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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Dean René Vellanoweth

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.

College of Natural and Social Sciences News

Laboratory equipment on a desk.

Cal State LA and LECO Corporation collaborate to launch cutting-edge chemical analysis lab

Cal State LA and LECO Corporation, a laboratory equipment company, recently joined forces to launch the LECO Complex Chemical Compositional Analysis Lab.

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.

Graphic: 2024 Cal State LA-MolSSI Computational Molecular Science Workshop

2024 Cal State LA - MolSSI Computational Molecular Science Workshop

On Jan. 8 - 12, 2024 the PREC program at Cal State LA is hosting a Computational Molecular Sciences workshop for early-stage undergraduate and community college students from diverse academic backgrounds with limited experience in the fields of chemistry, computer science, physics, and biology.

The application deadline is December 1st, but space is limited and it will likely fill quickly.

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.  

REU Students in the field

NSF REU Applications Open December 1, 2023

Our REU site at Cal State LA aims to attract motivated, diverse students to investigate urban hydrological problems in Southern California through a nested series of events during a 10-week summer REU experience. Component activities include research activities, training activities, mentoring activities, social activities, and post-REU activities. A four day field activity at various hydrological sites is included in the summer program.  

Cal State LA students at the Urban Garden

USDA REEU Applications Open December, 1 2023

Our USDA REEU SITE at Cal State LA aims to attract motivated, diverse students to investigate urban natural resources and urban agriculture issues and problems through a nested series of events during a 9-week summer REEU experience. Component activities include research activities, training activities, mentoring activities, social activities, and post-REEU activities. A four day field activity in a California river basin is included for all REEU students.

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.