The Best Technical Background to Become a Patent Attorney

[@PatentsDemystified]

Looking for more videos on patent careers? Check out the full playlist of all my patent career videos here: kzbin.info/aero/PLp15JXznBjPWV7v0dD50ZdOvPfXMuo_yN Playlist includes the following and many more: Patent Attorney Day in the Life: What do Patent Attorneys Do?: kzbin.info/www/bejne/mXS0hZ6LntuZaZY Patent Attorney Career: How to Become a Patent Attorney: kzbin.info/www/bejne/sJi9gKqlaM5rhbM Is Being a Patent Attorney a Good Job?: kzbin.info/www/bejne/eWaqfGyIprupjbs What Do Patent Attorneys Do Day to Day?: kzbin.info/www/bejne/sJLKhmWkhpKEp9E Can a Patent Attorney Work Remotely?: kzbin.info/www/bejne/hGLNc2mMjcqcgKc How to Qualify for the Patent Bar: kzbin.info/www/bejne/aHLIpYeefrWjg68 When to Take the Patent Bar: kzbin.info/www/bejne/rGKaZZyjeql3nNk Working with The USPTO: kzbin.info/www/bejne/p5TbY4ajls6njqM How Long Does it Take to Become a Patent Attorney?: kzbin.info/www/bejne/nqrVqIxqod6FbJo Patent Attorney vs. Patent Litigator: kzbin.info/www/bejne/jaiQg5uDnZ2reLc Patent Attorney vs. Patent Agent: kzbin.info/www/bejne/l4KmZKGHotecapI Patent Attorney vs. Patent Lawyer: kzbin.info/www/bejne/Y3TKl3pjmJKggbM

[@ben9047]

It’s great to see a channel like this, as there are so few patent attorneys to talk to. I’m pursuing a career as a patent attorney with a BS in Electrical Engineering. I’ll be a third-year law student in few months and plan to take the California bar. I was wondering how important it is to obtain a Master’s degree in Electrical Engineering to get hired by law firms. Also, do you have any advice for job applications? For example, should I attend specific networking events? Speaking of which, which events are worth attending? My ultimate goal is to find job opportunities, but I’d also love to make some genuine connections and relationships. I apologize for such a loaded question! Have a great day!

[@PatentsDemystified]

You should be fine with a BS in EE. It's the most in demand background for patent attorneys, so no need to go out an get a Masters. You really hit on something when you say "make some genuine connections and relationships." That's probably my biggest suggestion for folks when it comes to folks networking to find a job. Go into it with the goal of just learning more about the practice of patent law and making some genuine connections and relationships with folks, and you're going to set yourself up for success. Reach out to a bunch of patent attorneys and ask them for a quick video call to ask them for some career advice and to learn more about their practice, what being a patent attorney is like and how they got to where they are now. Some may not reply, but many will, and you'll learn a lot from these interactions with them. Make sure to connect with folks you meet on LinkedIn as well and take some time to engage with content they put out. All this can be a great way to learn about opportunities that come up and uncover insider tips on how to be viewed as a better candidate and just generally be more comfortable around patent folks, which will help you in interviews and networking. I can't say I'm aware of any specific events to go to, but there might be some out there. Honestly, I think you get better ROI from reaching out to folks individually and building relationships than going to events, but you should try out different things and see what your style is and what works for you.

[@ben9047]

@@PatentsDemystified hello. I really appreciate your thoughtful and kind response! You don't know how much your message meant to me! So thank you! I will take on your advice and try to connect on LinkedIn. I'm very lucky to find your channel. Have a great day.

[@coledelong427]

How much of a disadvantage would I be at if I went straight from undergrad EE to a patent agent job then law school rather than working in industry first?

[@PatentsDemystified]

It wouldn’t be too much of a disadvantage, and definitely not enough that I would suggest delaying a patent career to work in industry first. This is especially true with an EE degree. You might even be able to find a patent job while you are in undergrad- especially if you mention you are studying to take the patent bar.

[@johnferrellesq.]

Nice video. Very honest advice. Keep up the great videos.

[@PatentsDemystified]

Thanks! I appreciate it.

[@AndrewPick6]

Should I go to law school first, test the job market to see if the demand for patent attorneys is high enough for graduates with only a BS and then possibly get a masters or get the masters first? The big issue with going back to school after law school would be the debt.

