60 Years of Discovery, Impact and Possibility

Our Legacy of Discovery and Growth

In 1965, UC Irvine welcomed its first students onto a brand-new campus shaped by architect William Pereira’s daring master plan. What began as bold lines on a drawing board quickly became a thriving center of learning, discovery, and possibility. As Orange County grew and transformed, UC Irvine grew alongside it—fueling innovation, educating generations of leaders, and championing inclusive excellence. Together, university and community shaped one another’s futures. Six decades later, UC Irvine continues to expand what’s possible. From cutting-edge research to public service that improves lives, our commitment to progress is as strong as ever. And as we look ahead, our roots in this community keep us grounded, while our reach extends across the globe.

60 years behind us. A limitless future ahead.

A Decade of Growth and Impact

In the last ten years UC Irvine enrollment topped 36,000 students, research funding soared and economic impact grew as the campus advanced discovery and innovation.

View 2015-2025

Legacy of Impact

Explore five decades of UC Irvine history, achievements and moments that shaped the university.

Pre-1965

Regents approved a new UC campus in Orange County; President Lyndon Johnson attends campus dedication.

Pre-1965
1965-1974

Anteater mascot chosen, Ansel Adams photographed campus, and faculty research transformed the world

1965-1974
1975-1984

Campus grew rapidly with a medical center, new chancellor, housing, 10K+ students and a ZIP code.

1975-1984
1985-1994

First woman chancellor appointed, Beckman Laser Institute opened, Reines won National Medal of Science.

1985-1994
1995-2004

Nobel Prizes, AAU membership, and national recognition in medical research marked global preeminence

1995-2004
2005-2015

Named world’s best under 50, hosted President Obama, and became a leader in sustainability practices

2005-2015