Biology is one of the most well-known branches of science, and it is broadly defined as the study of living things. However, students considering biology as a major often find themselves asking, “What does the field of biology study?” Within a biology degree program, students often have the opportunity to delve into niche fields within biology, allowing them to uncover their own interests and passions within this scientific branch.
What Are the Basics of Biology?
At its core, when you consider what does the field biology study, biology is the study of living things, or the study of things that were once living things. Understanding the basics of biology can help students develop a foundational understanding of this vital scientific field. From there, they can begin to explore the subsets of the field, where they may find that they have hidden interests and unexpected passions. Within the field of biology, there are a variety of subfields, such as microbiology, ecology, molecular biology, zoology, cellular biology, botany, genetics, anatomy, and physiology.
Defining Biology and Its Importance in Understanding Life
According to Britannica, biology is defined as the scientific study of living things to develop an in-depth understanding of their processes. Through the study of biology, scientists can begin to understand life and what needs to be done to protect and improve the livelihoods of all living things. In the current era, interdisciplinary study is considered to be a key component of studying biology, with most biologists understanding that their research and findings are often connected to other scientific fields, such as chemistry, physics, and medicine.
The Fundamental Concepts of Biology: From Cells to Organisms
The key fundamental concepts in the field of biology serve as an anchor for any biological studies or research. The five core concepts in biology are:
- Molecular
- Cellular
- Organismal
- Population
- Ecology
In addition to the core concepts that anchor the study of biology, there are five overarching concepts that define studies and research related to biological processes, including:
- Evolution
- Structure and Function
- Information, Flow, Exchange, and Storage
- Pathways of Transformation of Energy and Matter
- Systems
The Branches of Biology and Their Focus Areas
Within the broad field of biology, there are many niche branches that students can focus their studies on. Knowing the different branches of biology and their key focus areas can help students decide if a biology degree is the right choice for them. Oftentimes, students find that they are particularly interested in one key branch of biology, allowing them to develop specialized knowledge and niche skills in that area.
Exploring Botany and Zoology: The Study of Plants and Animals
If you have a particular passion for plants and animals, then you may want to look into the studies of botany and zoology. Both of these branches of biology focus primarily on the study of plants and animals, giving students an opportunity to conduct in-depth research in which they are interested.
Botany is considered to be one of the oldest natural sciences in the world. It is defined as the study of plants, and modern botanists often work to understand plant pathology and ecology to apply their findings in practical ways in the real world. One of the most well-known examples of botany at work is the discovery of the antibiotic penicillin through the study of mold on tree bark.
Zoology, on the other hand, focuses primarily on the study of animals, their habitats, and their lifestyles. Zoologists often work to understand the biological processes of individual animal species as well as their relationship to other animals, their local environment, and other outside factors.
Microbiology and Genetics: Unveiling the Microscopic World and Heredity
As a field, biology feels large and broad, and some scientists prefer to take a closer look at things. If you happen to be one of those biologists more interested in the details, then you may want to consider specializing in microbiology or genetics.
Microbiology is the study of living things that are microscopic — or, in other words, too small to be seen by the human eye. Microbiologists study the impact that microbes have on biological populations and ecosystems, and they often work with fungi, bacteria, viruses, and algae as part of their research.
Speaking of microscopic entities, there is the field of genetics, which is defined by the National Human Genome Research Institute as the study of inheritance. Genetic researchers often work with DNA samples to better understand the science of inheritance and how genetic factors impact biological growth and development.
How Biology Connects to Our Everyday Lives
Biology has a surprising number of everyday applications, with biological research and findings having a significant impact on the quality of life for living things of all shapes and sizes. Students who are considering a biology major will find that their studies are more than just philosophical. They are both critical and practical.
The Role of Biology in Medicine and Healthcare
In a sense, biology serves as the foundation for modern medicine and healthcare services. Biologists work to understand the chemical processes that make up life, which, in turn, gives them an opportunity to better understand the medical needs of both humans and animals. Biological research can help improve pharmaceuticals, surgical procedures, and clinical care practices.
Environmental Biology: Understanding Ecosystems and Biodiversity
As scientists and citizens begin to recognize the impact of climate change, the field of environmental biology has never been more important. Environmental biologists often conduct research to better understand the processes that exist within an ecosystem, and they can use their findings to improve biodiversity and ecological health. Environmental biology studies can help improve environmental planning, advance environmental legislation, and increase environmental monitoring and remediation.
The Application of Biology in Various Careers
Biology serves as the foundation for many career paths in a wide range of fields, from the healthcare industry to wildlife management. Students who study biology will find that they can develop specialized skills in a niche area of study.
Careers in Biomedical Research and Pharmaceutical Industries
There are a number of career opportunities in the biomedical research and pharmaceutical industries, according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS).
Opportunities in Environmental Conservation and Wildlife Management
Environmental scientists and specialists may find that there are career opportunities in both environmental conservation and wildlife management. The BLS provides some details.
The Evolution and Future of Biological Studies
Biology has long been a critical scientific branch, but it continues to evolve with the times, allowing those interested in biological studies to be at the forefront of new research and cutting-edge findings. The future of biological studies will be closely tied to technological advancement, particularly in the age of machine learning, automation, and artificial intelligence.
Technological Advances in Biology: From Microscopy to Genomics
Rapidly advancing technology will undoubtedly have an impact on all scientific branches, including biology. From microscopy to genomics, biologists will be working with the most recent technology to improve the precision of their studies and enhance the application of their findings. Synthetic biology will play a crucial role in this scientific field. Synthetic biology is an interdisciplinary field that involves the study of biology, digital information, and engineering systems. Essentially, synthetic biology provides a digital framework that allows scientists to conduct advanced research on living things.
The Growing Importance of Computational Biology in Research
Computational biology will play an essential role in the application of biology within the medical field and healthcare industry. Computational biology research is expected to have a wide range of applications, such as helping providers offer patients personalized medications, improving metagenomic sequencing processes, and creating more effective cancer treatment plans.
What Does the Field of Biology Study? Learn More at Post University
Still wondering “What does the field of biology study?” Luckily, at Post University, we offer an online Bachelor of Science in Biology degree that allows students to enjoy an in-depth exploration of this scientific field as they develop their research and analytical skills. The curriculum for this biology degree program offers coursework in a wide range of biology fields, such as microbiology, molecular biology, zoology, botany, anatomy, and physiology, to name a few.
Request more information about our biology degree program today.
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