[@PatentsDemystified]

Hi Andrew, ten years ago I would have told you that having at least a masters if not a PhD would be necessary to really have a chance at really getting good traction with a career in biotech patent law, but the market has changed a lot since then and it's much easier to get a good job with just a BS. That being said, if your goal is to get top jobs as a biotech patent attorney a masters would probably be a good idea and it would be better to get it before you go to law school. That way, you'll have an easier time getting into a better law school and will immediately have an easier time getting better jobs. It's definitely not like that for all patent attorney practices. For example, if you had a BS in EE or CS I would say definitely skip the masters and go straight to law school.

[@AndrewPick6]

@@PatentsDemystified Thanks for the response! I appreciate it!

[@KevlarSammy]

A couple more semesters to get my EEE degree. I am looking for my next step now. It looks like law schools take applications 1 time a year.

[@PatentsDemystified]

Yea, most law schools take applications around the same time of year. Consider taking the patent bar if you have a gap year. Will help with law school applications and with getting a good job sooner.

[@autumn_b905]

Great video. I graduated law school already but I don't have the technical degree. I am considering going back to school to meet the technical requirements.

[@PatentsDemystified]

Thanks! You should do it if it’s not too much trouble. Being a patent attorney is an enjoyable and rewarding practice. What technical background would you be getting?

[@autumn_b905]

@@PatentsDemystified likely I would take 40 credits of physics and engineering or computer science. It looks like there is an option to take 4 computer science courses towards the requirement. In undergrad, I actually was an engineering major but switched because I wasn't good at math. I regret it now.

[@PatentsDemystified]

Yea, I’m not that great at math either but I’m glad I just powered through my EE and Biochemistry degrees anyway. Luckily, you don’t need much math for the vast vast majority of patent work.

[@egyptian_thoth]

This video is gold! Thank you! Very well explained and I'm so happy to hear how Computer Science is a great degree to have to be a patent agent. I had seen so many videos and they seemed to suggest that having a degree, specifically a Ph.D., in the Biological Sciences was the best option. I am going to do more research into how a degree in Computer Science could work and what courses/training would make it a better option for me because I know getting any degree in Engineering is not an option at this point.

[@PatentsDemystified]

Thanks! Be sure to check out the specific requirements for Computer Science degrees at the USPTO website at the link below. They need to have a certain accreditation to count. www.uspto.gov/sites/default/files/documents/OED_GRB.pdf You might consider Electrical Engineering as well - these days an EE program is not much different than a CS degree and you can often structure it to be very similar. At least mine was like that. CS would still be a great choice though and would be very in-demand. If you are looking for more on what it's like to be a patent attorney or agent be sure to check out my full playlist on the subject: kzbin.info/aero/PLp15JXznBjPWV7v0dD50ZdOvPfXMuo_yN

[@egyptian_thoth]

@@PatentsDemystified Thank you for your detailed response! I have a BS in Neuroscience on the Behavioral Biology spectrum, so I need about 3 courses to qualify for the patent agent exam. I was going to take 3 CompSci courses to qualify for the patent bar and count towards my CompSci MS in the near future. So, now I'll look into EE as well. I just figured I would have to take too many more courses to qualify for an MS in EE. I'm doing a career change and have been searching and searching for a career that is sustainable but also can be rewarding and flexible. Also, Do you offer paid career consulting services (e.g. phone call for 15-30 mins etc.)?

[@PatentsDemystified]

Nice. Good to hear that you are really close to qualifying - that will definitely make things easier for you. I don't offer formal or paid career consulting services, but glad to schedule a time to chat if it would be helpful. Reach out to me via e-mail, which can be found on my firm website: www.dwt.com/people/a/adams-dylan-o

[@hjhungjenwu]

The USPTO bar requirements seem to have changed from the ones you presented in the video. Initially Category A and B was limited to a bachelor's degree in a technical field, but now it's for Bachelor's or Master's or PhD? So if my bachelor's wasn't in any of the listed major options but my master's and PhD are then I can still take the patent bar, right?

[@PatentsDemystified]

Yes, that’s correct. A qualifying Masters or PhD will work as well. The requirements do change, so folks should always check the current requirements, which are here: www.uspto.gov/sites/default/files/documents/OED_GRB.pdf

[@ccat9354]

I’m curious about the CS degrees and the accredited caveat. If a school is regionally accredited in the U.S. and has the ABET-CAC accreditation, is that sufficient? I worked in an IT trade in the military, a lot of us get a bachelors from WGU and other online, accredited schools (i’m partway through mine), and I’m considering using my GI Bill for law school. Would that (along with several industry certs and years in that field) work or not likely/not enough prestige and traditional academic weight? Thank you for the awesome channel and resources! 🙏

[@PatentsDemystified]

I think the requirement for ABET certification for CS degrees was removed earlier this year (www.jdsupra.com/legalnews/new-admission-criteria-to-practice-8539143/) and all that's required is that a "Computer Science degree must be a Bachelor of Science degree from an accredited college or university." The updated USPTO admission requirements have details on what's required to qualify (www.uspto.gov/sites/default/files/documents/OED_GRB.pdf). Also, I've heard from some folks that calling the USPTO can be helpful if you have any questions about what will qualify and what won't - it can be pretty confusing. As far as your background making you a good candidate, hands on technical experience is often seen as being just as good as academic experience, and sometimes even better. You definitely want to highlight both in job applications.

