LLM Intellectual Property and Technology

The LLM Intellectual Property and Technology at the University of Exeter provides students with practical legal experience by connecting advanced intellectual property studies with real-world challenges in technology and innovation. Students develop the ability to analyse legal issues related to digital content, artificial intelligence, biotechnology, patents, trademarks, and emerging technologies through research-led teaching, discussions, and independent projects. By engaging with Exeter Law School’s research environment, specialist facilities, and professional activities, students gain the confidence and skills needed to apply intellectual property law in modern commercial and technological settings.

Students gain practical experience through a range of learning opportunities, resources, and professional activities:

• Participate in lectures, seminars, discussions, and debates led by academics specialising in intellectual property law, digital technologies, copyright, patents, and technology regulation, helping students explore current legal challenges.

• Complete the Legal Research and Writing Skills module and Dissertation, developing advanced research abilities, legal writing skills, critical analysis, and independent investigation techniques.

• Engage with Exeter Law School’s research centres and postgraduate research community, providing opportunities to interact with academics, explore emerging legal topics, and receive feedback on research ideas.

• Apply legal knowledge to real-world technology issues through specialist modules such as Digital Copyright Law, Regulating AI: Law, Policy and Ethics, Blockchain, Policy, Property, Trademarks and Patents, Intellectual Property and Biotechnology, and Law, Digital Markets and Competition.

• Develop professional skills through opportunities such as pro bono projects, internships, mooting activities, and networking events, allowing students to gain practical insight into legal practice.

• Improve advocacy and communication skills through Exeter Law School’s Moot Court, where students can practise legal arguments and develop confidence in presenting legal cases.

• Access the Lasok Law Library, which provides extensive legal resources, specialist books, journals, online databases, and dedicated study spaces to support postgraduate research and independent learning.

• Attend research seminars, academic events, and legal discussions that help students stay updated with developments in intellectual property, technology law, and digital regulation.

• Receive academic guidance from Exeter Law School staff and personal tutors who support students throughout their postgraduate studies and research projects.

Graduates of the LLM Intellectual Property and Technology at the University of Exeter develop specialist knowledge in intellectual property law, digital innovation, and emerging technologies. The programme prepares students for careers in law firms, technology companies, corporate organisations, regulatory bodies, and international institutions by developing strong legal research, analytical, communication, and problem-solving skills. Typical career paths include Intellectual Property Lawyer, Technology Law Specialist, Legal Consultant, and Data Protection Advisor.

The programme supports students’ career development through a range of opportunities:

• The University of Exeter Career Zone provides career guidance, employability resources, skills workshops, events, and support to help students prepare for graduate employment and develop their professional profiles.

• The Exeter Law School careers support team helps students build connections with the legal profession through career workshops, Law Fair events, networking opportunities, and guidance from employability specialists.

• Students develop valuable skills including advanced legal research, legal writing, independent investigation, critical analysis, communication, project management, and specialist knowledge of intellectual property and technology law.

• Graduates can explore career opportunities within law firms, corporate legal departments, technology companies, creative industries, government organisations, regulatory bodies, international organisations, and non-governmental organisations.

• The programme’s focus on digital copyright, trademarks and patents, artificial intelligence, blockchain, biotechnology, and technology regulation provides long-term career value as businesses increasingly depend on innovation and digital transformation.

• Students benefit from Exeter Law School’s professional network, academic community, research seminars, and opportunities to engage with current developments in intellectual property and technology law.

• The programme supports a variety of graduate outcomes, with students progressing into legal practice, corporate roles, technology-focused positions, regulatory careers, or further academic research.

• Specific employment rates and salary figures for graduates of the LLM Intellectual Property and Technology are not published by the University of Exeter; however, the programme develops specialist expertise and transferable skills valued by employers across legal, commercial, and technology sectors.

• The knowledge gained in intellectual property and technology law prepares graduates for roles in growing areas such as digital businesses, innovation management, technology regulation, creative industries, and legal services.

Further Academic Progression:
After completing the LLM Intellectual Property and Technology, students can continue their studies through a PhD in Law or related research areas such as Intellectual Property Law, Technology Law, Digital Regulation, Artificial Intelligence Governance, Copyright Law, or Innovation Policy. The independent research experience gained through the dissertation provides a strong foundation for doctoral study, academic careers, and specialist legal research roles.