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Licenses and Certifications on a Resume: How & When to List

As a job seeker, you want to present yourself in the best light possible to potential employers. One way to do this is to list your licenses and certifications on your resume. Not only do these credentials showcase your expertise in a specific area, but they also demonstrate your commitment to ongoing learning and professional development.

Employers value licenses and certifications because they provide evidence that you have the skills and knowledge to perform the job at hand. By obtaining a license or certification, you have demonstrated that you have met specific requirements set forth by a governing body in your industry. This can give employers peace of mind that you have the necessary qualifications and expertise to perform the job successfully.

Listing your licenses and certifications on your resume can also help set you apart from other candidates. In today’s competitive job market, it can be challenging to stand out from the crowd. However, by showcasing your credentials, you show that you have gone above and beyond to acquire the necessary skills and knowledge to excel in your field. This can make you a more attractive candidate to employers and increase your chances of landing an interview.

Including your licenses and certifications on your resume is a smart move for any job seeker. It shows that you are committed to your profession, have the necessary qualifications for the job, and are willing to invest time and resources in your ongoing professional development. In the following sections, we will explore how and when to list your licenses and certifications on your resume to make the greatest impact.

Understanding Licenses

Having a license is a formal agreement that allows individuals to perform particular activities under specific terms and conditions stipulated by the government or relevant bodies. It is important to obtain a license as it permits individuals to work in a certain field or profession and ensures that they have the necessary skills, knowledge, and expertise required to carry out their duties.

Different professions require different types of licenses. For example, healthcare professionals such as doctors, nurses, and pharmacists require licenses to practice medicine or pharmacy. Teachers require licenses to teach in schools, and pilots require licenses to fly planes. Other professions that require licenses include electricians, plumbers, architects, and lawyers to name a few.

Obtaining a license typically involves undergoing some form of training or education that demonstrates your competency in your respective field. Once the training is complete, you may take a test to show that you have the required knowledge and skills needed to perform your duties. Once you pass the test, you can apply for your license.

Renewing your license is also an important aspect of maintaining your ability to practice. Depending on the profession, licenses may need to be renewed every few years or so to ensure individuals are up-to-date with the latest laws, regulations, and techniques that apply to their particular line of work. Renewal requirements may include continuing education classes, payment of fees, and completion of specific tasks or projects.

To obtain or renew a license, individuals should reach out to the relevant governmental or professional body that issues the licenses. They can provide information on any necessary training or education, testing, and renewal requirements for individuals in their profession. It is important to check with these agencies to ensure compliance with all laws and regulations governing the profession.

Licenses play a crucial role in ensuring that professionals have the necessary knowledge and expertise to carry out their duties in a safe and effective manner while also maintaining the public’s safety and well-being. Understanding the various types of licenses that may be relevant to different professions can help individuals in their career paths by providing them with the appropriate credentials needed to succeed in their chosen field.

Understanding Certifications

Certification vs license.

A certification is a professional credential obtained by demonstrating an individual’s knowledge, skills, and abilities in a particular field. It is issued by a third-party organization, usually a professional association or a certifying body, to individuals who meet certain eligibility requirements and pass an exam or complete a training program.

In contrast, a license is a legal requirement for practicing a specific profession in a specific state or jurisdiction. It is issued by a governmental agency and typically involves passing an exam, meeting education or experience requirements, and paying a fee.

While licenses are mandatory for some professions, such as doctors and lawyers, certifications are usually voluntary and provide a way for individuals to demonstrate their proficiency and expertise in a field.

Types of Certifications

There are various types of certifications, each relevant to different professions. Some popular certifications include:

• Project Management Professional (PMP)
• Certified Public Accountant (CPA)
• Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA)
• Certified Information Systems Security Professional (CISSP)
• Certified Professional in Human Resources (PHR)

Before pursuing a certification, it is important to research which certifications are recognized and valued in your field and region.

Obtaining and Renewing Certifications

The process of obtaining a certification varies depending on the certifying body and the certification itself. Generally, it involves meeting eligibility requirements, paying a fee, and passing an exam or completing a training program.

To renew a certification, individuals must usually meet certain continuing education requirements, such as earning a certain number of professional development units (PDUs) or attending a certain number of conferences or workshops.

It is important to keep track of certification renewal deadlines and to plan ahead to ensure that you have enough time to meet the requirements before your certification expires.

Certifications can be a valuable asset to your professional development and resume. By understanding the different types of certifications and the process of obtaining and renewing them, you can make informed decisions about which certifications to pursue and how to maintain them.