[@danhuynh7743]

Hey Dylan! I absolutely love your content and it has been extremely educational and informative! I was wondering what your opinion is on what specific electrical engineering discipline is going to be the most in demand in the future. Do you think it will be electronics, RF and microwave processing, power and renewable, or communications and signal processing? Thank you in advance for your answer, Dylan!

[@PatentsDemystified]

As far as being in demand in the patent field, specific disciplines like these don't tend to be in demand specifically and what's more important is having relevant experience and ability to learn and write about a variety of technology. Patent work tends to be pretty diverse, so being too specialized can actually be a bad thing. That being said, experience with AI, cloud computing, cryptography, and blockchain are probably going to be pretty in demand for awhile. Still, for folks getting an EE or CS degree and wanting to get into patents, I suggest trying to get as broad of an education as possible instead of focusing on something specific and also trying to get hands on experience with developing technology - ideally with both hardware and software.

[@aishazafar579]

I have a degree in Sociology as well as some Computer Science credits that I decided to never complete on a degree level (because I was young and didn't think I wanted/needed it). I qualify to do the patent bar with the credits I do have. However, I'm concerned that when entering the workforce I will not have much success due to a lack of a technical degree. I'm not very inclined to get my Master's in CS considering law school and all the time that it takes. Is it possible to get your foot in the door without the degree?

[@PatentsDemystified]

Yea, it will be harder without a degree, but not impossible and it depends on the relevant skills and experience you have and how you spin it. For example, if have some personal or professional computer experience, that will help overcome not having an official degree.

[@mardi8708]

Thank you for your informative videos! I have a BS Biology, MS Biochemistry and am considering either Patent Prosecution or Litigation. I’ve heard an MS in Biochemistry is likely not sufficient for prosecution. I’m wondering if it would be worthwhile to obtain an MS in Computer Science to help land a job in prosecution. Thoughts?

[@PatentsDemystified]

You bet. Thanks for watching them! It depends on what sort of prosecution you want to do. If you want to do biotech or chemistry work then a MSCS won’t help much, but would probably be essential if you want to be competitive for computer-related prosecution. It’s easier to get biotech/chem prosecution jobs with just a MS these days, but it’s still a substantially smaller market than for computer work, so having a MSCS will give you way more options long term. Have you taken the patent bar yet?

[@mardi8708]

@@PatentsDemystified Thanks for the information! I am currently studying for and planning to take the patent bar in May.

[@thispersonrighthere9024]

this is what i've been seeing on various forums as well. for the hard sciences, they want a PhD, but for engineering and computer science, they just want a master's.😒

[@PatentsDemystified]

You don’t necessarily need a masters for CS or EE. We hire folks with just a BS in CS or EE all the time.

[@thidao3926]

Hi, I'm graduating from Georgia Tech in Spring 2025 with a bachelor's in chemical engineering, and I've developed in interest in going into patent law after doing some research and finding that the work and associated lifestyle and salary are all ideal for me. I'm planning on taking the patent bar soon and potentially finding work as a chemical patent agent, but from web searching, it's been hard to find any positions hiring, and those hiring require some years of experience. I'm really set on going on patent law though, so I'm considering obtaining a masters in Electrical Engineering, so I can be employed in the hard sciences side of patent prosecution (unfortunately ChemEs mainly work in plants, and I found I hated this although I loved the degree, and the salary ceiling even with extensive experience is too low for me). Would you be able to give insight on whether a masters in EE would be good enough to be employed as a patent agent in EE? Or would that be heavily frowned upon since the bachelor's wasn't obtained? I'm planning on taking supplementary courses or the required prerequisites for EE before starting the masters. And what if that masters is from a top school like Georgia Tech or Cornell? I'm really set on patent law, so I can't shake that I want to go into this career path. And I really regret studying ChemE (although I liked it) since the life sciences side of patent law really requires advanced study like a Phd. But I really want to be a patent attorney.

