California Aeronautical University (CAU) is proud to announce that it has once again been recognized among the nation’s leading online institutions, earning a spot on the Top Online Colleges of 2026 list by Newsweek and Statista. This marks the University’s second consecutive year receiving the prestigious honor, reaffirming CAU’s growing reputation for delivering high-quality education for aspiring aviation professionals.
Building on its 2025 debut ranking, CAU continues to expand and strengthen its online academic offerings, which include industry-focused degree programs designed to meet the evolving needs of the aviation workforce. This year’s recognition further highlights the University’s commitment to innovation, accessibility, and student success.
“We’re honored to be named a top online college for a second year in a row,” said Matthew Johnston, President of California Aeronautical University. “This recognition reflects our team’s dedication to providing our students with a supportive, industry-driven education—no matter where they live.”
The list ranks the top 250 colleges and online learning providers that offer online courses and degree programs, with evaluations based on overall satisfaction, success, practical relevance, recommendation, reputation, organization, support, and price.
CAU joins the list alongside many other distinguished and well-known institutions.
According to Newsweek, “the research is based on an online survey of over 10,000 individuals in the U.S. who have used online courses to obtain an academic degree or acquire knowledge and skills for their job or hobbies.”
CAU offers a range of aviation programs for aspiring aviation professionals. At its main campus, students can earn a Bachelor of Science in Aeronautics with fast-paced, in-person flight training on CAU’s dedicated aircraft fleet. For students seeking career advancement or leadership roles in the industry, CAU offers an online Bachelor of Science in Aviation Business Administration and an online Master of Aviation Science.
In addition to on-campus flight training and online degree programs, CAU reaches students across the county through its approved Reach Flight Centers. These approved centers offer an online bachelor’s degree pathway for students pursuing a commercial pilot degree who reside outside of CAU’s campus communities. Students complete academic coursework online while receiving in-person flight training with an approved Reach Flight Center close to home.
Through the University’s Reach Flight Centers, CAU’s partnerships with flight schools expand access to quality academic courses and aviation training for aspiring aviators nationwide.
As CAU celebrates its continued recognition, the University remains focused on expanding access to aviation education and supporting students as they prepare for the growing opportunities within the aviation industry.
About California Aeronautical University
California Aeronautical University (CAU), an FAA Part 141 approved aviation school, is preparing the next generation of aviation professionals. Serving students from all over the country, the University offers career-focused programs in aviation, aviation business, and aircraft maintenance. With on-airport locations throughout California and in Arizona that provide an ideal learning environment, CAU courses are delivered in a year-round, fast-paced schedule that enables students to enter the pipeline for aviation careers in a shorter amount of time. Through the University’s strong partnerships with airlines, influential aviation organizations, and leaders in the aviation community, CAU graduates become a part of a larger aviation network and reap the benefits of these relationships, including direct access to several airline cadet programs. The University offers financial aid, scholarships, and veteran educational benefits to those who qualify.
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