The Master of Intellectual Property and Development (MIPD) program trains policymakers and practitioners with in-depth knowledge of systems, laws, and policies related to intellectual property, patents, and innovation. It also equips students with analytical capabilities to assess the impact of intellectual property on economic growth and sustainable development. Targeted at professionals in both the public and private sectors, the program enhances understanding of global IP cooperation and related policy issues. It consists of 9 required courses, and the specialization is in Intellectual Property and Innovation Policy (IP). This program is jointly operated in collaboration with the World Intellectual Property Organization (WIPO), Korean Intellectual Property Office (KIPO), and the Ministry of Culture, Sports and Tourism (MCST).
All programs require students to complete at least 39 credits, including a 3-credit research project. KDI School operates on a trimester system, allowing full-time students to graduate in approximately 1.5 years and part-time students in about 2 years. Each program is designed, operated, and evaluated based on the five core competencies set by Network of Schools of Public Policy, Affairs, and Administration (NASPAA), as well as program-specific Student Learning Outcomes (SLOs). Curricula are regularly updated by reflecting the feedback from current students, alumni, and partner institutions to maintain a demand-oriented structure. Students interested in pursuing doctoral study may be allowed to take some Ph.D.-level courses under the guidance of their advisor.

Program Specific Concentrations

Intellectual Property and Innovation Policy

Innovation is a key driver of development in today’s era of technological change and globalization. This area of focus within the MIPD program explores how intellectual property (IP) systems—including patents, copyrights, trademarks, and designs—can support creativity, technological advancement, and sustainable growth.

Students examine how well-designed IP frameworks contribute to progress in fields such as electronics, biotechnology, renewable energy, and sustainable supplies of clean water. The program emphasizes the importance of IP policy in shaping a country’s economic, social, and environmental development.

Graduation Date

※ If you take any courses during the fall semester, you will graduate on January 31st (not in December)

Ceremony

Completion Ceremony

• Requirements: Enrolled students in a Masters degree, meet minimum credits requirements inclusive of the courses being taken currently.
• Date: August, December (Refer to the academic calendar of each year)
• Certificate of Coursework Completion will be awarded at the Completion Ceremony.

  * Certificate of Coursework Completion is different from Certificate of Completion (Certificate of Completion is issued to students who have completed the minimum required semesters but have not yet graduated)

• Students will be invited to the completion ceremony only once

Commencement

• Requirements: Enrolled and Completed students in Ph.D. and Masters degree having met all graduation requirements
• Date: December (Refer to the academic calendar of each year)
• Diploma will be awarded only once at the Commencement