[@PatentsDemystified]

This is pretty much the situation I was in when I started my career and I ended up going back to school to get an EE masters, which made a huge difference in my career trajectory. This video has more details on my experience starting with a BS in Biochemistry & Molecular Biology and why I got an EE masters: kzbin.info/www/bejne/Z5ild6x-padpl6M Yes, an EE masters is going to be fine and you will likely be able to get a good job once you start the program (at least that was my experience) and/or during law school if you decide to go that route. That being said, taking the patent bar ASAP is a great idea. This will make it easier to land your first position and get some experience as you are gearing up for the EE masters or law school. Also, yes, a masters in EE is going to be fine, even if you don't have an EE undergrad (again, that's exactly my situation) and getting a masters from a top school like GT or Cornell will really help you as well. This will be true as a patent agent and as a patent attorney as well. For more on patent attorney careers, check out my full playlist here: kzbin.info/aero/PLp15JXznBjPWV7v0dD50ZdOvPfXMuo_yN

[@thidao3926]

@@PatentsDemystified Wow, really appreciate the quick response! I feel much better now, was stressing a little about my career path. Will be sure to check out that video

[@PatentsDemystified]

You bet. Glad to help!

[@mauricev8075]

I wonder if patent attorneys have the ability to practice remotely domestically and how about abroad as a digital nomad ?

[@PatentsDemystified]

I actually have a full video on that here: kzbin.info/www/bejne/hGLNc2mMjcqcgKc The full playlist of all my patent attorney career videos can be found here: kzbin.info/aero/PLp15JXznBjPWV7v0dD50ZdOvPfXMuo_yN

[@985-y6j]

I see neuroscience is also added to the list in category A. Do you think it is a good option?

[@PatentsDemystified]

If it gets you automatically qualified via category A, then it's great, but I would put it in the same category as other biotech-related degrees. It's not as good as computer-related degrees, but will be fine to get into the more niche biotech practice area.

[@rodrigodeanda350]

Right now I'm about to graduate in as a mechanical engineer, I recently submitted my applications for law school. I have really liked the area of mechatronics and robotics in relation to mechanical engineering, the amount of classes in the electronics field in mechanical engineering are limited in comparison to electrical engineering. If that is the field that I enjoy the most and would like to work in a field related to such, what are the possibilities for a mechanical engineer in the area of computers?

[@PatentsDemystified]

There should be plenty of opportunity as long as you highlight your experience with software and computers in your resume and in interviews. ME majors who have little or no experience with computer software and hardware will probably have a hard time since a purely mechanical patent practice is kinda niche and is something people with most technical backgrounds can learn. However, someone who understands computer software and hardware along with it how it interacts with specialized mechanical systems like in robotics can be a great asset for this kind of work, but can also likely do pure software stuff as well. Honestly, that's mostly what my practice is these days - a lot of robotic systems where patentability is in the configuration of the mechanical system along with hardware and software functionalities. Also some pure software stuff like cloud computing, cryptography websites, apps, etc.

[@TanyaSienko]

Don’t forget that with a technical background you can also get hired at the USPTO as a patent examiner.

[@PatentsDemystified]

Excellent point! Becoming an Examiner at the USPTO is a great career path for folks with a technical background and also can be a good path to becoming a patent attorney or agent as well.

[@jimnottle2497]

What if I have a history degree and a masters in cs after taking courses at a community college? Will I be competitive for patent attorney jobs after law school?

[@PatentsDemystified]

Of course it unfortunately depends on where your degrees are from, but a CS masters is really going to help. To help boost your resume, consider talking the patent bar now and try to get a job or internship doing patent work while in law school. Already having some experience will really help you stand out as a candidate. This video discusses how taking the patent bar now can be helpful: When Should you Take the Patent Bar? kzbin.info/www/bejne/rGKaZZyjeql3nNk

[@carlakemtch8765]

Thank you so much for your video! It gave me so much insight on the career path. I am a junior in high school doing dual enrollment to obtain an associates in engineering, and then a bachelor in mechanical engineering to become a patent attorney (wish me good luck on my journey) In your opinion, would a mechanical engineering bachelor's degree be a good choice to help me enter the patent field? Of course it would allow me to take the patent bar, but just like you said you had struggles in your beginning with your degree choice, and I am trying to eliminate any possibility of not getting job offers once i step out of law school!!

[@PatentsDemystified]

Thanks, Carla. A mechanical engineering bachelor's degree is definitely a good choice to get into patents. One suggestion would be to try to get as broad of an engineering educational background as possible since being a patent attorney typically requires you to deal with a variety of technology subject matters. For example, in addition to pure ME courses, be sure to take some computer classes in CS and EE. In my practice, I do a lot with robots, which includes a wide array of ME, CS and EE disciplines. Best of luck on your journey! Let me know how it goes and be sure to check out some of my other videos on patent attorney careers here: kzbin.info/aero/PLp15JXznBjPWV7v0dD50ZdOvPfXMuo_yN

[@janeta780]

Hello !! I am currently in my first year PhD program and interested in patent law, would a PhD in bioinformatics be better or immunology coming from an undergraduate education in biochemistry. Thanks in advance.

