course description

     A study of federal and international laws protecting the innovative endeavors of authors.  Topics include the history of copyright law, fair use of copyrighted materials, what can be copyrighted, and the interaction of copyright law with other concepts of unfair competition and intellectual property.

Prerequisite

     One year of law school in the full-time or part-time program.

Course Materials
 
     1. Julie E. Cohen et al., Copyright in a Global Information Economy (5th ed. 2020)
 
     2. U.S. Copyright Act, 17 U.S.C. (available for download here)
 
     The Case and Statutory Supplement is not required.  You are strongly encouraged to pay attention to current copyright law developments, as we will discuss them in class.

Learning Outcomes

     1. Students will acquire an understanding of the basic principles and policies of copyright law, including what materials are protected, the substantive requirements for protection, the procedures for obtaining protection, rights conferred, limitations and exceptions, and remedies for infringement.

     2. Students will develop greater awareness and appreciation of the role of copyright in society and within the larger context of intellectual property law and policy—both domestic and international.

     3. Students will have the ability to analyze basic copyright agreements and discuss copyright issues that arise in daily activities, including the use of digital technology.