Holzer's academic career began at the City University of New York's John Jay College as an Assistant Professor of Public Administration in 1971.
Holzer continued at John Jay College until mid-1989, when he joined Rutgers University at Newark.
In 2006, Holzer became the Founding Dean of the Rutgers University School of Public Affairs and Administration.
In addition, Holzer has served as the chair of almost fifty doctoral dissertations in public administration and global affairs.
He has been recognized with over 20 national and international awards for his contributions in the field of research, teaching and service.