[@PatentsDemystified]

Bioinformatics is probably going to be a more in demand background and make it easier to find a job and will still open the door to other work in biotech and chemistry.

[@Princessbubblegum567]

Is there GPA requirement to take the patent bar? I'm in industrial and Systems engineering program now. My GPA is getting lower as my classes get more difficult :(

[@PatentsDemystified]

Nope, not that I'm aware of. You just need to pass and get a qualifying degree.

[@Princessbubblegum567]

@@PatentsDemystified wow! Thank you for a speedy reply. Is ISE a good technical background for becoming a patent agent? I see ME, EE and CE/CS to be most preferred but I can't change my major now. I'm considering getting masters in AI if ISE is not sufficient but don't want to accrue further debt

[@PatentsDemystified]

ISE could be good if you can spin it the right way. For example, for getting a job, folks want to know that you'll be able to pick up and quickly understand the technology of a given patent application you are assigned, so make sure you are specific about technical skill and experience on your resume and when interviewing. If you have some specific computer-related skills/experience, that's going to be ideal, and try to tailor it for the job you are applying for. You can always go back to school later like I did if ISE isn't getting you the career traction want.

[@df6573]

Hello, I have a question if you have some time. Can someone be a patent attorney in biotech with only a bachelors in biology? I have read the field is competitive. I have experience in research (less than 4 years) and thinking of doing a Master in Biochemistry.

[@PatentsDemystified]

Biology does qualify you to sit for the patent bar under Category A, so you definitely can become a patent attorney with only a bachelors in biology, but you're right that biotech is a more competitive field when it comes to being a patent attorney. There will definitely be jobs available to you with just a BS and some research experience, but getting a masters in Biochemistry will make you a substantially more competitive candidate. One thing to keep in mind is that you might not even need to finish your masters to get a great job. My suggestion would be to take the patent bar now and start shopping around for patent jobs while you are still in your masters program. I was able to get a substantially better job while I was in the middle of my masters program - once I put a pending masters on my resume I immediately noticed a difference in how I was perceived as a candidate. Are you already an attorney or are you planning on going to law school? Either way, taking the patent bar sooner than later can be a great benefit.

[@hawks70james20]

Hello, I currently have an undergrad in ME and 1 year of work experience, would you recommend going for a masters in EE, CS or neither before pursuing a law degree?

[@PatentsDemystified]

I would recommend just going straight to law school instead of getting an EE or CS masters. I would recommend talking the patent bar before law school if possible though. You may be able to get the kind of jobs you want without a masters, so a masters before law school could be an unnecessary cost and time expense. You can always go back for a masters after law school like I did, if necessary.

[@hawks70james20]

@@PatentsDemystified Thanks for the amazing advice, and so quickly too!! I appreciate your time and help and wish you the best in the future! Thanks

[@hawks70james20]

@@PatentsDemystified Would you recommend taking the patent bar before any other step, like the lsat or anything else?

[@PatentsDemystified]

You bet. Glad to help. Keep us updated on how everything goes.

[@emmanuelexhume3775]

I'm going into my final year of a Biomaterials Engineering B.S. with a minor in chemistry. Would this be enough to find jobs? How necessary would attending grad school prior to law school be?

[@PatentsDemystified]

There will certainly be jobs available to someone with this background, but they are going to be way harder to find and way more competitive than folks looking for jobs with an EE or CS degree. You'll be more likely to be competing against folks with a masters or Ph.D whereas advanced degrees in EE or CS are not necessary to get easy traction in the job patent attorney job market. This video has some more one my experience in the market with a B.S. in biochemistry molecular biology, which is probably still valid today: kzbin.info/www/bejne/Z5ild6x-padpl6M

[@ankarata]

Does having studied pharmacy on an academic level satisfy for category A or B?

[@PatentsDemystified]

As discussed in the official requirements linked below, a degree in pharmacology can satisfy Category A and may satisfy Category B if the the specified course work requirements are met. www.uspto.gov/sites/default/files/documents/OED_GRB.pdf

[@dingolingo1336]

If I want to peruse becoming a patient attorney and achieving the highest degree of success possible, how vital is it that I have a PhD in my chosen field?

[@PatentsDemystified]

Not very vital at all in computer fields, but could be helpful for biotech, or other biological sciences. If someone happens to have a PhD, that’s great, but it’s a bit overkill for most patent careers.