Rules for Listing Licenses and Certifications on Your Resume

When it comes to listing licenses and certifications on your resume, there are a few basic principles that you should keep in mind. These principles will help you present your qualifications in the best possible way and make it easier for prospective employers to understand your skills and abilities.

Basic Principles for Including Licenses and Certifications on Your Resume

The first principle you should follow when including licenses and certifications on your resume is to make sure that they are relevant to the job you are applying for. If you have a certification or license that is not related to the position you are seeking, it may not be worth including on your resume.

Another important principle to follow when including licenses and certifications on your resume is to make sure that they are current. If your certification or license has expired or is no longer valid, it is not worth including on your resume.

Finally, when including licenses and certifications on your resume, it is important to be honest and accurate. Do not claim to have qualifications that you do not actually possess. If you are caught lying about your certifications or licenses, it can have serious consequences for your job search and your professional reputation.

Guidelines for Deciding What Licenses and Certifications to Include

When deciding what licenses and certifications to include on your resume, there are a few guidelines you can follow:

• Include licenses and certifications that are relevant to the job you are applying for.
• Include certifications or licenses that are required for the position.
• Include licenses or certifications that demonstrate your expertise in a particular area.

It is also important to keep in mind that including too many licenses and certifications on your resume can be overwhelming and may actually detract from your overall qualifications. Only include those that are most relevant to the job you are applying for.

How to Format and Display Licenses and Certifications on Your Resume

When it comes to formatting and displaying licenses and certifications on your resume, there are a few options to choose from. One common way to do this is to list them under a separate heading, such as “Certifications” or “Licenses,” and then list them in chronological order.

Another option is to list your licenses and certifications in the education section of your resume, particularly if they were obtained through a formal education program.

Regardless of how you choose to format and display your licenses and certifications, it is important to provide enough information so that prospective employers can understand what each qualification represents. This may include information about the issuing organization, the date the qualification was obtained, and any relevant details about the training or testing process.

When including licenses and certifications on your resume, it is important to follow basic principles, such as making sure they are relevant and current, and to be honest and accurate. When deciding what to include, focus on those that are most relevant and demonstrate your expertise.

Examples of License and Certification Listings on a Resume

When it comes to creating a successful resume, it’s imperative to effectively highlight the licenses and certifications you have earned. Listing these qualifications allows potential employers to quickly identify your level of expertise and determine whether you would be a good fit for the role.

In this section, we will take a look at some sample resumes that effectively highlight licenses and certifications, and analyze what makes these listings effective.

Sample Resumes With License and Certification Listings

• Bachelor of Science in Nursing, XYZ University

Licenses and Certifications:

• Registered Nurse, State of California
• Certified Emergency Nurse (CEN)
• Basic Life Support (BLS) Provider
• Bachelor of Science in Computer Science, ABC University
• Cisco Certified Network Associate (CCNA)
• Bachelor of Business Administration, DEF University
• QuickBooks Certified

Analysis of What Makes These Listings Effective

One of the most important things to note about the sample resumes above is that they are concise, clear, and to the point. The information is presented in an easy-to-read format, which makes it simple for employers to quickly scan and determine whether the candidate is qualified.

Each listing includes the qualification and the issuing authority, which is crucial information for employers. This allows them to easily verify that the candidate has actually earned the licenses or certifications they claim to hold.

Additionally, the specific licenses and certifications listed are highly relevant to the type of role the candidate is seeking. For example, a registered nurse listing a Basic Life Support (BLS) certification would be expected, while a computer science graduate listing a CPA would raise questions about the relevance of the qualification.

Finally, all of the listings above are current and up-to-date, which is also an important consideration. If you have earned a qualification in the past, but it has since expired, it’s best not to include it on your resume as it may make you appear outdated or irrelevant.

Effective listings of licenses and certifications on a resume are concise, clear, and relevant to the role being applied for. By following these guidelines, you can effectively highlight your qualifications and increase your chances of success in your job search.

When to List Licenses and Certifications on Your Resume

As a job seeker, it’s important to understand when to highlight your licenses and certifications on your resume. Here are some guidance on when to list them:

Required Licenses and Certifications

If your profession requires a specific license or certification, it’s essential to list them on your resume. Not only does it demonstrate that you meet the basic qualifications for the job, but it also shows that you are compliant with legal and regulatory requirements.

For example, in the medical field, healthcare professionals must hold a valid license to practice. The same goes for attorneys, engineers, and many other professions subject to state licensing requirements.

Preferred Licenses and Certifications

If a job posting lists certain licenses and certifications as “preferred” qualifications, it’s recommended to include them in your resume as well. While they may not be required, highlighting these additional qualifications can make you a more competitive candidate.

