You'll usually need a degree in a scientific, engineering, mathematical or technical subject. A postgraduate qualification in science or engineering may give you an extra advantage.
Once you finish your course, you can apply to work as a trainee in a patent office and study for professional exams while you work. It usually takes a minimum of 2 years to qualify.
You may be able to take a postgraduate award in law or intellectual property law, which can count towards qualification as a patent attorney. Many patent attorney trainees are sent on one of these courses by their employers.
If you do a course that covers intellectual property or patent law, it may exempt you from some of the professional training.
Entry requirements
You'll usually need:
- 2 to 3 A levels, or equivalent, for a degree
- a degree in a relevant subject for postgraduate study