[@limyiern9885]

Hi! Thanks for the informative videos. I am planning my way to be a patent attorney currently and is now hesitating on what course to take. As mentioned in the video, will it be considered narrow for a technical background with medical biochemistry/biomed science/biomedical engineering or a pure chemistry degree to start off? Which one is most favorable in your opinion?

[@PatentsDemystified]

I would probably put all of these generally on the same level, but maybe with biomed science being a bit below the others. For the others, I would suggest the program that you would enjoy the most. These are all going to be pretty difficult degrees, so pick the one that will be the most fun for you. Also, if you are ultimately looking to become a patent attorney, try to pick STEM classes that give you a broad understanding of different areas of science and technology instead of being hyper-focused on one area. Being a patent attorney is all about being adaptable to lots of different technology, so having a broader background will be much more useful than a really narrow one. Also, consider taking the patent bar as soon as you qualify - it will really help you get into law school and open up more doors for internships, jobs, etc.

[@nn-ul5dk]

I wonder if doing patents for medical devices require graduate level expertise, as opposed to the computer tech stuff that you can get into (generally) with just an undergrad? I'm interested in pursuing a legal career adjacent to medicine and curious whether I should pursue a PhD or not. Your video was super informative!

[@PatentsDemystified]

Thanks! Graduate level experience is typically not necessary to work on medical devices, but having a graduate degree will certainly make you a more competitive candidate in the job market. A PhD would probably not be worth it in terms of time and cost, but a Masters could have good ROI. Also, having some working experience can really help too, so even an undergrad degree with a few years working in industry would be a great background to have. A good way to think about it is that it helps to know the language of medicine and science when practicing law related to these areas, and school or active work or research are all great ways to get a relevant background. Thanks for the great question!

[@Angelo-vh3zk]

I am finishing my PhD in pharmaceutical sciences and have scientific research experience (I am also getting an MBA) and planning on going to Law school afterwards, do you think that would make a promising career as a patent attorney?

[@PatentsDemystified]

Yes! Especially for a patent career in the biotech/pharma field, having a PhD and research experience along with an MBA is really going to help with landing good positions both at a firm or in house at a company. One thing I would suggest is taking the patent bar as soon as you qualify, which might be now depending on what your undergrad and coursework has been. This will really help get your foot in the door early with higher-level patent and legal jobs.

[@Angelo-vh3zk]

@@PatentsDemystified thank you for your reply! Just to follow up, even though I am not in law school yet, you still recommend taking it? I believe I qualify now but if I can take it, do you recommend any prep courses for the exam? Also, how would taking it before law school help me? Do you recommend getting a job as a patent agent before law school or during? Once again thank you for all your help!

[@PatentsDemystified]

Yea, I would definitely recommend taking the patent bar before law school. Patent agents typically do 95% of of the same work that a patent attorney does (this video has more detail on that kzbin.info/www/bejne/l4KmZKGHotecapI) so you'll be able to immediately start getting substantive experience that will directly translate into being a patent attorney. Also, being a patent agent will help with getting into law school and with getting better jobs, clerkships and internships. Getting a job as a patent agent before and during law school would both be good options - it depends on whether you want or need a job at these times, but honestly, your patent agent job will give you the best experience for being a patent attorney. For being a patent attorney, law school is kinda just jumping through a hoop to become an attorney. Most classes you take in law won't be useful to practicing as a patent attorney. As far as prep courses, PLI is the top one, but expensive. I used PatBar.com, but there are tons of good courses out these - just find one that fits your learning style.

[@Angelo-vh3zk]

@@PatentsDemystified any prep courses you recommend?

[@PatentsDemystified]

As far as prep courses, PLI is the top one, but expensive. I used PatBar.com, but there are tons of good courses out these - just find one that fits your learning style.

[@greyspace2033]

Hello! I am late to the video but had a query…. I have a bachelor’s degree in pharmacy and pursuing my master’s in health economics and outcomes research. What is the scope for me as patent attorney with this educational background?

[@PatentsDemystified]

It depends on the specifics of the degrees. A degree in pharmacology would automatically qualify you to sit for the patent bar under Category A, but relevant course work may also let you qualify. Check out the specifics of how to qualify here: www.uspto.gov/sites/default/files/documents/OED_GRB.pdf This video discusses how to qualify as well: kzbin.info/www/bejne/aHLIpYeefrWjg68

[@greyspace2033]

@@PatentsDemystified Alright, thanks a lot! Really enjoy watching your vids on yt! Keep up the good work!

