Takeaway: The USPTO is considering expanding admission criteria for those looking to practice in patent cases.

The USPTO said in a recent notice that it may review and change its scientific and technical requirements for practitioners in matters heard by the office. Additionally, the USPTO is seeking public opinion on other institutional changes such as modifying the accreditation requirement for computer science degrees, creating a separate design patent practitioner bar, adjusting requirements to practice before the Patent Trial and Appeal Board, and reviewing applicant degrees in a faster time frame.

In another recent notice, the office stated it is, in part, looking to expand admission criteria so more people, “including those from traditionally under-represented and under-resourced communities, can participate in office practice.”