Intellectual Property Policy

As a general rule, the University does not claim ownership of intellectual property (IP) created by a student. There are, however, a few notable exceptions:

Under the University's IP policy (Policy #136), the University owns IP created by a student: (a) if an employee of the University, or (b) using significant University resources, or (c) under a sponsored program. If University-owned IP is commercialized, under policy, the student-creator may be eligible to receive up to 50% of the net revenue received by the University.

       View the Policy

Our office is here to assist with disclosure obligations under University policy and sponsor agreements.

Capstone projects

Capstone projects, studio projects, and student design projects represent a partnership between the University and a government or industry sponsor.

These projects are usually part of senior-level undergraduate courses or graduate courses that provide students the opportunity to apply what they have been learning in the classroom to real-world problems. These types of projects are mutually beneficial to all parties involved. The students and faculty see real issues facing organizations and companies, and the sponsor benefits from bright minds looking at an idea, issue, or problem from a fresh perspective. It also provides an opportunity for the sponsor to recruit UVU's best talent.

These projects may be funded or unfunded. Standard policy at UVU is that intellectual property created in a course belongs to the student creating the intellectual property. A sponsor may request that intellectual property created under the project be assigned to the sponsor, but this must be made through a written IP assignment agreement prior to initiation of the project. It is the responsibility of the sponsor to obtain this assignment. For a student who does not wish to assign such rights, faculty will ensure there are one or more comparable projects or courses available for selection that do not require such assignment and will satisfy graduation requirements.

Non-Disclosure Agreement for Capstone Project (Student)