Welcome to the College of Natural and Social Sciences
The College of Natural and Social Sciences is one of the largest college at Cal State LA, offering a wide range of programs in the sciences, social sciences, mathematics, and interdisciplinary fields. NSS supports student achievement, faculty excellence, and research that serves the public good.
Leadership Announcement
Interim Dean Appointment for the College of Natural and Social Sciences
We are pleased to announce that Dr. Stephen M. Trzaskoma has been appointed Interim Dean of the College of Natural and Social Sciences, effective June 9, 2025.
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 celebrates NSS faculty excellence at the Employee Recognition and Service Awards Celebration
Cal State LA NSS faculty members were recognized for excellence in teaching and outstanding achievements during the university’s first combined Employee Recognition and Service Awards Celebration on Sept. 4.
Cal State LA professor Petr Vozka named among analytical science’s Top 40 Under 40
The Analytical Scientist recognizes the chemistry professor among 40 emerging leaders helping shape the future of analytical science
Cal State LA introduces new Bachelor of Science in Applied Environmental Science
Cal State LA will launch a new Bachelor of Science in Applied Environmental Science in fall 2027, preparing students to address pressing environmental challenges, including climate change, urban sustainability, water resources, pollution, resource stewardship, and environmental justice.
Cal State LA graduate student receives CSU Trustees’ Award for Outstanding Achievement
Edgar Yak-De Padua, a first-generation college student who overcame financial hardship to excel academically, has been named a recipient of a 2026 California State University Trustees’ Award for Outstanding Achievement. The award is the university system’s highest recognition of student achievement.
Cal State LA welcomes renowned chemist Omar Farha for Jean Dreyfus Lectureship
Cal State LA welcomed internationally recognized chemist Omar K. Farha for the Jean Dreyfus Lectureship on September 17–18, 2026, bringing a leading scientist in materials research to campus for two days of lectures and academic engagement.
Cal State LA Biological Sciences chair Hyunsook Park receives Outstanding Leadership Award
Hyunsook Park, professor and chair of the Department of Biological Sciences at Cal State LA, received the 2026 Outstanding Leadership Award at the UKC 2026 Women's Forum.
Cal State LA chemistry major earns prestigious Barry Goldwater Scholarship
Cal State LA chemistry major Elise Hastie has been named a 2026 Barry Goldwater Scholar, one of the nation’s most prestigious undergraduate awards in the natural sciences, mathematics, and engineering.
Alumni Spotlight
Finding His Element: The Journey of Dr. Antonio Tinoco Valencia
Alumnus Dr. Antonio Tinoco Valencia is committed to mentoring the next generation of scientists and hopes his journey from ELAC to Cal State LA to UCLA will inspire students to dream big and persevere.