FAQs

Do I need a background in Intellectual Property to enroll in the online Intellectual Property Law Basics Certificate program?
No, the online Intellectual Property Law Basics Certificate program does not require a background in Intellectual Property Law Basics. By the end of each module in the online Intellectual Property Law Basics Certificate program, participants will be armed with not only a basic understanding of that particular topic, but also a working knowledge of how to spot common issues in that area of Intellectual Property in a variety of contexts and the ability to apply that knowledge in a variety of practical applications.

I’m a lawyer. How can the online Intellectual Property Law Basics Certificate program benefit me?
The online Intellectual Property Law Basics Certificate program imparts knowledge that gives lawyers and professionals involved with new technologies and products a distinct advantage in dealing with legal issues related to products of the mind that have commercial value. By the end of each module in the Intellectual Property Law Basics program, participants will be armed with not only a basic understanding of that particular topic, but also a working knowledge of how to spot common issues in that area of Intellectual Property in a variety of contexts and the ability to apply that knowledge in a variety of practical applications.

What is the timing for the modules in the online Intellectual Property Law Basics?
All modules in the online Intellectual Property Law Basics Certificate program are completely online, asynchronous, and available on demand. Program participants can learn at their own pace as they watch engaging videos, answer “check your knowledge” questions, and quizzes, and complete exercises to help solidify their understanding of Intellectual Property Law Basics.

Are there any required modules in the online Intellectual Property Law Basics Certificate program?
No, program participants may opt to focus on a specific area of interest—patent, copyright, trademarks, or trade secrets—by registering for a single module, or complete all four modules to earn a non-degree certificate.

Are there any prerequisite courses required before enrolling in the online Intellectual Property Law Basics Certificate program?
No, there are not any required courses prior to enrolling in any module in the online Intellectual Property Law Basics Certificate program.

What is the cost to enroll in the Intellectual Property Law Basics Certificate program?
Each module in the Intellectual Property Law Basics Certificate program, Copyright Law Basics, Patent Law Basics, Trade Secret Law Basics, and Trademark Law Basics, is $1,500 per module. The price for buying all four modules as a single package is $5,000.

How do I get my certificate?
When a participant has completed all four modules in the Intellectual Property Law Basics Certificate program, they must contact the Director of Intellectual Property Programs, Jenn Karnakis, to request their certificate.

Are there available scholarships?
Yes. Limited scholarship support based on need is available. Potential participants who are seeking scholarship support are encouraged to contact Jenn Karnakis to submit a statement of need prior to enrolling in any of the certificate modules.

As a non-credit program, the online Intellectual Property Law Basics Certificate is not eligible for federal financial aid.

How do I enroll in the online Intellectual Property Law Basics Certificate program?
The online Intellectual Property Law Basics Certificate program is currently being transitioned to a new learning management system site, and we are unable to enroll students at this time.

If you would like to be notified when the Intellectual Property Law Basics Certificate program is accepting new students again, please contact Jenn Karnakis, and she will send you an email when enrollment has reopened.

If I enroll in the online Intellectual Property Law Basics Certificate program and have problems accessing the course, how do I get help?
You will use the web-based learning management system Canvas to access your module(s) in the Online Intellectual Property Law Basics Certificate program.

If you need help accessing Canvas, please contact the Information Technology Service Desk at 617-557-2000 or through email and explain your issue.

Please note that Canvas, the web-based learning management system where the Intellectual Property Law Basics Online Law Basics program resides, will time out after a period of inactivity. If you are taking a course in the online Intellectual Property Law Basics Certificate program and cannot see the images or access the videos, your session in Canvas has most likely timed out. Please close your browser and log in again to Canvas to start a new session.