Intellectual Property Law Track

This track exposes students to the law of trademarks, copyrights and patents. Spurred by new technology and a global economy, the field has grown dramatically in recent years.

The practice of intellectual property law — covering the law of trademarks, copyrights, patents — has grown exponentially in recent years, spurred by technology and a global economy.

Intellectual property refers to creations of the mind: inventions, literary and artistic works, and symbols, names, images, and designs used in commerce. Trademark law encompasses both registered and unregistered marks that identify goods as well as services or organizations. Copyright law provides protection to those who create literary, musical and other such works of authorship. Patent law  protects inventions, and is conventionally subdivided by technology.  Practice in this area is often divided between prosecution and acquisition of rights, and involves litigation, alternative dispute resolution and licensing.

It’s a popular field and jobs are currently at a premium. Intellectual property attorneys often work for large law firms or in specialized boutique firms.

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Course Types

We have classified RWU Law classes under the following headers. One of the following course types will be attached to each course which will allow students to narrow down their search while looking for classes.

Core Course

Students in the first and second year are required to take classes covering the following aspects of the law—contracts, torts, property, criminal law, civil procedure, and constitutional law, evidence, and professional responsibility.  Along with these aspects, the core curriculum will develop legal reasoning skills.

Elective

After finishing the core curriculum the remaining coursework toward the degree is completed through upper level elective courses.  Students can choose courses that peak their interests or courses that go along with the track they are following.

Seminar

Seminars are classes where teachers and small groups of students focus on a specific topic and the students complete a substantial research paper.

Clinics/Externships

Inhouse Clinics and Clinical Externships legal education is law school training in which students participate in client representation under the supervision of a practicing attorney or law professor.  RWU Law's Clinical Programs offer unique and effective learning opportunities and the opportunity for practical experience while still in law school.