Abstract:

We know that the inventor of a machine, the author of a book, or the writer of music somehow “own” their work, and from this ownership, certain consequences flow. Each time a “protected” item is sold, a part of what is paid goes back to the owner as recompense for the time, money, effort and thought they put into the creation of the work. That’s why, Intellectual Property is an important aspect of the education in universities. Now, more than ever, it is absolutely necessary for every student in the Bachelor’s Degree to have an adequate preparation in Intellectual Property Protection. This way, students would be aware of how to use protected content not only in university information environment, but also in the everyday life. The aim of this paper is making a research at all universities and colleges in Bulgaria and whether they offer education in Intellectual Property. To achieve that goal are set out the following major research tasks, outlining the methodology of the study. First of all, a summary with all the universities and colleges is done. Then are shown these one that offer education in Intellectual Property; with how many hours per semester/year they are doing it; whether the disciplines related to Intellectual Property are obligatory or mandatory. The methodology for achieving the objective of the study and solving the set research tasks include the following specific methods: content analysis, comparative analysis and synthesis of the obtained information. The main question is do Bulgarian universities offer education in Intellectual Property that is able to make students aware of the fully acting legal framework that protects Intellectual Property. Conclusions are made, based on the survey and a finale for the university information environment in Bulgaria, based on the aspect of Intellectual Property education, is made.

Keywords:

Education, intellectual property, university, Bulgaria.