The city is a planned community designed by the Irvine
Company. Though formerly a Spanish land grant, the property was purchased
by the Irvine family, early settlers to the region, who used the land for
farming and ranching until demand for housing and business development
increased rapidly in the 1960s.
Pictured above, University of California Irvine (UCI),
is one of the top three employers in Orange County with a staff of over
6,000. That's larger than some universities' total enrollment. Gaining
attention for its medical and engineering programs, the university attracts
international researchers in specialty fields of science. An annual AIDS
Walk held in the Spring (left) and a view of the campus are seen here.
UCI not only offers degrees in numerous subjects but also
has an extensive business related continuing education program offering
certificates.