Module 2: Publishing Agreements - Exclusive License is a Transfer of Copyright

Most journals require transfer of copyright before publication. This means you no longer own your copyright. An exclusive license is a transfer of copyright.

EXCLUSIVE LICENCE TO PUBLISH
In consideration for publication in the above Journal, you hereby grant to Royal College of General Practitioners (‘Proprietor’) the exclusive right and licence to produce, publish and make available and to further sub-license your article (‘Article’) and the accompanying abstract (all materials collectively referenced as the ‘Contribution’) prepared by you for the full legal term of copyright and any renewals thereof throughout the world in all languages and in all formats, and through any medium of communication now known or later conceived or developed.

Sometimes the language of the agreement is confusing or misleading. Later in this same agreement:

Copyright.
While copyright remains yours as the author, you hereby authorise the Proprietor to act on your behalf to defend your copyright should it be infringed and to retain half of any damages awarded, after deducting costs.

Note that copyright remains yours in name only. RCGP and SAGE retain the rights to dictate the terms by which you upload your article to our university Digital Collections and to your personal website.