Since Anton van Leeuwenhoek first observed the microorganism in the 17th century, biology has played a role in some of the greatest discoveries in history. Today, the field is multidimensional, offering promising careers in medicine, ecology, agriculture, sports fitness, genetics, research, biotechnology, and industry, to name a few. The study of life on earth is as varied as life itself.

Why Choose Nazareth for Biology?

In Nazareth College of Rochester’s Biology program, students are mentored by biologists who assist them in the understanding of biology's basic principles, discoveries, and theories. They learn how to develop the habits of a biologist—accurate observation, measurement, and analysis. They are also encouraged to think independently, and learning becomes less structured as they progress through the program. All students participate in independent research as a capstone project, and many students do field work and internships. For example, a pre-medical student recently completed an internship in Berlin, Germany working at a center on epilepsy research.

Program Highlights

• An award-winning faculty, including recent recipients of a National Science Foundation grant to study plant growth and another NSF grant to purchase state-of-the-art physiology equipment.
• State-of-the-art technology at our new Integrated Center for Math and Science, including PCR and electrophoretic equipment, digital imaging, and GPS systems.
• Special community projects and partnerships such as Science Days at the Rochester Museum of Science, the Science Olympiad at local schools, internships to study abroad, and the Nazareth College greenhouse.
• Excellent preparation for pre-medical, pre-veterinary, and pre-dental programs. Students in Nazareth's biology program go on to graduate school, or immediately begin careers in science teaching, laboratory research, or industry.

Program Director

Dr. Brian Witz
bwitz7@naz.edu
(585) 389-2554
Peckham 120

Dr. Witz received his B.A. from Adelphi University where he studied Biology with a minor in Secondary Education. He received an M.S. in Zoology and his Ph.D. in Biology from the University of South Florida. His research interests focus on amphibian/reptilian physiological ecology. Dr. Witz is also interested in thermal physiology energetics and anti predator mechanisms of reptiles and amphibians.