Why Choose Nazareth for Biology?

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.

At Nazareth University, 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. Students are also encouraged to think independently, and learning becomes less structured as they progress through the program.

All biology majors 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 National Science Foundation grants to study plant growth and to purchase state-of-the-art physiology equipment.
  • State-of-the-art technology at our new Peckham Hall, including PCR and electrophoretic equipment, digital imaging, and GPS systems. Nazareth's facilities rank among the top 20 science labs in the nation, according to The Princeton Review's 2017 college guide, The Best 381 Colleges.
  • Special community projects and partnerships such as Science Days at the Rochester Museum and Science Center, the Science Olympiad at local schools, internships to study abroad, and the Nazareth University greenhouse.
  • Excellent pre-medical, pre-veterinary, and pre-dental programs. Students go on to graduate school, or immediately begin careers in science teaching, laboratory research, or industry.

Program Details

Options, Requirements, and Course Descriptions

Related minors:

Max Randolph, alum of biology major, bachelor of science degree at Nazareth College Rochester, NY

Alumni Spotlight: Max Randolph '16

Max Randolph ‘16 landed his post-Naz goal: Going to Cornell’s vet school, ranked top in the nation. “I feel very prepared, from my classes and from my experiences,” says Randolph, a biology major with minors in chemistry and pre-veterinary studies. Lab classes capped at 16 students gave him hands-on experiences, even using sophisticated equipment such as a nuclear magnetic resonance spectrometer. His advisor’s encouragement led him to a zoo internship that led to research with a Cornell veterinarian. “Your professors know you and know what you’re interested in.”

Example Careers

  • Biologist
  • M.D., D.V.M., D.D.S., D.O.
  • Environmental analyst
  • Forensic pathologist
  • Geneticist
  • Toxicologist

Undergraduate Research Topics

  • Cell structure and function, both 2D and 3D microscopy
  • Bioinformatics
  • Toxicology and phytoremediation
  • Animal energetics and digestive function
  • Stream ecology and GPS

Graduate Schools/Employers

  • Cornell University’s College of Veterinary Medicine
  • Strong Memorial Hospital
  • University of Buffalo School of Dental Medicine
  • Washington VA Medical Center

Partnership with Northeast College of Health Sciences

Students have the opportunity to receive guaranteed admission to Northeast College of Health Sciences (formerly New York Chiropractic College) and a merit scholarship. Learn more »