A Flexible Solution

 Anh Khoa Pham is an IP law trainee at Pham & Associates in Vietnam, and a full-time student in the online Master of Intellectual Property (MIP) program at the University of New Hampshire Franklin Pierce School of Law (UNH Franklin Pierce). Pham earned a B.S in biochemistry and molecular biology and an M.S. in horticulture and agronomy, with a specialization in biotechnology, from the University of California, Davis. He’s preparing for a future role at the firm, focusing on patent prosecution and assisting international clients in securing intellectual property protection in Vietnam.

With Anh Khoa’s help, Pham & Associates firm recently established a cooperation with UNH Franklin Piece aimed at supporting the IP learning and training needs of employees at Pham & Associates. Through this agreement, UNH Franklin Pierce will award qualified Pham & Associates personnel with tuition scholarships for select intellectual property educational programs, including the LLM, Master’s, Graduate Certificate, and JD programs. 

Why did you choose to pursue an online degree with UNH Franklin Pierce?

Initially, I intended to enroll in the in-person MIP program. However, due to an injury that required surgery during the summer of 2024, I needed a more flexible learning option to accommodate my recovery process in Vietnam. After researching the online program, I discovered that it offers many of the courses essential for my career in intellectual property law, and in a format that suits my circumstances. The online degree allows me to continue my

education without interruption, ensuring that I can maintain my professional development while managing my health and responsibilities.

Can you describe your experience so far with the program and with UNHFP in general? 

My educational experience at UNH Franklin Pierce has been challenging and highly interactive. The online learning platform is well-designed, with

engaging lecture videos followed by discussions with classmates and quizzes that encourage deeper engagement with the study material. Assignments in my courses require me to demonstrate a strong understanding of IP law principles and often mirror real-life scenarios, such as drafting a patent application or preparing a research report. This practical approach has been particularly valuable in bridging theory with real-world application, which I greatly appreciate.

What do you think of the IP curriculum?

The curriculum has provided me with a solid foundation in patent law and the patent prosecution process, while also introducing me to other critical aspects of IP law, such as trademark law and international IP regulations. This semester, I’m enrolled in courses that emphasize international IP law and legal research, both of which are essential in understanding the global IP landscape alongside U.S. IP law. What I find most valuable about the program is that it not only provides a macro-level understanding of IP law, but also prepares me with the skills necessary to serve clients effectively and perform the role of an IP professional. 

 How has the UNH Franklin Pierce community supported you so far?

Even though I’m studying remotely, the faculty at UNH Franklin Pierce have created ample opportunities for interaction and mentorship. Professors hold weekly office hours and meetings, making it easy to seek guidance. For example, in my Patent Practice & Procedure course, Professor Jessica Harrison encouraged me to schedule a one-on-one Zoom meeting,where we discussed course material and her experience as a former United States Patent and Trademark Office patent examiner and now as a practicing patent attorney. This conversation gave me tremendous insight into the patent prosecution process and how to best assist clients in securing IP protection.

 How did the idea of a partnership between  Pham & Associates and UNH Franklin Pierce come about?

The idea for the Pham & Associates Scholarship stems from our firm's longstanding commitment to providing the highest quality legal services in the field of intellectual property. As Vietnam continues to integrate into the global IP landscape, we recognize the importance of equipping our professionals with specialized expertise to better serve our clients. Partnering with UNH Franklin Pierce School of Law enables us to create a potential pathway for our professionals to advance their knowledge through a world-class education in intellectual property law, ensuring they remain at the forefront of legal developments and international best practices.

In what ways do you hope the scholarship will help future students to attend UNHFP and also get ahead in their careers?

We hope this scholarship program will make a world-class education in intellectual property law more accessible to our dedicated professionals at Pham & Associates, equipping them with specialized knowledge and practical skills essential for excelling in their careers and delivering high-quality IP services to our clients and foreign associates.

Why do you think the online master’s in IP is a good fit for lawyers and other professionals in Vietnam?

The online Master’s in Intellectual Property Law provides lawyers and law-adjacent professionals in Vietnam with the flexibility to advance their expertise by accessing a world-class education without interrupting their careers or relocating. As Vietnam continues to integrate into global markets and attract increased foreign investment, specialized knowledge in IP law is becoming indispensable. This program equips professionals with the skills needed to navigate international regulations and effectively serve both domestic and international clients in an evolving technological landscape.

To learn more about the Master’s in Intellectual Property and the other IP educational programs at UNH Franklin Pierce, visit: https://law.unh.edu/ip-powerhouse