For example, if a job posting for a marketing manager lists “Google AdWords certification” as a preferred qualification, mentioning that you have this certification can set you apart from other candidates who don’t have it.

In-Progress Licenses and Certifications

If you’re currently earning a license or certification that’s relevant to your profession, it’s acceptable to include it in your resume as “in progress.” Be sure to indicate the expected date of completion, and if possible, provide any additional details about the coursework or requirements.

For example, if you’re pursuing a project management certification, you can list it as “PMP (Project Management Professional) Certification – In Progress, Expected Completion Date: June 2022.” This shows that you’re dedicated to your professional development and willing to invest in your skills.

Advanced Strategies for Highlighting Your Licenses and Certifications

When it comes to highlighting your licenses and certifications on a resume, it’s important to make sure they stand out. Here are some tips to consider:

Tips for making your license and certification listings stand out:

• Use the appropriate formatting: Make sure your licenses and certifications are clearly labeled with the correct abbreviation, such as RN for Registered Nurse or PMP for Project Management Professional. You can also bold or italicize them to make them stand out.
• Focus on the most relevant: Only list the licenses and certifications that are most relevant to the job you’re applying for. This will help the employer see that you have the necessary skills and experience for the position.
• Order them strategically: If you have multiple licenses and certifications, list them in order of relevance to the job. This will help the employer quickly see that you have the qualifications they’re looking for.
• Provide context: Include information about the issuing organization or agency, the date obtained, and any notable accomplishments or specializations associated with the license or certification.

Showcasing licenses and certifications with specific accomplishments

Simply listing your licenses and certifications is not enough. You need to show how they have helped you achieve specific accomplishments in your career. Here are some ways to do this:

• Showcase how your certifications have advanced your career: Provide specific examples of how your certifications have helped you get promoted, take on additional responsibilities, or earn a higher salary.
• Include measurable achievements: If your license or certification has helped you achieve measureable results, such as improving patient outcomes or reducing costs, make sure to include this information on your resume.
• Link licenses and certifications to job-specific skills: Highlight how your licenses and certifications have helped you acquire specific job-related skills, such as leadership, communication, or problem-solving.
• Quantify your accomplishments: Use numbers and percentages to quantify your achievements. For example, if you earned a certification that helped you increase sales by 20%, make sure to include this information on your resume.

By following these advanced strategies, you can make sure your licenses and certifications stand out on your resume and demonstrate the specific accomplishments they have helped you achieve in your career.

How to Highlight Expired, Inactive, or Outdated Licenses and Certifications

As important as it is to include your licenses and certifications on your resume, it’s equally crucial to know when and how to highlight those that have expired, become inactive, or are simply outdated. Here are some helpful tips for managing such lapsed qualifications:

Tips for Dealing with Lapsed Licenses and Certifications

Be Transparent: First and foremost, always be transparent about the status of your licenses and certifications. If they are expired or inactive, mention it upfront. Trying to hide or deceive a potential employer about it could lead to serious consequences down the line.

Remove Them: If the lapsed license or certification is no longer relevant to the position you’re seeking, consider removing it completely from your resume. By doing so, you avoid creating any confusion or giving the impression that you’re trying too hard to qualify for a position.

Renew or Reactivate: If your license has expired, reach out to the issuing agency and see if you can renew it. Some certifications may have a grace period, during which you can complete additional education or recertification requirements to reactivate them.

Suggestions for Handling Older or Less Relevant Licenses and Certifications

Prioritize: Highlight the most recent and relevant licenses and certifications, and list them first. This ensures that hiring managers see the qualifications that directly relate to the position they’re looking to fill. Anything older or less relevant can be listed lower on your resume, or even removed entirely.

Consolidate: If you have several certifications or licenses in the same area or industry, consider consolidating them under a general heading, such as “Technical Certifications” or “Professional Licenses.” This saves space on your resume while still showcasing your expertise and qualifications.

Explain Their Relevance: If you’re listing a certification or license that may not be immediately relevant to the position you’re seeking, take a moment to explain why it’s still important. For example, if you have a certification in First Aid and CPR, which may seem unrelated to an office job, you could mention how it demonstrates your ability to stay calm in emergencies and handle unexpected situations.

Managing lapsed or outdated licenses and certifications requires transparency, prioritization, and effective communication. By following these tips and suggestions, you can ensure that your resume showcases your qualifications in the best possible light, while still being honest about your status.

