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. 

Leadership Announcement

Dr. Stephen Trzaskoma smiles in front of a gray background.

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

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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. 

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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.

College of Natural and Social Sciences News

Senator Sasha Renée Pérez wearing a blue blazer standing in front of a United States and California Flag

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.

Dr. Fisher wearing a white blouse

College of Natural and Social Sciences Welcomes Dr. Kirsten Fisher as Associate Dean

Dr. Fisher, a professor of biological sciences and former department chair, will support the college’s priorities in academic excellence, interdisciplinary collaboration, and student mentorship.

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Dedicated to Students: Cal State LA’s Dr. Dinur Blum Named Outstanding Lecturer

Sociology instructor Dr. Dinur Blum is recognized for his impactful research, innovative teaching, and commitment to mentoring students at Cal State LA.

Dr. Antonio Tinoco Valencia at his Cal State LA graduation (left) and in a UCLA lab wearing a blue UCLA shirt (right).

Finding His Element: Cal State LA Alum Dr. Antonio Tinoco Valencia Joins UCLA Faculty

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.

Dr. Eric Wood smiling outdoors. Text reads: "Dr. Eric Wood – Recipient of the 2025 Harry R. Painton Award."

Cal State LA Professor Wins 2025 Harry R. Painton Award

The American Ornithological Society has recognized Cal State LA professor Dr. Eric Wood with the 2025 Harry R. Painton Award for his outstanding research on birds, habitat, and environmental justice in Los Angeles.

Girl wearing blue button up

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 students observing the different plants in a greenhouse

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

Alumni Spotlight

Dr. Antonio Tinoco Valencia at his Cal State LA graduation (left) and in a UCLA lab wearing a blue UCLA shirt (right).

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.

Events Calendar & Social Media

There are no upcoming events.

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.