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LL-M in Intellectual Property at Indian Institute of Technology Kharagpur
Paschim Medinipur, West Bengal
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About the Specialization
What is Intellectual Property at Indian Institute of Technology Kharagpur Paschim Medinipur?
This Intellectual Property program at IIT Kharagpur focuses on the intricate legal aspects surrounding innovation and creativity. Leveraging IIT Kharagpur’s strong technical background, it offers a unique interdisciplinary approach combining law with technology and management. The program is crucial given India''''s rapidly growing tech and startup ecosystem, where IP protection and commercialization are paramount.
Who Should Apply?
This program is ideal for law graduates seeking expertise in technology law, legal professionals aiming to upskill in IP, and individuals with a science or engineering background interested in the legal framework of innovation. It caters to those aspiring for roles in patent prosecution, IP litigation, technology transfer, or corporate IP strategy in India.
Why Choose This Course?
Graduates of this program can expect to secure roles in top-tier law firms, corporate legal departments, R&D organizations, and government IP offices in India. Entry to mid-level salaries for specialized IP roles typically range from INR 5-15 LPA, with significant growth potential. The program aligns with the demands for qualified IP professionals in India''''s booming technology sectors.
Student Success Practices
Foundation Stage
Master Core Legal Theories & Research- (Semester 1-2)
Dedicate significant time to understanding advanced jurisprudence, legal philosophy, and comparative public law. Simultaneously, meticulously develop your legal research and writing skills, as they form the bedrock for all subsequent studies and dissertation work.
Tools & Resources
SCC Online, Manupatra, LexisNexis India, JSTOR
Career Connection
A strong foundation ensures a deep understanding of legal principles, essential for complex IP analysis and effective legal argumentation in any future role.
Engage in Academic Discussions & Debates- (Semester 1-2)
Actively participate in classroom discussions, seminars, and create study groups with peers. Debating complex legal concepts, constitutional issues, and global legal challenges enhances critical thinking and helps internalize diverse perspectives.
Tools & Resources
Peer study groups, Departmental seminars, Legal debate clubs
Career Connection
Develops strong analytical and communication skills, crucial for advocacy, client consultations, and effective teamwork in legal practice.
Explore Interdisciplinary Electives- (Semester 1-2)
Utilize IIT Kharagpur''''s interdisciplinary environment to explore elective courses related to technology, engineering, or management. Understanding the technical aspects of innovation will uniquely position you for a career in IP law.
Tools & Resources
IIT KGP Course Catalogue, Faculty advisors
Career Connection
Bridges the gap between law and technology, highly valued in IP law firms and corporate legal teams dealing with technical innovations.
Intermediate Stage
Deep Dive into IP Laws & Treaties- (Semester 3)
Beyond classroom learning, conduct independent research on landmark IP cases in India and internationally. Gain an exhaustive understanding of patent, copyright, trademark, and international IP treaties, focusing on their practical application.
Tools & Resources
WIPO resources, IPAB judgments, Indian Patent Office website
Career Connection
Builds specialized knowledge crucial for becoming an expert in specific areas of IP, making you highly valuable to employers.
Participate in IP Moot Courts & Competitions- (Semester 3)
Actively seek opportunities to participate in national and international moot court competitions focusing on Intellectual Property law. These provide invaluable hands-on experience in legal research, drafting, and oral advocacy.
Tools & Resources
Mooting societies, Faculty mentors, Previous moot propositions
Career Connection
Sharpens advocacy, legal reasoning, and presentation skills, directly transferable to litigation and advisory roles in IP.
Network with IP Professionals & Intern- (Semester 3)
Attend IP conferences, webinars, and workshops. Proactively connect with IP lawyers, patent agents, and corporate IP managers. Seek internships at reputed IP law firms, corporate legal departments, or technology transfer offices to gain practical exposure.
Tools & Resources
LinkedIn, IP associations (e.g., AIPPI India), Career Services
Career Connection
Builds a professional network, provides real-world experience, and often leads to pre-placement offers or valuable career insights.
Advanced Stage
Undertake a Comprehensive Dissertation- (Semester 4)
Choose a relevant and impactful IP topic for your dissertation. Conduct rigorous, original research, contributing to existing scholarship. This showcases your expertise and ability to conduct independent, high-level legal analysis.
Tools & Resources
Academic databases, Faculty supervisors, Research software
Career Connection
Demonstrates advanced research and analytical capabilities, highly regarded for research-oriented roles, think tanks, or academia, and enhances credibility for specialized IP practice.