Highlighting License and Certification Courses or Training on Your Resume

A well-crafted resume that communicates not only your skills and experience but also highlights relevant license and certification courses or training can stand out in a competitive job market. Employers increasingly look for employees who have additional qualifications that might boost their organization’s performance. Therefore, listing license and certification courses or relevant training shows employers that you are self-driven, dedicated to your profession, and have up-to-date knowledge of the field.

Why List Courses or Training on Your Resume?

Including license or certification courses or related training on your resume can increase the chances of getting a call for an interview from potential employers. Here’s why:

Demonstrates your willingness to learn: Including courses or training on your resume shows that you are committed to continuous learning, which many employers value.

Enhances the value of your credentials: Adding extra certifications or training to your educational background can help bolster your qualifications, making you more valuable as an employee.

Provides an insight about your skillset: The license and certification courses or relevant training you choose to list on your resume can showcase your understanding of industry trends and emerging technologies. This, in turn, demonstrates to hiring managers that you have the required skills to succeed in the role.

Ensures you stay compliant with industry laws and regulations: Employers prefer candidates who have completed legally mandated courses or training to comply with industry standards or regulatory requirements.

Relating Licenses and Certifications to Your Skills

Licensing and certification are great ways to showcase your skills and expertise in a specific area of work. These credentials demonstrate your commitment to your profession and your ability to meet certain standards.

When including licenses and certifications on your resume, it’s important to highlight how these credentials relate to your skills and expertise. For example, if you are a nurse, you may have a license that shows you are qualified to administer medication and provide patient care. These skills are crucial to your job, and having a license demonstrates to potential employers that you are well-equipped to handle these responsibilities.

Similarly, if you are a computer programmer, you may have certifications in programming languages or software applications. These certifications show that you have a deep understanding of these tools and are able to apply them effectively in your work.

When deciding which licenses and certifications to include on your resume, it’s important to be strategic. You may have a long list of credentials, but not all of them may be relevant to the job you are applying for.

Here are some factors to consider when deciding which credentials to include:

Relevance to the Job: The most important factor to consider is whether the credential is relevant to the job you are applying for. If the job requires certain skills, look for credentials that demonstrate your proficiency in those areas.

Level of Importance: Some credentials are more important than others. For example, if you are applying for a job as a teacher, having a teaching license is much more important than having a CPR certification.

Reputation: Consider the reputation of the organization that issues the credential. Some organizations are more respected than others, and having a credential from a respected organization can boost your credibility.

Recency: If you have multiple credentials, consider the recency of each one. If you have a credential that you earned years ago and haven’t used since, it may not be as impressive as a more recent credential.

In general, it’s a good idea to limit the number of licenses and certifications you include on your resume. Focus on the ones that are most relevant and impressive, rather than listing every credential you’ve ever earned.

Licenses and certifications are an important part of demonstrating your skills and expertise on a resume. By highlighting how these credentials relate to your work, and strategically deciding which ones to include, you can make your resume stand out to potential employers.

Common Mistakes to Avoid When Listing Licenses and Certifications on Your Resume

When adding licenses and certifications to your resume, it’s important to understand the common mistakes that could discredit or diminish their value. Here are some tips to avoid these pitfalls:

1. Listing Irrelevant Licenses and Certifications

The first obvious mistake is listing licenses and certifications that are irrelevant to the job you are applying for. Be sure to include only those credentials that are relevant and applicable to the job you are seeking. If the certification or license is not relevant, don’t include it.

2. Not Including Expiration Dates

Most licenses and certifications have expiration dates, and not including them can raise a red flag to a potential employer. To avoid this, be sure to include expiration dates for all licenses and certifications on your resume. It is also recommended to renew the licenses and certifications prior to their expiration to show that you are proactive in maintaining your credentials.

3. Not Providing Details

Simply listing the name of a license or certification without providing details can be ineffective. Provide additional information such as the date of issuance, the certifying organization, the issuing state or country, and any other pertinent details that showcase your expertise and proficiency.

4. Placing License or Certification Section in the Wrong Place

Overall placement of the section on licenses and certifications on your resume is a prime factor in whether the information will be noticed or overlooked. Proper placement of the licenses and certifications section is typically under the education section, but placement may vary depending on the individual resume.

5. Not researching licenses and certifications

Finally, not researching on the licenses and certifications can yield to problems. Do your research and make sure you understand the terms and requirements of each license and certification. Make sure to take a certification or license that is recognized in your geographic jurisdiction, and from an authorized institution.

Avoiding these common mistakes can greatly enhance the value of your licenses and certifications on your resume. Appropriately highlighting these details leads potential employers to see the expertise and credibility you hold. Properly represent your abilities and knowledge with a well-executed license and certification section.

