University of Galway

Course Module Information

Course Modules

Semester 2 | Credits: 5

The aim of this module is to give students an understanding of intellectual property law in context. Students will become familiar with both the major pieces of legislation which govern intellectual property in Ireland today and with relevant case law. This study will also refer to European and international law and will engage with ethical debates, where appropriate. You will also gain an appreciation of the historical, theoretical and global setting of intellectual property law. The intersection between intellectual property and technology (computer and genetic), art and culture is also dealt with in some depth. We will have some hands on experience with how the law is applied and will also have a practical student led workshop to apply knowledge gained in class to artworks, created in class. Whether your goal is to practise law, to lecture, to go on to further study or to advise on policy issues relating to IP, this course will provide a solid practical and theoretical foundation for these future activities.
(Language of instruction: English)

Learning Outcomes
  1. Appreciate theoretical justifications for intellectual property law
  2. Understand the workings of intellectual property law in Ireland and to some extent, abroad. Have an appreciation of the dichotomy, in some areas at least, between law on the statute books, in the courts and the public's behaviour
  3. Gain a keen appreciation of the impact that technologies (the Internet, discovery of the DNA helix and genetic modification, for instance) have had on this area of the law and regulatory practice
  4. Introduction to the global nature of intellectual property rights including the concerns of various trading blocks that they remain competitive
  5. Gain familiarity with online resources, including library databases and free alternatives
Assessments
  • Written Assessment (100%)
Teachers
Reading List
  1. "Robert Clark, Shane Smyth and Niamh Hall's Intellectual Property Law in Ireland, 4th edn. 2016, Bloomsbury Professional Publishing" by n/a
  2. "Eva Nagle has also published Intellectual Property Law in 2012, Round Hall" by n/a
The above information outlines module LW356: "Industrial And Intellectual Property Law" and is valid from 2023 onwards.
Note: Module offerings and details may be subject to change.