Applied Biology with Biotechnology

The Bachelor of Applied Biology with Biotechnology at The Hong Kong Polytechnic University offers students a comprehensive and practical education in the rapidly advancing fields of biology and biotechnology. This programme is designed to equip students with a strong foundation in biological sciences, combined with specialized training in biotechnological techniques and applications. Throughout the coursework, students gain hands-on experience in laboratory research, experimental design, and data analysis, preparing them for diverse career opportunities in healthcare, pharmaceuticals, agriculture, environmental management, and the biotech industry.

The curriculum covers key areas such as molecular biology, microbiology, genetics, biochemistry, and cell biology, complemented by modules focused on biotechnology methods, including genetic engineering, enzyme technology, fermentation technology, and bioinformatics. Emphasis is placed on practical skills, ethical considerations, and innovative problem-solving approaches, enabling students to adapt to the evolving technological landscape. The programme incorporates industry attachments and project work, fostering real-world understanding and professional readiness.

Students benefit from state-of-the-art laboratories, expert faculty members with extensive research backgrounds, and active collaborations with industry partners. These partnerships facilitate internships, seminars, and networking opportunities, ensuring students are well-prepared for employment or postgraduate study upon graduation. Additionally, the programme promotes critical thinking, communication skills, and teamwork, essential attributes in the biotechnology sector. Graduates of this programme are positioned to contribute effectively to scientific research, quality control, product development, and bioindustry management, making a positive impact on society’s health, sustainability, and technological advancement.

Compulsory Core Subjects

• Cell Biology
• General Microbiology Laboratory
• Human Physiology
• General Microbiology
• Genetics
• Fundamental Biochemistry
• Metabolism
• Perspectives in Biotechnology
• Environmental Science
• DNA Technology
• Biochemical Techniques
• Pharmacology and Toxicology
• Microbial Biotechnology
• Professionalism in Biotechnology and Chemical Technology
• Organic Chemistry
• Bioprocess Engineering Principles
• Project

Students are required to take the following as core compulsory subjects:

• Elementary Calculus
• Introduction to Statistics
• Fundamentals of Chinese Communication
• English for University Studies
• English for Technical Writing
• General Studies I
• General Studies II

Students are required to opt for 3 to 6 credits from the following subjects:

• Fundamentals of Programming
• Introduction to Economics
• Microbial Biotechnology
• Management and Organization
• Marketing Channel Management
• Internet Marketing

Elective Subjects

• General Chemistry
• Analytical Chemistry I
• Analytical Chemistry II
• Analytical Chemistry II Laboratory
• Chemical and Bioprocess Technology
• Principles of Nutrition
• Food Chemistry
• Food Microbiology
• Development and Commercialization of Biotechnology Products
• Experimental Approach to Molecular Biology and Biochemistry
• Protein Biotechnology & Pharmaceuticals
• Immunobiology
• Bioinformatics
• Selected Topics in Cell & Molecular Biology
• Environmental Biotechnology
• Pollution Control & Environmental Analysis
• Life Cycle Nutrition
• Principles of Quality Assurance / Quality & Food Safety Management
• Food Processing Technology
• Food Technology Laboratory
• Medicinal Chemistry

Requirements

• Application fee HK$450
• GCE A-level / International A-level
• International Baccalaureate (IB)
• A minimum score of 24 with at least grade 4 in 2 Higher Level subjects
• A Test of English as a Foreign Language (TOEFL) score of 80 for the Internet-based test or 550 for the paper-based test;
  OR
• An overall Band Score of 6 in the International English Language Testing System (IELTS).
• Applicants attaining good results in science subjects (biology, chemistry and/or physics) are preferred.

Want to improve your English level for admission?

Prepare for the program requirements with English Online by the British Council.

• ✔️ Flexible study schedule
• ✔️ Experienced teachers
• ✔️ Certificate upon completion

📘 Recommended for students with an IELTS level of 6.0 or below.

Enroll in the course

The Hong Kong Polytechnic University offers a range of financial options to support students enrolled in the Applied Biology with Biotechnology program. Undergraduate students are encouraged to explore various sources of funding to ease the financial burden of their studies. The university provides scholarships based on academic excellence, leadership qualities, and other specific criteria. The PolyU Scholarship Scheme is available for high-achieving students, offering significant financial awards that can substantially offset tuition fees and living costs. Additionally, the Hong Kong Government offers government bursaries and grants for full-time students from eligible backgrounds, which may include the Student Finance Office's Financial Assistance Scheme. Students can also apply for external scholarships and sponsorships from private organizations, industry partners, and charitable foundations aiming to support students pursuing science and technology degrees.

Part-time employment opportunities are available on-campus, allowing students to earn supplementary income while gaining practical experience related to their field of study. The university's Career Services unit assists students in finding part-time roles, internships, and industry placements, which can contribute toward their overall educational expenses. Furthermore, some students may choose to apply for student loans, which are designed to cover tuition fees and other necessary expenses, with repayment options after graduation. The university also collaborates with industry partners to offer internship programs that sometimes include stipends, providing both financial and professional development benefits.

Financial aid packages are often made available to students demonstrating significant financial need, with the application process typically requiring submission of supporting documentation such as income statements or salary proofs. It is advisable for students to thoroughly explore the financial aid options early in their studies and maintain proactive communication with the university’s Financial Aid Office. Overall, the combination of scholarships, grants, loans, and part-time work opportunities ensures that students enrolled in the Applied Biology with Biotechnology program at PolyU can access diverse financial resources to support their academic journey and career development.

The Bachelor of Applied Biology with Biotechnology at The Hong Kong Polytechnic University is a comprehensive undergraduate programme designed to equip students with a strong foundation in biological sciences, coupled with specialized training in biotechnology. The programme aims to prepare graduates for careers in various sectors such as pharmaceuticals, agriculture, environmental management, and bioindustrial applications. The curriculum integrates theoretical knowledge with practical skills, emphasizing laboratory work, research projects, and industry attachments to ensure students gain real-world experience. Throughout the course, students explore core subjects including molecular biology, genetics, microbiology, biochemistry, and cell biology, with a focus on applications within the biotechnology industry. The programme also emphasizes the development of critical thinking, problem-solving, and communication skills essential for scientific innovation and effective teamwork. Students have access to state-of-the-art laboratories and research facilities at the university, enabling hands-on learning and experimentation. The programme often includes internships or cooperative education components with industry partners, providing students with valuable professional exposure and networking opportunities. Graduates of this degree are well-positioned to pursue careers in research and development, quality control, product innovation, or further studies in postgraduate programmes. The interdisciplinary approach of the curriculum, combining applied biology with biotechnology, ensures that students are prepared for both scientific challenges and commercial applications, addressing current industry needs and future technological advancements. The programme is designed to foster a global outlook, encouraging students to engage with international scientific communities and to partake in collaborative projects. Overall, the Bachelor of Applied Biology with Biotechnology from The Hong Kong Polytechnic University offers a rigorous and dynamic educational experience, aligning academic excellence with practical industry requirements to cultivate highly skilled professionals in the biotechnology field.