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How to List Relevant Coursework On Resume [Tips & Examples!]

If you’re a college student, recent graduate, or entry-level professional, chances are you don’t have a lot of professional experience to list on your resume. 

This, in turn, might make you feel insecure about your application, especially considering that the work experience section is among the most important section of a resume. 

Well, listing your relevant coursework might just be the answer!

By listing the courses that are relevant to the job position or internship you’re applying for, you can show recruiters that while you don’t have much work experience, you have the right skills and knowledge for the job.

But what is the right way to list relevant coursework on your resume and is there a time when you shouldn’t list it all? And what exactly is relevant, to begin with?

In this article, we’re going to answer all those questions and more. Read on to learn:

When Is Relevant Coursework Necessary on a Resume?

• How to List Relevant Coursework on Your Resume in 3 Steps

7 Tips on Listing Relevant Coursework on Your Resume

Resume example with relevant coursework.

And more! Let’s dive right in. 

What Makes Coursework Relevant?

Professional experience is one of the most important sections of a successful resume, but you first need to land a job to start building it. 

Which begs the question, how can a recent graduate or entry-level professional prove they’ve got what it takes for an entry-level position with no, or minimal, professional experience ? 

Well, this is where coursework comes in. 

Together with academic projects and achievements, as well as extracurricular activities, listing relevant coursework can help students and entry-level professionals show they’ve got the necessary skills for the job despite not having the relevant professional experience.

The coursework you list on your resume should actually be related to the position you’re applying for.

For example, if you’re applying for a job as a graphic designer, listing your achievements in your World History class won’t really impress recruiters. If, on the other hand, you mention that you were top of your class in Design and Layout , you’ll be effectively showing recruiters that you have great potential as an up-and-coming graphic designer. 

To sum things up, here are the top cases when relevant coursework is necessary on a resume:

• When you’re still a student
• When you’re applying with an entry-level resume
• When you’re applying for an internship
• When the coursework is directly related to the job position 

If, on the other hand, you have 2+ years of work experience in the field, as well as the needed skill-set, coursework on your resume will only take up space and can be skipped entirely.

Checking the job description is another way of determining whether you should add relevant coursework to your resume. If, for example, the job description requires that you list your majors, GPA, diploma, or portfolio, chances are they’ll also be interested in your coursework, especially if it’s relevant to the position. 

How to List Relevant Coursework on Your Resume in 3 Steps 

So you’ve established that you should include relevant coursework on your resume. Now, you may be wondering where exactly to include it. 

As a rule of thumb, coursework is listed under an applicant’s education history. Depending on whether you have any professional experience to list, the education section may come before or after the work experience section. 

Here are the four best ways to add relevant coursework to your resume: 

#1. Add a New Line in Your Education Section

Instead of creating a fresh section called “Relevant Coursework,” you’re better off just adding the courses to your education section.

As a student resume can be one-page max , this helps you to save up the space needed for other essential resume sections.

Here’s a practical example of what this looks like on the resume of a recent graduate applying for a high-school teaching position: 

BA in World Literature 

UC Berkeley

2012 - 2016

Relevant coursework: British Literature, American Literature, Medieval Literature, William Shakespeare, Language and Cognitive Development 

#2. List Your Relevant Coursework in Bullet Points

To make your relevant coursework more visible and reader-friendly, list them in bullet points underneath your diploma title. 

Here’s how the above Literature graduate’s resume would look like following this formatting: 

Relevant Coursework: 

• British Literature
• American Literature 
• Medieval Literature 
• William Shakespeare 
• Language and Cognitive Development

#3. Explain How The Coursework is Relevant to the Position 

Finally, if you want to take your relevant coursework resume section to the next level, add detailed explanations to your courses to support how they’re relevant to the position you’re applying for or how they helped develop your skill-set. 

A recent study found that companies are suspending the use of degree completion as a proxy and instead now favor hiring on the basis of demonstrated skills and competencies . This means that your relevant coursework should aim to show exactly how it has helped you acquire the skills required for the position. 

Here’s an example of how that would play out for a journalism student applying for an entry-level reporting job at a newspaper:

B.A. in Journalism and Mass Communication

Northwestern University, IL

2015 - 2018

• Writing and Reporting: Learned the ins and outs of news reporting through several practical assignments and exams.
• Media Ethics: Got introduced to the most essential ethical theories and decision-making strategies in journalism and wrote a paper on Ethical Journalism and Human Rights that got published in the Political Communication Journal.
• Gathering and Developing the News: Gained first-hand experience in interviewing, researching, newsgathering, and communicating with sources.

