The Graduate Diploma in Intellectual Property Law (GDipIPLaw) is part of the Melbourne Law Masters program, which offers one of the largest and most respected IP law specialisations in the world.

The extensive range of practically-focused and theoretically-rigorous subjects covers the spectrum of IP protection regimes and many subjects are accredited by the Trans-Tasman IP Attorneys Board (TTIPAB).

It’s ideal if you’re seeking accreditation as a patent and/or trade marks attorney in Australia and New Zealand, or seeking to develop and expand your expertise in intellectual property law generally.

The Graduate Diploma in Intellectual Property Law is available for both law and non-law graduates and its flexible structure makes it ideal for working professionals looking to immerse themselves in the study of intellectual property law.

Students must complete 50 credit points from the prescribed list of subjects.

Students who do not have a law degree from a common law jurisdiction or any prior legal studies or experience are also expected to complete the two-day preliminary subject Australian Legal Process and Legal Institutions.

Overview of Intellectual Property

Overview of Intellectual Property is a two-day seminar that provides a general survey of the various regimes comprising intellectual property (IP). It is accredited by the Trans-Tasman IP Attorneys Board (TTIPAB) as satisfying part of its accreditation requirements for Topic Group A.

Professional accreditation

Completing the appropriate subjects in the Master of Intellectual Property Law may qualify you to register as a trade marks attorney and a patent attorney under the Trans-Tasman regime. In order to qualify you should first seek advice from the Trans-Tasman IP Attorneys Board and consult with Melbourne Law School on subject selection.

TTIPAB Accreditation

• TTIPAB Accreditations for Groups A, B, C, D, E, F, H and I are valid through to 7 April 2025.
• TTIPAB Accreditation for Group G is valid through to 16 November 2028.

As a student in the Graduate Diploma in Intellectual Property Law, you’ll develop an advanced understanding of the complex body of knowledge in the field of Australian and New Zealand intellectual property law and its place in the global context.

You’ll also develop skills in critical analysis and the ability to interpret and transmit your ideas to specialist and non-specialist audiences, including clients.

Completing the appropriate subjects in the Graduate Diploma in Intellectual Property Law may qualify you to register as a trade marks attorney and a patent attorney under the Trans-Tasman regime. In order to qualify you should first seek advice from the Trans-Tasman IP Attorneys Board and consult with Melbourne Law School on subject selection.

Many students who complete four subjects towards the Graduate Diploma in Intellectual Property Law decide to take four more subjects to complete a Master of Intellectual Property Law.

Applicants must have completed: A degree in law (LLB, JD or equivalent) leading to admission to legal practice, with a University of Melbourne equivalent score of at least 70, or equivalent

IELTS (academic English Only): 6.5 (no band less than 6.0)
TOEFL Internet-based test: 79 + ; Writing 21; Speaking 18; Reading 13; Listening 13;
Pearson Test of English Academic: 58 + no communicative skill below 50
Cambridge English: Advanced/ Certificate of Advanced English (CAE): 176 + no skill below 169.