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College of Natural Sciences

College of Natural Sciences

Keri Pappas

Student Spotlight - Keri Pappas

Keri Pappas is a Human Biology major from Groton, South Dakota. She will be one of six speakers at this year's graduation ceremonies.

Michelle Kelly Neal

Alumni Profile - Michelle Kelly Neal (Physics Alumni)

Physics Alumni Michelle Kelly Neal shares her decision to attend SDSU - Physics, classes that shaped her future, and advice for prospective students who also are interested in answering the questions of today.

section of ice core in metal sleeve from West Antarctic Ice Sheet Divide

Research Spotlight - New Ice Core Data Tracks Climate-Changing Eruptions

Professor Jihong Cole-Dai is part of an international team of scientists that work to analyze & learn from the past in order to help predict how the climate changes moving forward.

Explore Ideas Programs

Find the start of your journey today!

There are so many paths you can take to achieve your ultimate goal. In the College of Natural Sciences, we're here to help guide along the way.

Our Departments

Biology & Microbiology 

Biology & Microbiology style

Chemistry & Biochemistry 

Chemistry.BioChem

Geography & Geospatial Sciences

Geography - Satellite Imagery

Physics 

Physics

Fast Facts

Number of Personnel

25+
Staff
84+
Faculty

Number of Students

680+
Undergraduate
150+
Graduate

Facilities

8+
 

Majors & Minors

11
Majors
8
Minors

Certificates

2
 

CNS Publications Downloaded

25,000+
 

Our Mission

The College of Natural Sciences provides a robust, integrative academic experience to foster student success, opportunities to explore the frontiers of knowledge through advanced innovative research, and demonstrates excellence in accordance with the South Dakota State University’s land-grant mission.

What We Do

Research Photo

Undergrad Research

Undergrads are provided access to facilities and research opportunities within the first few years, providing them hands on experience to what they are interested in and studying.

Facilities, Departments Pic

Expanding the Classroom

Students have access to internships and study abroad programs, expanding their learning environment possibilities outside of the classroom.

Research Facility Image

Facilities

Cutting edge and nationally ranked equipment & facilities at the fingertips of our students.

Connecting

Gaining a Community

There are many exciting things one can do in the STEM World! Even more, there are many people to share them with. Students organizations, pre-professional advisors, and accessible professors will all provide lifetime connections and support throughout the student's time.

Where We Are

 

Come Visit Us

We welcome anyone to visit and get an insight look on what to expect. Explore SDSU from anywhere, anytime, allowing you to get your questions answered directly from faculty and students.
*Virtual Tours are available!*

 

Outreach

Looking for a field trip idea? Do you work with curious minds? Are you in need of guest speakers to connect with in-person or remotely? Contact us today and we can review how the College of Natural Sciences can provide.

Signs You Should Major in the Natural Sciences

Student Help

Student Emergency Fund

Watermelon and berries on a plate.

Jack's Cupboard

Photo of Human Anatomy Lab

SDState Cadaver Lab Expansion

College of Natural Sciences News

See All Our News

SDSU Moves to Face Coverings Optional Policy May 10

South Dakota State University, as part of its effort for a more normal 2021 fall semester, announced today face coverings will now be optional on campus beginning Monday.

Commencement to be held on College Green

South Dakota State University will hold its 2021 commencement ceremonies May 8-9 on the College Green, the area east of the South Dakota Art Museum and west of Morrill Hall. 

Cover of the Feb. 5 Journal of Organic Chemistry

SDSU chemistry research featured on journal cover

Having your research on the cover of a prestigious journal is a milestone in a faculty member’s career—it’s something South Dakota State University assistant professor Rachel Willand-Charnley and undergraduate researcher Timothy Paris already have under their belts.