To make sure your coursework is as relevant as possible, check out the required skills in the job description. If you have taken classes that have helped you master those skills, then make sure to mention how by adding all the necessary details, as shown above. 

Here are seven tips you should always keep in mind when listing coursework on your resume: 

• Take advantage of keywords . When evaluating your resume, recruiters scan it to look for the keywords that were mentioned in the job description (e.g. skills, experiences, etc.). You can re-read the job ad and, where relevant, include these keywords in your coursework section.
• Tailor your resume to the job offer.  In order for your coursework to add value to your resume, it really needs to be relevant. So, if you’re applying for a job that doesn’t take academic background into consideration or that’s completely unrelated to your major, you’re better off omitting coursework altogether and focusing on other important sections, such as your hard and soft skills. 
• List online courses. If you’ve completed some online courses that are relevant to the position you’re applying for, feel free to also include them under relevant coursework. 
• Add value through other academic achievements. Relevant coursework can say a lot about your potential, but recruiters will be even more easily convinced if you support it with other academic achievements, including your GPA, extracurricular activities, etc. 
• Show how you’ve grown. When you’re explaining your relevant coursework in detail, you can include how you’ve grown by listing all the skills you acquired in the process. Those can be both soft skills, like communication and interpersonal skills, and hard skills like programming or doing extensive research. 
• Change the relevant coursework as you progress. Many college students start working in their freshman year. If that’s the case with you, make sure to update your resume from year to year to reflect your academic journey and most recently acquired skills. 
• Check for errors. A well-written, error-free resume shows that you’re attentive to detail and that you care to make a good impression. 

Key Takeaways 

And that’s a wrap! You now have all the necessary information to add relevant coursework to your resume effectively. 

Before you start working on your resume, though, here’s a brief summary of the key points covered in this article:

• Listing relevant coursework on your resume is not mandatory but can be very helpful if you’re a student or an entry-level professional.
• If you have at least a year of professional experience, drop your relevant coursework and focus on tailoring your work experience and skills sections to the position. 
• Relevant coursework typically goes under the education section. You can either give a general or a detailed summary of your coursework. 
• You can make a separate relevant coursework section only if the job you’re applying for requires a strong academic record. 
• Your coursework needs to be relevant to the position. This means you should leave them out of your resume if they have nothing to do with the role.

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How to Include Relevant Coursework on a Resume (with Examples)

13 min read · Updated on September 11, 2023

If you are a recent graduate struggling with a lack of work experience, knowing how to include relevant coursework on a resume can be one of the best ways to create a more compelling resume narrative.

One thing that many recent college graduates have in common with one another is a general lack of work experience. That lack of experience can sometimes make it difficult for them to construct a resume that sells their potential to be the best candidate for a job. Fortunately, there are ways to still create a strong and compelling resume, even without experience. For example, did you take classes that might be relevant to the position? If so, including relevant coursework on your resume may be the perfect solution to your resume challenges.

In this post, we will explain how you can identify relevant coursework and where it should be listed in your resume. We will also include several examples of relevant coursework on a resume so that you can see the best options for using these details to strengthen your job search efforts.

What is relevant coursework?

Of course, when we talk about relevant coursework, we are talking about those classes and educational activities that have direct relevance to the position you are seeking. The first thing you need to recognize is that many of the classes you took during your college career will not need to be included in your resume. After all, most degrees require that students complete any number of basic foundational courses that will have little if any relation to their chosen job — at least from a resume standpoint. 

So, what types of classes, achievements, and activities should you focus on as you identify suitable courses to add to your resume? While this sounds like a simple question, it actually requires some serious thought and evaluation. Fortunately, there are some basic rules that you can follow as you make that determination. Below are just some of the potentially relevant things that you might want to include in your resume: 

Coursework that demonstrates that you have a foundation of knowledge in a required aspect of the job you are seeking. For example, if communication skills are needed for the position, you should include courses that focused on business communications, writing, etc.

Projects that are related to particular job skills. For a marketing position, you should include any marketing-related projects you completed during your studies. Or you could include research projects you engaged in if you are seeking a job where research skills are essential.

Academic achievements can also be included, including notably high GPA scores or awards you received. Also, be sure to include any related extracurricular activities. That could include everything from clubs to sporting activities if they helped you develop skills that would be useful for the job.

Again, do not include coursework that has no bearing on the job at hand. This will require you to carefully consider each course to determine its relevance. One way to do that is to read the job posting and select keywords and phrases of import that seem to be describing the skills or educational qualifications needed for the job. Then go through your coursework and try to match courses to those skills. As you do so, remember that some basic courses like those involving communication—both written and verbal—may be included, since communication is one of those soft skills that every company values .

