California University of Pennsylvania is committed to focusing resources on creating high quality, technologically relevant degree programs that help students work towards successful careers and community leadership roles. By using faculty and facilities that are top-notch, the school hopes to give students a love of learning, an entrepreneurial spirit, and the integrity and competence to overcome any obstacles in their personal and professional lives.

California University can trace its history back to 1852. It began as a comprehensive educational institution that provided studies from the elementary level right up to college courses. Later on, the school began specializing in teacher education. It is actually the oldest school outside of California to bear the California name. Today, the school offers many programs other than those in education. There are multiple campuses, with the main one in California, PA, and two smaller campuses in Canonsburg and Pittsburgh. For those who live outside of these areas, the school also offers a growing online program.

Students of Cal-U have gone on to be quite successful in a variety of fields both in the professional and athletic spheres. Many of the student athletes have gone on after their college years to play with big teams in the MLB, NFL and NBA, and make names for themselves as professional athletes. Other graduates have taken a different route and have pursued academics, making waves in Congress, journalism and writing.

The distance learning program at Cal-U is called Global Online, and rightly so as it allows students from all over the nation and the world to come together to complete degree programs. It was established in 2000, and since then has been providing students with a flexible way to work towards personal enrichment and career development. Courses are taken entirely online, and students will work with qualified faculty to complete coursework and projects. Programs are now available in fields like Legal Studies, Wellness and Fitness, Tourism Planning and much more.