Applied Biology

By Reginald Amanor

What is Applied Biology?

Applied Biology is the practical application of biological knowledge to solve real-world problems across diverse sectors. It involves using biological concepts, techniques, and research to develop tangible solutions in areas such as agriculture, medicine, and the environment. This branch of biology bridges theory and practice to drive positive change and innovation, with a significant societal impact.

What other programs are centered around biology?

At Legon, a diverse array of programs centered around biology and nutrition are offered. These include Food and Nutrition, Dietetics, Food Consumer Science, and Nutrition courses. In the field of Food Science, where I am currently immersed, we are engaged in creating essential food products and exploring food processing techniques. These programs open up a variety of career paths in the nutrition and food industries. Whether you aspire to be a dietitian, specialize in food science and technology, or delve into nutrition studies, a wealth of options awaits.

How is applied biology different from biochemistry?

Applied Biology and Biochemistry are distinct in their focus. Applied Biology studies living organisms and their internal processes, with a foundation in basic chemistry. In contrast, Biochemistry emphasizes the chemical processes within living organisms, representing the fusion of biology and chemistry. It delves deeply into the chemical aspects of life. While Applied Biology incorporates some chemistry, Biochemistry stands out for its comprehensive exploration of chemical intricacies. Essentially, Biochemistry places greater emphasis on chemistry.

What salary does one receive after pursuing biotechnology?

The salary for someone with a degree in Applied Biology varies, as there is no fixed or specific salary associated with the field itself. Compensation depends largely on the employer and the industry in which you work. Different companies offer different salary packages, so no guarantee pursuing Applied Biology will lead to a set salary like in fields such as medicine or pharmacy. It truly depends on the opportunities you pursue in your career.

What careers could you pursue after reading applied biology?

A degree in Applied Biology offers a wide spectrum of opportunities. You can engage with biological research institutes, contribute to cutting-edge discoveries, or explore roles in health institutions where you can have an impact on medical advancements. You could also work as a consultant, aiding various sectors, or collaborate with agricultural and extension offices to optimize practices. Essentially, wherever biological studies are essential, your skills will be valuable, as biology is the study of life's intricacies.

Is there a lot of maths in applied biology?

The mathematical aspect of biology, while present, is not a major focus. It's more akin to general mathematics that you've encountered before, such as calculating the mean, and mode, and understanding concepts like standard deviation. These calculations are not something you'll be doing every day; they're more sporadic and come into play when conducting experiments or surveys.

In essence, it's a review of the mathematical concepts you learned in junior and senior high school. So, if you already have a solid foundation in basic math, you're well-prepared. However, if you need to brush up on these concepts, don't worry; you'll have the opportunity to learn and apply them during your studies. It's not anything drastically new or complex, just a continuation of the mathematics you're already familiar with.

Which other universities offer applied biology in Ghana?

As far as I am aware, the University for Development Studies (UDS) offers a dedicated Applied Biology program uniquely. At other schools, it is typically a component of other courses or programs. At UDS, Applied Biology is treated as a separate program, similar to pharmacy or a BSc degree. However, I am not certain about the current cutoff points for admission.

Which high school program is needed to read applied biology and which is the cut-off point?

During my time, applicants came from a variety of backgrounds, including General Arts and Home Economics, and successfully enrolled in the program. However, I am not up-to-date with the current admission cutoff points for Applied Biology at UDS.

A personal message

I want to offer some words of encouragement. It's important to remember that the path you choose in your education and career is not set in stone, and it is okay if things do not go exactly as planned.

If you do not get your first-choice course, do not despair. Life will not come crashing down because of it. Instead, embrace the opportunities that come your way. Whether it is medicine, biological science, physician assistantship, or any related field—if you have a genuine interest in it, go for it.

Every experience has a purpose. Sometimes, you may find yourself in a different field before discovering your true passion. For example, if you aspire to be a pharmacist but end up in medical laboratory science, you will gain valuable insights into diagnosing diseases. This knowledge can ultimately benefit you in your desired field by offering a unique perspective on preventing and treating illnesses.

Remember, everyone has their strengths and weaknesses, and that is perfectly normal. Do not compare yourself to others who may have different paths. Instead, give your best effort, stay positive, and have faith that things will work out in the end.