I am a student in biology, and was thinking of getting work experience at the USPTO as an examiner before applying to law schools. Official Transcripts.In order to qualify for the Patent Exam, you will need at least a bachelor's degree in one of the specified fields of science or engineering. Since the purpose of the Patent Bar Exam is to test the applicant's understanding of patenting and patent law, there are no further requirements in this area. Advice on how to prepare for careers in patent law with a biology PhD. Patent lawyers must have a bachelor's degree in science or engineering. I am also a frequent contributor to industry publications in both the United States and China, sharing my insights on patent, trademark, and copyright. Both Patent Agents and Attorneys must either have a degree (B. You can only apply for admission to the patent bar if you have an underlying degree in a scientific or technical field. It is a 45- credit hours program (rather than the 66 credit hours it would require to complete both.