.png&w=1920&q=75)
LL-M in Intellectual Property Law at SRM Institute of Science and Technology
Chengalpattu, Tamil Nadu
.png&w=1920&q=75)
About the Specialization
What is Intellectual Property Law at SRM Institute of Science and Technology Chengalpattu?
This Intellectual Property Law program at SRM Institute of Science and Technology focuses on the comprehensive legal framework protecting innovation and creativity in India. It delves into patents, copyrights, trademarks, geographical indications, and designs, equipping students with expertise crucial for the burgeoning Indian intellectual property landscape. The program emphasizes both domestic statutes and international conventions.
Who Should Apply?
This program is ideal for law graduates seeking specialized knowledge in intellectual property rights, aiming for careers in corporate legal departments, law firms, and IP consulting. It also suits legal professionals looking to upskill in areas like patent drafting, trademark prosecution, and IP litigation, vital for navigating India''''s rapidly evolving innovation ecosystem.
Why Choose This Course?
Graduates of this program can expect career paths as IP lawyers, patent attorneys, trademark agents, and legal advisors in various industries. Entry-level salaries in India typically range from INR 4-7 lakhs per annum, with experienced professionals earning significantly more. The program prepares students for roles in IP enforcement, policy advocacy, and technology transfer within Indian and multinational companies.
Student Success Practices
Foundation Stage
Master Core Legal Concepts and Research- (Semester 1-2)
Focus on building a strong foundation in legal research methodologies, comparative public law, and constitutional jurisprudence, which are essential for advanced IP studies. Attend workshops on legal databases and citation.
Tools & Resources
Manupatra, SCC Online, LexisNexis, SRMIST Library resources, Academic journals
Career Connection
Develops critical analytical and research skills vital for any legal career, especially for drafting legal opinions and conducting IP due diligence.
Engage with IPR Basics Early- (Semester 1-2)
Actively participate in discussions on IPR policy and philosophy, patents, copyrights, and trademarks. Form study groups to dissect landmark IP judgments and understand fundamental principles from the start.
Tools & Resources
Bare Acts of IP laws, Case law commentaries, WIPO publications, Legal blogs on IP
Career Connection
Creates a solid conceptual base for understanding complex IP issues and lays the groundwork for specialization in specific IP domains.
Cultivate Legal Writing and Argumentation Skills- (Semester 1-2)
Practice drafting legal essays, memos, and case briefs. Seek feedback from professors to refine writing style and argumentative structure, crucial for effective advocacy in IP disputes.
Tools & Resources
Legal writing guides, Faculty mentorship, Peer review sessions, Moot Court Society activities
Career Connection
Essential for drafting legal documents, applications for IP registration, and preparing arguments for litigation, directly impacting professional success.
Intermediate Stage
Deep Dive into International IP Law and Emerging Areas- (Semester 3)
Focus on understanding international IP treaties (TRIPs, Berne, Paris Conventions) and emerging areas like designs, plant varieties, traditional knowledge, and cyber IP. Attend guest lectures by IP experts.
Tools & Resources
WIPO website, WTO resources, Academic papers on specific IP areas, IP-focused webinars
Career Connection
Prepares for global IP roles and advises on cross-border IP protection, highly valued by multinational corporations and international law firms.
Initiate Dissertation Research and Mentorship- (Semester 3)
Identify a compelling research topic in IP, thoroughly review literature, and begin drafting the dissertation under faculty guidance. Actively seek feedback and refine methodology.
Tools & Resources
Research supervisors, Academic databases, Online research tools, SRMIST research cell
Career Connection
Develops independent research capabilities, a prerequisite for advanced legal research, policy formulation, and academic careers in IP.
Seek Practical IP Exposure through Internships- (Semester 3-4 (during breaks))
Apply for internships at IP law firms, corporate legal departments, or organizations like the Patent Office or DPIIT. Gain hands-on experience in IP prosecution, litigation support, and advisory work.
Tools & Resources
SRMIST Placement Cell, LinkedIn, Professional networking events
Career Connection
Bridges the gap between theory and practice, providing valuable industry insights and networking opportunities, significantly boosting employability.
Advanced Stage
Specialize in Niche IP Areas and Policy- (Semester 4)
Explore the interplay between IP and related fields like Competition Law and Cyber Law. Engage with policy debates around IP protection, licensing, and enforcement mechanisms in the Indian context.
Tools & Resources
Competition Commission of India (CCI) reports, IT Act, Cyber Law experts, Seminars on IP policy
Career Connection
Positions graduates as experts in specialized IP areas, enabling roles in policy think tanks, regulatory bodies, and specialized corporate divisions.
Refine Dissertation and Presentation Skills- (Semester 4)
Complete the dissertation with rigorous analysis and conclusions. Prepare for the viva voce by practicing presentation and defense of research findings, incorporating feedback.
