College of Natural and Social Sciences

The College of Natural and Social Sciences (NSS) is the largest college at Cal State LA with over 150 outstanding and dedicated faculty who have won more Statewide Outstanding Professor Awards than faculty in any other academic unit in the California State University system. The college is committed to programs of academic excellence in the fields of natural and social sciences that provide access and opportunity for a uniquely diverse student body. 

Dean's Welcome

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Welcome to the College of Natural and Social Sciences

Welcome to the College of Natural and Social Sciences, home to 12 departments and programs. As we embark on another exciting year of academic excellence at Cal State LA, it's my privilege to lead the college.

NSS Honors Convocation 2024

The College of Natural and Social Sciences hosted its annual Honors Convocation, celebrating the academic achievements of both undergraduate and graduate students. For the first time, honorees received NSS honors pins, symbolizing their hard work and dedication. The ceremony underscored the community's collective pride and the importance of recognizing student success.

College of Natural and Social Sciences News

Cal State LA Professor Jennifer Garrison sits in front of a large mountain.

Cal State LA’s geology professor receives Fulbright Scholar award

Jennifer Garrison, professor of geology at Cal State LA, has recently received a Fulbright U.S. Scholar Program award to collaborate with scientists in Ecuador on an exchange program.

Cal State LA students presents during workshop

Cal State LA hosts 15th Multidimensional Chromatography Workshop

This January, Cal State LA became a hub for scientists and researchers as it hosted the 15th Multidimensional Chromatography Workshop. From January 10 to 12, 2024, the event brought together leading experts and those new to the field of multidimensional chromatography, focusing on the latest techniques and developments.

Volume 50

Cal State LA's "Perspectives: Volume 50" Wins Second Place in Prestigious History Journal Competition

California State University, Los Angeles's student-run journal "Perspectives: Volume 50" has been awarded second place in the esteemed 2023 Gerald D. Nash History Graduate Journal competition. This honor is bestowed by the Phi Alpha Theta National History Honor Society and recognizes the exceptional work of graduate history journals nationwide.

Barry Hibbs, professor of geology in the College of Natural and Social Sciences at Cal State LA.

Cal State LA geology professor receives award from the National Ground Water Association

Cal State LA Professor Barry Hibbs has been selected as a recipient of the National Ground Water Association’s Keith E. Anderson Award for 2023. The association is a leader in advocating for the responsible development, management, and use of water.

In Memoriam graphic: Anthony Fratiello, Professor Emeritus of Chemistry 1936-2023

In Memoriam- Remembering Anthony Fratiello

With deep sorrow, we announce the passing of Anthony Fratiello, Professor Emeritus of Chemistry.

In loving memory, the family respectfully asks for gifts to the Anthony Fratiello Endowed Scholarship, a meaningful tribute reflecting his values and legacy, in lieu of flowers.

liu DOE fair award news

Cal State LA receives grant to boost opportunities for students to engage in clean energy research

Cal State LA has received a $750,000 grant from the U.S. Department of Energy to provide more research and training opportunities in STEM fields for students while addressing important energy and climate challenges.  

Cal State LA Interim President, Leroy Morishita, poses for a group photo with the 2023 Outstanding Professors.

Cal State LA honors outstanding faculty at University Convocation 2023

Three Cal State LA NSS faculty members were recognized for excellence in teaching and outstanding achievements during University Convocation 2023.

ACADEMICS

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NSS Degree Programs

The College of Natural and Social Sciences provides innovative degree programs leading to baccalaureate and master's degrees in an environment that encourages intentional learning and collaborative research. 

STUDENT SUPPORT

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NSS ADVISING

Need help with degree planning and progression, graduation check, exploring or declaring a major, or other academic concerns? The NSS Advisement Center team is here to help. 

Urban Ecology Center

The mission of the Urban Ecology Center (UEC), housed within Cal State LA’s College of Natural and Social Sciences (NSS), is to support the advancement of transdisciplinary research, education, and professional development with a focus on sustainable, equitable, and fair economic drivers, land use practices, and public policies.

Alumni Spotlight

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Alma Rosa Nieto

Alumnus Alma Rosa Nieto understands the importance of representation and role models and aims to be a source of inspiration to current Cal State LA students.