You can learn more about the difference between hard and soft skills by reading our excellent article, Key Differences Between Hard Skills and Soft Skills . A better understanding of those critical soft skills can help to ensure that you don't underestimate the value of any of your classes. There's a great chance that you have more marketable soft skills than you realize! 

When should you include relevant courses on your resume?

Before you add your job-related classes to your resume, you should decide whether it is necessary. For example, you can almost certainly benefit from including your relevant coursework on your resume if: 

You recently graduated from school or are beginning the process of looking for a job because you are close to graduation. Students and recent graduates typically have little or no real job experience to highlight skills. Fortunately, their studies and project assignments will likely have helped them to develop important skills that they can highlight in their resumes.

Your educational achievements are necessary to qualify for the position you are seeking. In those instances, your prospective employer will be interested in knowing that you have fulfilled those requirements and have the basic knowledge needed for the position.

There may also be times when you need to include coursework even after you have been in the workforce for some time. For example, if you are switching careers and your current work experience does not include the skills needed for your new job, that may not matter as much if you can show that your studies prepared you for the role. 

Including coursework related to your minor

As you select relevant coursework for your resume, don't forget to consider courses of study related to your minor too. Hopefully, you will have selected a minor that is at least tangentially related to your desired career path. If so, then chances are that some of the courses you completed may have some relevance that can translate to a useful resume listing. For more information about minors and when they can be added to your resume, read How to Include a Minor on Your Resume .

When should I take coursework off my resume?

Obviously, there will be times when you should forgo any mention of your courses in your resume. Some examples of situations where you might not need to list your specific coursework include:

When your coursework is not really relevant to the position you seek. Including irrelevant coursework could actually distract from your important skills and experiences.

Situations in which coursework was completed so long ago that the information is no longer useful. For instance, many technology-related courses can lose their value over time. Other examples include old marketing courses and other educational achievements that involve skills that have evolved rapidly in recent years.

If your resume is already filled with enough work experience and skills that there is no need or room for specific course details. Remember, you want to add your courses to enhance your value as an employee. If adding a particular course does nothing more than add length to the resume, skip it. 

Where should relevant coursework be listed in your resume?

In most resumes, the coursework should be placed in the education section, with a subheading titled “Relevant Coursework.” When creating this part of the education section, you should insert the subheading under the name of your degree, with a list of the courses you studied. For example:

Bachelor's in [Name of Degree]

[College Name, City, Graduation Date]

Relevant Coursework: [Course 1], [Course 2], [Course 3], [Course 4], [Course 5]

Alternatively, you can also opt to show your courses in a bullet-point list if your resume is short and you need to fill more space. You can even elaborate on each course with a few words to describe the skills you learned in class. For example:

Relevant Coursework:

If you have no actual work experience, you may even want to consider using your education section as a substitute for that experience section. If you choose that option, you may want to place the education section closer to the top of your resume and flesh out each course in the same way you would detail a job listing in your work experience section. That means using detailed descriptions that include quantifiable results highlighting your achievements.

Key tips to remember when listing relevant coursework

Before we show you some examples of how to list relevant coursework on your resume, there are a few tips that can help to ensure that your final product is as compelling as possible. By incorporating these ideas into your resume creation process, you can more effectively make that all-important great first impression on any hiring manager.

Only list relevant coursework if you lack sufficient work experience to meet the job requirements.

Always make sure that the courses you list highlight skills and knowledge needed for the position. If a course has nothing to do with your chosen line of work, it has no place in your resume.

Relevant courses may be related to hard and soft skills.

If you choose to use descriptions for each course, use that as an opportunity to insert relevant keywords from the job description. This can be a great way to ensure that your resume can get past any applicant tracking system .

Always proofread your entire resume to eliminate spelling mistakes, punctuation and grammar errors, and style or formatting discrepancies.

Make sure that you tailor your resume to fit the job you want. Since you will likely be applying for different jobs during your job search, you may need to modify your educational coursework details to align with the needs of each position.

Do not forget to include important skill information in your coursework descriptions. Again, try to use those job description keywords.

If you are maintaining an updated resume throughout your educational career, be sure to continually edit your resume as your coursework evolves over time. This can make it easier to keep it updated and can save you some time when your job search begins.

3 Examples of relevant coursework on a resume

In this final section, we will explore some different examples to show you how you can successfully incorporate relevant coursework into your resume. We have included a couple of examples of the most basic listing options, as well as an expanded sample that enables you to provide more details and skills. You can refer to these samples and use them as guides as you create your own relevant coursework section.