[@PatentsDemystified]

Thanks!😊

[@maxfeldman3859]

Hi there, did you work full time as a patent attorney while getting your MS in EE? My undergrad is in aerospace eng and my masters is in spacecraft systems eng. I've been interested in a MS in EE for awhile and you've just about sold me. Curious about your thoughts on first going to law school and then getting a EE degree or going EE first? My idea is that I would study for (hopefully pass) the patent bar the summer before law school, attend law school, then while working as a patent attorney I would get my EE degree. My logic here is that I would take away more from the EE degree through the insight gained while working in patent law. This would help when selecting which courses to take and which degree path I should choose as well. Thoughts on this? Am I crazy? Really appreciate your videos by the way. Its hard finding people to talk to about making a pivot let alone optimistic and informative people! I should note when I was getting my ME in systems I was working full time so I understand how hard it is but I also think working while studying helps provide a more closed loop learning process to which you can immediately apply what you learned in class at work.

[@PatentsDemystified]

Hi Max, No, you are definitely not crazy. Taking the patent bar is as soon as possible is a really good idea and will help open up lots of doors during and after law school (and help you get into law school if you haven't already). Also, it's great to get the patent bar out of the way ASAP instead of waiting. I see a lot of new attorneys struggle to get it done after having to finish law school, take the bar and deal with the pressure getting up to speed as a new attorney. Yea, I had been practicing as a patent attorney for several years and was still full time when I got my MS in EE. I did a night program for working professionals. It was a ton of work, but really worth it for me and helped me get where I wanted to go with my career. I think your plan of going to law school first is a good one - don't do the MSEE first. One reason is that you might not even need it to reach your patent attorney career goals. For me it was essential because a BS in Biochemistry Molecular Biology was not going to give me enough street cred to make it as a computer-focused patent attorney. Honestly, you probably won't have as much trouble given that you already have both a BS and MS and the market is a lot better than it was when I was getting out of law school. Regardless, I think you're totally on the right track. Thanks for the positive words about my videos - it's gratifying to know that I'm providing value to some folks out there. Cheers!

[@marziyehbadinloo1037]

Hi, thanks for your informative video. I have a PhD in molecular biology with 10 publications and over 12 years of research experience. During the last 5 years I had two babies and some health issues due to to pregnancy, therefore I stayed home with my kids. It was very hard to go back to the lab with two kids and I decided to change my career path and I started a masters in bioinformatics, after one semester I came across a friend who suggested that I can choose patent agent career instead of doing another masters. What do you think? I’m 42 years old, Do I have any chance? Can I find a job as a technical advisor and pass the patent bar exam later? Or do you recommend to pass the patent bar exam first?

[@PatentsDemystified]

Thanks! It's definitely not too late to pivot to a career in patents, and honestly, some of the best patent attorneys and agents come from an earlier career in industry or academia. This background makes you even more valuable as a candidate. Regarding the patent bar exam vs. technical writer job, I would suggest doing both in parallels. Start preparing to take the patent bar now and mention that in your cover letters/interviews. That will help get your foot in the door and show you are committed. You should start down the paths of taking the patent bar and looking for a job and networking ASAP.

[@sherazt1770]

What about software engineering or software science

[@PatentsDemystified]

Software engineering or software science might not automatically qualify you to take the patent bar, but you could likely qualify under Category B. I think these would both be great degrees to have if you want to become a patent attorney. I would put them up there with a CS degree. With around 2/3 patent applications being software related these days, these degrees will be highly relevant: www.ipwatchdog.com/2021/03/17/seven-years-after-alice-63-2-of-the-u-s-patents-issued-in-2020-were-software-related/id=130978/

[@esomoor3122]

Loved the video thank you

[@PatentsDemystified]

Thanks! 😃

[@RoninTWanderer]

can you become a patent attorney with a software engineering degree?

[@PatentsDemystified]

Possibly. Software engineering is not one of the degrees that automatically qualifies you to sit for the patent bar, but you might still qualify under Category B depending on the specific course work you've had. Check out the USPTO website here for more details on what might allow you to qualify with a software engineering degree: www.uspto.gov/sites/default/files/documents/OED_GRB.pdf

[@RoninTWanderer]

@@PatentsDemystified Thank you again!

[@KILCITY]

Hello! Amazing video very informative and answered many of my questions thank you so much!! I have some follow up questions but first more about me. I am 22 years old and within one year of graduating with a BS in astrophysics and a minor in mathematics. What is my next move to become a patent attorney do I (a) continue with graduate school to acquire a masters degree (I would do physics or applied physics) and then go to law school and take the patent bar exam or do I (b) take the patent bar exam with only the BS to become a patent agent and work up to a patent attorney. Which option will provide me the best experience and best opportunities down the road? Again thank you so much for your time!

