, eat, and breathe aviation in this immersive environment.

Looking for more flexibility in your flight training? CAU also has locations in Ventura County, San Diego, and greater Phoenix.