Spencer Lanoue
When it comes to crafting a standout resume, knowing how to list your degree effectively is a must. Whether you're a recent graduate or a seasoned professional, how you present your educational background can make a significant difference. Let's dive into the details of how to write your degree on a resume, with tips and examples to guide you along the way.
Why Your Degree Matters on a Resume
Your degree is more than just a piece of paper. It's a testament to your dedication and expertise in a specific area. Employers often look at educational qualifications to gauge your suitability for a role. This section of your resume can be particularly important if you're applying for positions that require specific credentials or if you're early in your career and your work experience is limited.
That said, it's not just about listing your degree. It's about showcasing it in a way that aligns with the job you're applying for. Think of it as a way to tell a story about your academic journey and how it has prepared you for the next step in your career.
Choosing the Right Format
First things first. Select a resume format that best highlights your strengths. The three most common formats are reverse chronological, functional, and combination.
- Reverse Chronological: This is the most common format and is ideal if you have a solid work history. Your education section will typically come after your work experience.
- Functional: If you're changing careers or have gaps in your work history, this format highlights skills over experience. Your education may take a more prominent position.
- Combination: This format blends the other two, often beginning with a skills summary followed by a chronological list of work experiences and education.
Choose the format that best suits your career narrative, and make sure your degree is easy to find for the hiring manager.
Deciding What to Include
When listing your degree, include the following details:
- Degree Type: Specify whether it's a Bachelor’s, Master’s, or Doctorate.
- Major: Clearly state your field of study.
- Institution Name: Include the full name of the college or university.
- Graduation Date: If you graduated within the last 15 years, include the month and year.
- Honors: Mention any honors or distinctions, such as cum laude or Dean's List.
Here's a simple example:
Bachelor of Arts in Psychology
University of California, Berkeley, May 2020
Graduated with Honors
It's pretty straightforward, right? But let's look at some variations you might encounter.
Handling Incomplete Degrees
What if you didn’t finish your degree? You can still include it, especially if you've completed a significant portion. Be honest and clear about your status.
Bachelor of Science in Computer Science (In Progress)
Expected Completion: May 2024
University of Michigan
Or if you didn’t complete it:
Completed 60 credits towards a Bachelor of Science in Biology
University of Florida, 2018-2020
Transparency is key. Employers appreciate honesty and the effort you've made toward your education.
Emphasizing Relevant Coursework
If your degree isn't directly related to the role you're applying for, you might want to include relevant coursework or projects. This can show how your education aligns with the position.
Bachelor of Arts in English Literature
University of Washington, June 2019
Relevant Coursework: Technical Writing, Editing, Professional Communication
This approach can be particularly useful for recent graduates or those shifting career paths, as it highlights the skills and knowledge you've gained in your studies.
Showcasing Online Degrees
Online degrees are becoming more common and widely accepted. If you earned your degree online, there's no need to specify that on your resume unless it's relevant to the position. Simply list it like any other degree:
Master of Business Administration
Southern New Hampshire University, December 2021
It’s all about the credibility of the institution and the relevance of the degree to the job you're applying for.
Highlighting Multiple Degrees
If you've earned multiple degrees, list them in reverse chronological order, starting with the most recent. Each entry should follow the same format:
Master of Science in Environmental Science
Stanford University, September 2022
Bachelor of Science in Biology
University of Oregon, June 2020
This format ensures your most advanced or relevant degree is at the top, catching the employer's eye immediately.
Integrating Certifications and Licenses
Sometimes, additional certifications or licenses can complement your degree and enhance your resume. If they're directly related to the job you're pursuing, list them in a separate section, but close to your education:
Certifications:
- Project Management Professional (PMP), 2023
- Certified Financial Planner (CFP), 2022
These credentials can demonstrate specialized knowledge beyond your degree, making you a more attractive candidate.
Making Use of Spell
Need help formatting your resume or generating a draft? Spell can come to the rescue. With our intuitive AI document editor, you can create a professional-looking resume in no time. Whether you're starting from scratch or refining an existing document, Spell helps you highlight your educational background and more. It’s like having a personal writing assistant right at your fingertips.
Proofreading and Final Touches
Before sending off your resume, give it a thorough review. Check for consistency in formatting, spelling, and grammar. A well-polished resume can set you apart from other candidates.
Consider asking a friend or mentor to review your resume. Fresh eyes can catch errors you might have missed and offer valuable feedback.
And if you want to polish it even further, Spell’s editing features can help you spot any lingering mistakes and refine your resume to perfection.
Final Thoughts
Writing your degree on a resume might seem straightforward. The details matter. A well-structured education section can enhance your resume and make you stand out to potential employers. If you're looking to streamline the process, Spell can help you create a polished, professional document quickly and easily. Happy job hunting!
