Fullerton, after the turn of the 20th century, was a thriving agricultural city that sought to start a junior college for its young residents, opening the campus to 26 students and offering 10 courses.
The fledgling college had no campus of its own and conducted classes at Fullerton High School before opening a 14-acre campus in 1936.
Returning U.S. servicemen and women after World War II and the GI Bill prompted a huge influx of students beginning in 1946 while Orange County's population exploded, adding more students.
By 1964, the population growth was so large that the North Orange County Junior College District formed to encompass 150 square miles.
By 1982, programs and services at Fullerton College included counseling, a bookstore, distance education, an academic support center and an admissions and records facility.
In 1996, an ethnic diversity program was established to promote cultural events and engage in dialogue on gay and lesbian issues, among other topics.