Tools & Resources
Faculty mentors, Mock viva sessions, Presentation software
Career Connection
Enhances advanced research, critical thinking, and communication skills, crucial for senior legal advisory and leadership roles.
Network and Prepare for Placements/Higher Studies- (Semester 4)
Attend career fairs, alumni interactions, and industry events to build professional networks. Prepare a strong resume/CV and cover letter tailored for IP roles. Practice interview skills.
Tools & Resources
SRMIST Career Services, Alumni network, Professional IP associations (e.g., AIPPI India Group)
Career Connection
Directly facilitates securing desired employment or admission to further academic programs, leveraging professional connections for career advancement.
Program Structure and Curriculum
Eligibility:
- Candidate must have passed LL.B. / B.L. Degree from any recognized university with not less than 50% marks.
Duration: 2 years (4 semesters)
Credits: 70 Credits
Assessment: Internal: 40%, External: 60%
Semester-wise Curriculum Table
Semester 1
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| LLM20101C | Research Methodology and Legal Writing | Core | 4 | Legal Research Principles, Types of Research Methods, Data Collection Techniques, Statistical Tools in Research, Legal Writing and Citation, Structure of Research Report |
| LLM20102C | Comparative Public Law | Core | 4 | Concept of Constitution, Constitutionalism and Rule of Law, Fundamental Rights Comparative Perspective, Separation of Powers, Judicial Review, Administrative Law |
| LLM20103C | Law and Social Transformation in India | Core | 4 | Concepts of Social Change, Law as an Instrument of Social Change, Law and Weaker Sections, Law and Religion, Law and Environment, Criminal Justice System |
| LLM20104C | Constitutional Jurisprudence | Core | 4 | Nature of Constitutional Law, Principles of Constitutionalism, Basic Structure Doctrine, Federalism and Union-State Relations, Emergency Provisions, Amending Power of Parliament |
Semester 2
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| LLM20201S | Intellectual Property Rights: Policy and Philosophy | Specialization Core | 4 | Introduction to IPR, Theories and Rationale of IPR, Economic Perspectives on IPR, International IPR Frameworks, Role of WIPO and WTO, TRIPs Agreement Overview |
| LLM20202S | Law of Patents | Specialization Core | 4 | Patentability Criteria, Patent Granting Procedure, Rights of Patentee, Infringement and Defences, Compulsory Licensing, Biotechnology and Pharma Patents |
| LLM20203S | Law of Copyright | Specialization Core | 4 | Works Protected by Copyright, Authorship and Ownership, Rights of Copyright Holder, Infringement of Copyright, Fair Use and Exceptions, Digital Copyright Issues |
| LLM20204S | Law of Trademarks and Geographical Indications | Specialization Core | 4 | Types of Trademarks, Registration Process, Rights of Trademark Owner, Infringement and Passing Off, Geographical Indications Act, Protection of GIs |
Semester 3
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| LLM20301S | International Dimensions of Intellectual Property Law | Specialization Core | 4 | International IPR Treaties, WIPO and its Role, TRIPs Agreement Implementation, Berne Convention, Paris Convention, Digital IPR Challenges |
| LLM20302S | Law of Designs and Plant Varieties | Specialization Core | 4 | Industrial Designs Protection, Design Registration Process, Rights and Infringement of Designs, Plant Variety Protection Act, Farmers'''' Rights and Breeders'''' Rights, Bio-diversity Convention |
| LLM20303S | Intellectual Property Law and Traditional Knowledge | Specialization Core | 4 | Concept of Traditional Knowledge, Traditional Cultural Expressions, Biopiracy and Bioprospecting, Protection Mechanisms for TK, TKDL and its Significance, Indigenous Rights and IPR |
| LLM20304D | Dissertation - Phase I | Dissertation | 4 | Research Topic Identification, Extensive Literature Review, Formulation of Research Questions, Research Design and Methodology, Chapter Outline Preparation, Preliminary Draft Submission |
Semester 4
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| LLM20401S | Cyber Law and Intellectual Property | Specialization Core | 4 | IP in Cyberspace, Domain Names and Trademarks, Copyright in Digital Environment, Software Patents, Data Protection and IP, Cybercrime and IP |
| LLM20402S | Competition Law and Intellectual Property | Specialization Core | 4 | Interface between IPR and Competition Law, Abuse of Dominant Position, Anti-Competitive Agreements, IPR Licensing and Competition, Monopolies and IP, Technology Transfer Agreements |
| LLM20403E | Elective | Elective | 4 | Students choose from a range of elective subjects offered by the Faculty of Law, covering various areas of legal study. Specific topics depend on the chosen elective. |
| LLM20404D | Dissertation - Phase II | Dissertation | 4 | Data Analysis and Interpretation, Presentation of Findings, Formulation of Conclusions, Recommendations and Policy Implications, Final Dissertation Submission, Viva Voce Examination |
