Possession of a bachelor's degree in molecular biology, biology, or biochemistry (among many other fields), will suffice (see General Requirements Bulletin USPTO, 2012).
An individual with a law degree, but without the proper education or training in science or engineering will not meet the patent exam requirements. In addition to meeting the technical qualifications, every individual will have to show they possess good moral character and meet the citizenship requirements.
Some important categories of law include biology, and a few Biology majors head off to law school each year. Biology can be excellent background for particular areas of law, including patent law, biomedical law, and policy.
Possession of a bachelor's degree in molecular biology, biology, or biochemistry (among many other fields), will suffice (see General Requirements Bulletin USPTO, 2012). The USPTO also puts important restrictions on the registration of non-U.S. citizens (USPTO, 2012).
If you have an engineering or science degree or background you can take the Patent Office's Registration Exam to become a Patent Agent or Attorney!
Mechanical Engineering: Mechanical engineering covers a wide range of industries, including manufacturing, robotics, and automotive, making it a solid choice for patent law. Chemical Engineering: This field is crucial for patents related to chemicals, pharmaceuticals, and materials science.
Although obtaining a law degree is not essential after your PhD, it is recommended, and all patent agents must pass rigorous qualifying exams. Further down the road, training in patent law offers opportunities for in-house work in biotech companies, business development, and mergers and acquisitions.
Attend and graduate from law school Once you've completed a four-year undergraduate degree and passed the Law School Admission Test (LSAT), the next step to becoming a patent lawyer is to complete your Juris Doctor (JD) degree from an ABA-accredited law school.
Many former trainees begin their law careers as patent agents before completing their JDs to become patent attorneys. To become a patent agent, science graduates must pass the exam set by the US Patent and Trademark Office (PTO). If successful, they are allowed to write patents and represent clients before the PTO.
Here are six steps to become a patent attorney: Earn a science or engineering degree. Take the LSAT. Attend law school. Pass the state bar exam. Pass patent bar and register with USPTO. Consider additional specialized education.