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
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.
Student Support
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.
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.
College of Natural and Social Sciences News
Cal State LA Alumna Sasha Renée Pérez Sworn in as California State Senator for District 25
Sasha Renée Pérez becomes the youngest California State Senator, bringing a history of leadership and advocacy for education access and affordability.
Pérez-Silverman Symposium focuses on Cal State LA’s biodiversity, conservation efforts with campus bird tour, tree planting
The symposium will be held from Tuesday, April 15, to Wednesday, April 16, and will also feature an oak tree-planting session, a seed-harvesting workshop, and a “Birds and Seeds” panel that will explore the connections between urban wildlife, native plants, and environmental resilience.
Cal State LA graduate student Maria Velasco keeps indigenous Mexican language Zapotec alive
Strangers come up to Maria Velasco and tell her how proud they are of her and her work in promoting their indigenous Zapotec language. Her fellow Oaxacans approach her on the streets of Koreatown and share stories of how their children or grandchildren have learned Zapotec words and phrases through Velasco’s online videos and social media posts.
Cal State LA professor spotlights power of observation in science and art
Dr. Christine Scoffoni bridges scientific research and creative expression in new exhibit exploring the hidden beauty of plants
Cal State LA Students and Faculty Assist in Recovery of Cremated Remains Lost in California Wildfires
Students and Faculty Assist in Wildfire Recovery Efforts to Bring Closure to Families
Cal State LA Celebrates Student Innovation at the 2025 Student Symposium
Cal State LA proudly hosted the annual Student Symposium on Research, Scholarship, and Creative Activities on Friday, February 28, 2025, showcasing the remarkable academic and creative endeavors of its students.
In Memoriam: Dr. Stephen Mulherin (1962–2025)
The Cal State LA community mourns the passing of Dr. Stephen Mulherin, who passed away on March 12, 2025, at the age of 63. A dedicated scholar, passionate educator, and valued colleague, Dr. Mulherin served the university with distinction for more than two decades.
Alumni Spotlight
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.