[@PatentsDemystified]

Hi Brad, thanks for watching and for the great questions. Regardless of which path you choose, I would suggest taking the patent bar as soon as you qualify and have the time. This will really help open doors to patent jobs or internships while you are in grad or law school or could allow you to start representing clients yourself and getting experience while still in school (which is what I did). Between options (a) and (b), I would lean toward just going to law school without doing a masters. Having a masters naturally does help your prospects in the job market, but a masters in physics or applied physics might have too small a benefit to justify the additional time and cost. Taking the patent bar and going to law school will let you start getting into practice much sooner and to see what sort of patent work you enjoy and what sort of practice you really want to have. A masters in physics or applied physics might ultimately be irrelevant to getting to where you want to be. Also, you can always go back to school and get a masters later if that becomes necessary to your career goals, and then you can choose a maters program that you know is directly relevant to your career goals and will provide high ROI. (That's also what I ended up doing).

[@jona4961]

Hi! I’m 23 years old and I have a bachelors in EE and currently doing a masters in EE. I recently got interested in patent law, however I am wondering if the masters is actually worth it assuming I go to law school directly after, or take some time to work in the EE industry first then go to law school. I’d just like to know your thoughts :)

[@PatentsDemystified]

Hi Jon, you might as well finish your EE masters since you are already doing it. It will definitely make a difference with your job prospects long term and will give you good ROI. I would suggest taking the patent bar now though because that will open up a lot of doors for you. Taking time to work in industry will look good on your resume, but is not essential and will have have lower ROI than the masters, but I can understand if you would want some time before law school.

[@KavyaSravanthi]

Hello..,I have a question, im from India and did my masters in Biotechnology by 2009. Am I eligible to attempt Patent bar exam

[@PatentsDemystified]

It depend on where your degree is from and your citizenship and residency. Check out the specific requirements here: www.uspto.gov/sites/default/files/documents/OED_GRB.pdf

[@laurensmith3633]

Hi! This video was very helpful as always! I'm currently a junior doing my bachelors (Biomolecular Science) and am starting to think about preparing my application for law schools. People talk a lot about law school not being worth it if you don't go to a top 20 school, but my advisor said this depends completely on what you want to go into. Is that true for patent law as well? If I don't get into a top law school should I instead think about being a patent agent? Also, what are the areas that have the most patent jobs? I'm from Michigan and definitely don't want to stay here forever lol!

[@PatentsDemystified]

Thanks! I would definitely disagree that law school is not worth it if you don't go to a top 20 school. I know plenty of people who have awesome law careers who went to average schools, me included. This is especially true of patents given how much of a niche practice it is and how little law school actually prepares you to practice patent law. The only downside of not going to a top-tier law school in my opinion is that it can be harder to find jobs outside of the geographic region of the law school, so I would suggest going to law school in a location where you would likely want to practice (at least starting out). Patent jobs tend to be most concentrated around tech hubs like the SF Bay Area, Seattle, Boston and New York. Being a patent agent is a fine job, but you should definitely consider going to law school if you can get into a decent law school.

[@newtec-kd6vy]

I was hoping you’d talk about salary 😅

[@PatentsDemystified]

Yea, I’ve been meaning to do a full video on patent attorney salary. It’s kinda hard cause there are so many variables and a big range. I know patent attorneys who make over a million a year and others who make under $100k because of location and type of client.

[@tingshanchen5852]

I am thinking to change my career from academia to patent law.I have a PhD in chemistry and postdoc experience in biomedical engineering. My undergraduate degree is biotechnology. Would you please let me know if my background is broad enough for building a good career in practicing patent law. Thanks.

[@PatentsDemystified]

Yes! You have a great background for a career in patent law in the biotech/chemistry space. Having hands-on lab experience along with a PhD and postdoc experience will make you a great candidate. Biotech patent jobs can be a bit more competitive than other technology fields, but your background will likely make you a top candidate.

[@tingshanchen5852]

@@PatentsDemystified Thank you very much for your replay. That is very helpful!

[@PatentsDemystified]

You bet. Glad to help.

[@cheatercaps7550]

can you become a patent attorney with an engineering physics degree ?

[@PatentsDemystified]

Yes, you should be able to automatically qualify to sit for the patent bar under Category A, which includes "Engineering Physics" as one of the re-approved degrees: www.uspto.gov/sites/default/files/documents/OED_GRB.pdf For more on this, also check out this video: kzbin.info/www/bejne/aHLIpYeefrWjg68 (How to qualify for the patent bar).