The university for the third age (U3A) began in 1973 when a professor organized a summer program for retired persons at the Universite des Sciences Socialies, Toulouse, France. The Toulouse model included a weekly public lecture on a major topic of concern for older persons, discussion groups, seminars, and recreational facilities, taking advantage of the university facilities. The model also provided for medical research relating to the physical quality of life in later years. Since 1973, the U3A concept has been implemented in countries around the world. An analysis of French U3A clientele and programs for 1980-91 shows that: 70.6% were women; the typical U3A attracted teachers, those who had been denied the opportunity of furthering their education, junior employees, and housewives; there was low participation among farmers and laborers; and programs were a mixture of activities. Among the accusations that can be leveled at U3A are elitism and age segregation. (RM)