University of California-Irvine logo

University of California-Irvine

Irvine, CA

publicgraduate

Quick Facts

Fiat lux("Let there be light")

1965
Founded
Public land-grant research university
Type
37,297
Total Students
30,204
Undergrad
7,093
Graduate
$899M
Endowment
(2024)
Doctoral Universities
Classification

Data from Wikipedia (CC BY-SA 4.0) & U.S. Dept. of Education

About University of California-Irvine

UC Irvine: A 'Public Ivy' powerhouse known for groundbreaking research and a vibrant student experience.

Nestled in the heart of Southern California, the University of California, Irvine (UCI) stands as a dynamic public land-grant research university, renowned for its commitment to innovation and discovery. Consistently recognized as a "Public Ivy" in national surveys, UCI offers a world-class education within a lively and engaging academic environment. With a robust offering of 87 undergraduate degrees and 129 graduate and professional degrees, it serves a diverse community of nearly 37,300 students, fostering a culture of intellectual curiosity and societal impact.

Established in 1965, UC Irvine was one of three new University of California campuses designed to accommodate the post-war baby boom and the rapid growth of Orange County. Situated on the expansive Irvine Ranch, the campus was strategically chosen to complement nearby institutions and enable the development of a master-planned community. Its official dedication by President Lyndon B. Johnson in 1964 marked a significant moment, leading to its opening a year later with an inaugural class eager to forge new academic frontiers.

As an "R1: Doctoral University – Very high research activity," UCI is a beacon of cutting-edge research, demonstrated by its impressive $609.6 million in research and development expenditures in 2023. The university proudly houses the first Earth System Science Department in the United States and became a member of the prestigious Association of American Universities in 1996. Its academic prowess is underscored by its affiliates including 5 Nobel Prize laureates, 7 Pulitzer Prize winners, and 1 Turing Award winner. Additionally, UCI administers the UC Irvine Medical Center, a major teaching hospital and its affiliated health sciences system, contributing significantly to health and medical advancements.

Beyond its academic achievements, UCI offers a rich student experience. The UC Irvine Anteaters compete fiercely in NCAA Division I, boasting 28 national championships across nine different team sports. The university has also sent 53 Anteaters to the Olympics, collectively earning 33 medals. With its motto "Fiat lux"—"Let there be light"—UC Irvine illuminates minds and inspires future leaders on its expansive 1,582-acre suburban campus, making it an exceptional place for learning and growth.

Key Highlights

  • Designated as an "R1: Doctoral University – Very high research activity" with $609.6 million in research and development expenditures in 2023.
  • Named a "Public Ivy" in surveys, offering an education comparable to Ivy League institutions.
  • Features 5 Nobel Prize laureates, 7 Pulitzer Prize winners, and 1 Turing Award winner among its alumni and affiliates.
  • Offers 87 undergraduate degrees and 129 graduate and professional degrees to nearly 37,300 students.
  • Established the first Earth System Science Department in the United States.
  • UC Irvine Anteaters have won 28 national championships in NCAA Division I sports and 53 Olympians have earned 33 medals.
  • Founded in 1965, it was one of three new UC campuses under the California Master Plan for Higher Education.

Timeline

1950
University of California system identifies need for new campuses to accommodate post-war baby boom.
1960
University of California, Irvine (UCI) established as one of three new UC campuses under the California Master Plan.
1964
U.S. President Lyndon B. Johnson dedicates UC Irvine on June 20.
1965
Campus officially begins operations on October 4 with 1,589 students.
1966
Holds its first Commencement ceremony on June 25, conferring its first degrees.
1996
Becomes a member of the prestigious Association of American Universities (AAU).
2023
Achieves $609.6 million in research and development expenditures, ranking 56th nationally.
🏛️
61 Years
of Excellence

Schools & Colleges

1 notable schools within University of California-Irvine

🏥

UC Irvine Medical Center and Health Sciences System

A large teaching hospital and its affiliated health sciences system in Orange, contributing to health education and research.

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