Welcome to the College of Sciences at the University of Nevada, Las Vegas!
Whether you are pursuing an undergraduate or graduate degree, you will join a vibrant academic community where nationally and internationally recognized faculty are dedicated to advancing knowledge and preparing the next generation of scientists, educators, and innovators.
The College of Sciences offers educational opportunities across astronomy, biochemistry, chemistry, geoscience, life sciences, mathematics, physics, radiochemistry, statistics, and a range of interdisciplinary programs. Our students benefit from rigorous instruction, hands-on learning, and access to world-class research facilities that foster discovery and innovation.
From exploring the fundamental principles that govern the natural world to developing solutions for today's most pressing scientific and societal challenges, our programs emphasize critical thinking, research excellence, and real-world impact. We offer degrees ranging from the Bachelor of Science to the Doctor of Philosophy, providing students with the knowledge, skills, and experiences needed for successful careers in science, industry, education, healthcare, government, and beyond.
As you explore our website, you'll discover our distinguished faculty, outstanding academic programs, cutting-edge research, and the many opportunities available to engage in science, experiential learning, and community partnerships. We invite you to learn more about what makes the UNLV College of Sciences a place where curiosity drives discovery and students are empowered to make a lasting difference.
Monika Neda is the Interim Dean in the College of Sciences at the University of Nevada, Las Vegas. Her scholarly expertise lies in computational fluid dynamics, turbulence modeling, numerical partial differential equations, and finite element methods, with a research portfolio that bridges rigorous mathematical analysis and real-world applications. She has authored more than 40 peer-reviewed journal articles in leading venues spanning applied mathematics, numerical analysis, and engineering sciences.
Dr. Neda earned her Ph.D. in Mathematics from the University of Pittsburgh, where her doctoral research focused on numerical analysis of turbulence models. Prior to joining UNLV, she held research and teaching appointments at the University of Pittsburgh and served as a Givens Associate at Argonne National Laboratory. At UNLV, she has progressed through the academic ranks from Assistant Professor to Professor, reflecting sustained excellence in research, teaching, and service. Over the years, especially in the role of the Associate Dean for Research, Dr. Neda provided strategic leadership for interdisciplinary research initiatives, faculty development, and external funding growth. She has served as Principal Investigator or co-PI on multiple funded projects, including large-scale awards focused on improving STEM student success and advancing graduate level educational practices. A dedicated mentor and advocate, she is deeply committed to fostering inclusive and research-rich academic environments.
The College of Sciences offers bachelor’s, master’s, and doctoral degrees to approximately 2,500 students in various areas.
With approximately 145 full-time faculty, the college has created a well-rounded curriculum by combining practical and empirical knowledge with scientific fundamentals and principles, which provides a solid foundation for a successful career in the sciences and other professional programs.
Hands-on Research
The research opportunities available to our students and faculty allow them to make inquiries and observations necessary for scientific discoveries. These discoveries are helping to protect and preserve Nevada and its citizens.
Community Service
Students, faculty, and staff participate in many programs that foster a positive relationship between UNLV and members of the community.
Facilities
Students have access to facilities, laboratories, research centers, and institutes on campus and throughout the country. This access enhances the classroom experience, fosters educational development, and builds relationships within the scientific community.
Preparation for Life
The college offers programs in life sciences, chemistry and biochemistry, geoscience, mathematical sciences, physics and astronomy, and water management.
The student-faculty relationship, hands-on research, and community service help ensure that students who graduate are prepared for whatever path they choose.
Mission Statement
The mission of the College of Sciences is to serve the students of UNLV, the citizens of Nevada and the United States, and society worldwide through research and discovery that expands knowledge in the natural, physical, and mathematical sciences. We communicate this knowledge to students in a rewarding learning environment, and to communities beyond the university through active engagement of diverse constituencies.
The College of Sciences endeavors to develop and nurture a community of scientists and scholars who are among the world leaders in their disciplinary areas, and who generate knowledge at the forefront of science. Research and discovery, in symbiosis with education, are our hallmarks. Addressing fundamental questions related to earth sciences, biological systems, physical and chemical systems, mathematics, and the universe will continue to be core focus areas. In conjunction with colleagues within and outside of the university, faculty and students participate in the application and exploitation of our scientific discoveries and expertise to the benefit of the university, the citizens of Nevada, and society at large.
The College of Sciences creates innovative and engaging learning environments in which students are educated to the full extent of their abilities. Our programs produce highly skilled and knowledgeable scientists educated in a premier research environment. In addition, we provide the education needed by diverse student populations, ranging from formal grounding in the sciences for technical disciplines, to a general appreciation and understanding of the sciences for non-specialists. We strive to develop comprehensive educational initiatives and services, and engage our alumni and friends in mutually beneficial relationships in support of teaching, research, and community service activities.
“The eternal mystery of the world is its comprehensibility.”
Albert Einstein