Intellectual Property for Entrepreneurs (Coursera)

Regardless of size and industry, a business’s intellectual property is often more valuable than its physical assets. Companies invest tremendous resources in developing innovative new products and services. Intellectual property law discourages competitors from immediately profiting from another’s invention, and provides incentives for continued innovation.

"Intellectual Property for Entrepreneurs" is one of three courses in the "Legal Aspects of Entrepreneurship Specialization" by Coursera and the University of Maryland. This specialization explores the critical legal and business issues entrepreneurs face as they build and launch a new venture. Learners examine real-world scenarios and address legal and business issues from ideation to all of the important junctures along the path to success. Significant attention is placed on new venture formation, intellectual property management, and contracts and financing arrangements.

What You Will Learn

- Understand intellectual property and how it impacts the success of entrepreneurs and companies.

- Learn what is patentable and how to secure a patent.

- Know how copyrights and trademarks are created and managed.

- Appreciate the role that trade secrets play in companies.

Course 2 of 3 in the Legal Aspects of Entrepreneurship Specialization

Syllabus

WEEK 1

Introduction to Intellectual Property for Entrepreneurs

Get acquainted with the learning experience and course format, meet the faculty, and connect with classmates from across the globe.

WEEK 2

Patents

WEEK 3

Copyright, Trademark, and Trade Secrets

WEEK 4

Next Steps