FAQ

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Frequently Asked Questions

1. Q: Will Professor Rappaport's class in Telecommunications Law & Policy satisfy the elective requirement?

   A: No. As taught by Professor Rappaport, this class does not focus on intellectual property related issues and does not satisfy the elective requirement. 

2. Q: Do I need a science or technical background to specialize in intellectual property?
   A: No. While a science or technical background is required to take the Patent Bar, lack of a science background does not preclude one from concentrating in intellectual property. Many law students with liberal arts degrees, including our own Prof. Barrett (who holds bachelor and masters degrees in English literature), have gone on to become highly successful and influential intellectual property attorneys. Passing the Patent Bar is only required to become a Patent Attorney--a special designation for attorneys certified to represent clients before the United States Patent and Trademark Office. No such examination is necessary to practice copyright or trademark law, or even patent litigation.