Monash University Handbook 2011 Postgraduate - Unit

Refer to the specific census and withdrawal dates for the semester(s) in which this unit is offered.

Synopsis

This unit is designed to meet the requirements of the Professional Standards Board for Trade Marks and Patent Attorneys ("the Board") in relation to an overview of intellectual and industrial property. As such, it provides an overview of all aspects of intellectual and industrial property including trade marks, copyright, patents, designs, circuit layouts, plant breeders' rights and confidential information. It will also examine the major international intellectual property treaties and the relationship of intellectual and industrial property with consumer protection legislation and restrictive trade practices legislation.

Objectives

1. To have an understanding of the nature and objectives of the common law and statutory regimes protecting trade marks, patents, copyright, designs, confidential information, circuit layouts and plant breeders' rights.
2. To acquire a basic knowledge of the subject matter that is eligible for protection under these laws.
3. To provide basic advice to inventors, authors, traders and other enterprises on their rights and liabilities under these laws.
4. To meet the requirements of the Professional Standards Board for Patent and Trade Marks Attorneys in relation to an Overview of Intellectual Property (topic group A, part 2).
5. To acquire an appreciation of the basic features of the international rules governing the protection of intellectual property.

Assessment

Take home examination (3,750 words): 50%
Research assignment (3,750 words): 50%

Chief examiner(s)

Mr Ian Horak (Semester 1)
Dr Stephen Gray (Semester 2)

Contact hours

24 contact hours per semester (either intensive, semi-intensive or semester long, depending on the Faculty resources, timetabling and requirements)