Strategic Placement Preparation for IP Roles- (Semester 4)
Tailor your resume and interview skills specifically for IP-centric roles. Practice case studies related to patent drafting, copyright infringement, or trademark disputes. Leverage the institute''''s placement cell and alumni network for guidance.
Tools & Resources
Placement Cell, Alumni network, Online interview platforms
Career Connection
Maximizes your chances of securing placements in desired IP roles by effectively showcasing your specialized skills and knowledge.
Continuous Professional Development & Industry Updates- (Semester 4 and beyond)
Stay abreast of the latest amendments in IP laws, emerging technologies impacting IP, and significant judicial pronouncements in India and globally. Consider pursuing professional certifications or short courses in specific IP areas.
Tools & Resources
IP blogs and journals, Legal news portals, WIPO Academy courses
Career Connection
Ensures long-term career growth, adaptability to evolving legal landscapes, and positions you as a thought leader in the dynamic field of Intellectual Property.
Program Structure and Curriculum
Eligibility:
- First Class (at least 60% marks or CGPA/CPI of 6.5 on a 10 point scale) in Bachelor of Laws (LL.B.) / B.L. (5 years integrated or 3 years after Graduation) from any recognized University. For SC/ST/PwD candidates, the minimum performance in the qualifying degree is 55% marks or CGPA/CPI of 6.0 on a 10 point scale.
Duration: 2 years (4 semesters)
Credits: 64 Credits
Assessment: Internal: undefined, External: undefined
Semester-wise Curriculum Table
Semester 1
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| LE61001 | Research Methodology | Core | 4 | Introduction to Research, Research Design, Data Collection, Data Analysis, Research Report Writing, Legal Research Ethics |
| LE61002 | Advanced Jurisprudence | Core | 4 | Schools of Jurisprudence, Theories of Law, Rights and Duties, Justice Theories, Legal Positivism, Natural Law |
| LE61003 | Legal Theory and Philosophy | Core | 4 | Theories of Justice, Constitutionalism, Human Rights Philosophy, Rule of Law, Critical Legal Studies, Feminist Jurisprudence |
| LE61004 | Comparative Public Law | Core | 4 | Constitutional Systems, Administrative Law, Human Rights Protection, Comparative Legal Systems, Public Interest Litigation, Judicial Review |
Semester 2
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| LE61005 | Law and Justice in a Globalized World | Core | 4 | Globalization''''s Impact on Law, International Legal Institutions, Transnational Law, Global Governance, Human Rights, International Trade Law |
| LE61006 | Contemporary Issues in Indian Constitutional Law | Core | 4 | Basic Structure Doctrine, Federalism, Fundamental Rights, Directive Principles, Judicial Activism, Constitutional Amendments |
| LE61007 | Administrative Law and Governance | Core | 4 | Principles of Administrative Law, Delegated Legislation, Natural Justice, Judicial Review of Administrative Action, Public Corporations, Good Governance |
| LE61008 | Principles of Corporate Law and Governance | Core | 4 | Company Formation, Corporate Personality, Shareholders and Directors, Corporate Finance, Mergers and Acquisitions, Corporate Social Responsibility |
Semester 3
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| LE61011 | Law of Patents | Elective | 4 | Patentability Criteria, Patent Application Process, Patent Rights, Patent Infringement, Compulsory Licensing, International Patent Treaties |
| LE61012 | Law of Copyrights | Elective | 4 | Copyrightable Works, Authorship and Ownership, Rights of Copyright Holders, Copyright Infringement, Fair Use, Digital Copyright |
| LE61013 | Law of Trademarks | Elective | 4 | Trademark Registration, Types of Marks, Trademark Infringement, Passing Off, Domain Names, Geographical Indications |
| LE61014 | International Intellectual Property Law | Elective | 4 | TRIPS Agreement, WIPO Treaties, Paris Convention, Berne Convention, PCT and Madrid Protocol, International Enforcement |
Semester 4
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| LE61040 | Dissertation | Project | 12 | Research Topic Selection, Literature Review, Methodology Development, Data Analysis and Interpretation, Thesis Writing, Oral Defense |
| LE61015 | Intellectual Property Management and Commercialization | Elective | 4 | IP Strategy and Portfolio Management, Valuation of IP Assets, Licensing and Technology Transfer, IP Audits and Due Diligence, IP in Business and Startups, Innovation Management |