Example #1: The Basics

Bachelor's in Information Technology

My College, Anytown 2022

Relevant Coursework: Cyber Security 101, Business Intelligence, Application Development, Networking and Telecom, Artificial Intelligence

This simple listing would be a good option for anyone who has at least some relevant work experience but who still needs an additional boost to meet the job requirements. In this case, the job seeker's coursework listing is presented in a minimalist format, documenting the specific courses and areas of focus—but without any other information about those studies.

Example #2: Bulletpoint List of Courses

Cyber Security 101

Business Intelligence

Application Development

Networking and Telecom

Artificial Intelligence

This option is similar to the first example but presents the classes and areas of focus as separate bullet points. This provides additional emphasis for each area of study, while also taking up a bit more space in the resume. This can be a great option if your resume is a little short and you need to expand the content.

Example #3: Detailed Format

My College, Anytown

Completed in 2022

Certified Cyber Security Expert, skilled in protecting data, information, and infrastructure.

Coursework included training on risk analysis, threat mitigation, compliance assurance, and cloud security.

Completed multiple projects and research assignments designed to test knowledge and adaptability to various types of cyber threats.

 Business Intelligence

Business analytics certificate, training focused on data interpretation and communication to resolve business problems with a data mindset.

Course included 3 projects testing analytical skills using hypothetical business challenges based on real-world business scenarios.

 Application Development

Courses focused on the development of software coding skills used for web application creation, troubleshooting, and debugging.

Final course project involved the creation of an independent web app to streamline online sales processes for a test company.

Training focused on routing, packet switching, and cybersecurity needs.

Spent eight weeks as a volunteer networking intern for a local ISP, receiving hands-on training from experienced networking professionals.

AI and machine learning studies, emphasizing tech integration into business processes, impact on sales and marketing, and ethical concerns.

Conducted study for the course final, evaluating potential AI benefits for enhanced marketing in the digital age and impact on online sales.

This more detailed example is a superior option for those who have no work experience and need their educational credentials to highlight their skills. In this sample, each area of interest is accompanied by bullet point details describing the types of courses studied and the lessons or skills developed during those classes. In addition, bullet points are added to highlight specific achievements, describe studies and real-world application of skills, and demonstrate competency in the subject matter.

This type of format can enable your coursework section to serve as a replacement for work experience if you have never been employed. When used for that purpose, you can expand on each course listing to include additional skills and keywords from the job post. Simply add new bullet points where needed to flesh out each area of emphasis.

Again, if you choose to replace your work experience section with this relevant coursework section, make sure that you move this section closer to the top of your resume so that it receives more prominence. Basically, if your strongest selling point is your education, then make sure that your important courses are one of the first things that a prospective employer sees. Also, you may want to highlight your educational qualifications in your resume summary so that the reader expects to see those coursework details.

Don't underestimate the power of a well-crafted and compelling resume

Finally, it is important to reiterate just how vital it is that your resume makes the best possible impression. When you approach the labor market with little or no work experience, you are usually already at a competitive disadvantage. There will almost always be someone else who has a similar level of skill and educational background, as well as real-world experience. To compete against a qualified rival, you need a resume that can effectively sell you as the best candidate for the job.

For recent graduates and job seekers moving to entirely new careers, a lack of relevant work experience can be a major impediment to landing job interviews and employment offers. One way to overcome this obstacle is to learn how to use relevant educational coursework on your resume to highlight your qualifications and skills. Hopefully, this post and its resume examples can provide you with the inspiration and help you need to translate your educational experience into a compelling resume narrative. Fortunately, there are ways to ensure that your resume effectively positions you to have the best chance at landing any interview and job. To make sure that your resume is up to par, get a  free resume review  today. And if you really want to be sure that your resume is ready for prime time, take a few moments to discover just how easy it is to get professional resume assistance from our team of experts!

Recommended Reading:

What Should I Say About My Education On My Resume?

Ask Amanda: What's the Best Way to List Education on a Resume?

14 Reasons This is a Perfect Recent College Grad Resume Example

Related Articles:

Do Hiring Managers Actually Read Cover Letters?

How to Create a Resume With No Education

From Bland to Beautiful: How We Made This Professional's Resume Shine

See how your resume stacks up.

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Exactly When, Where, and How to List Certifications on Your Resume (Because You’ve Earned Them)

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by Regina Borsellino, original published at The Muse

As you  write your resume , many of the things you need to include may have an obvious place: Your past jobs go in your work experience section, your education goes in your education section, and your skills go in your  skills section . But what about certifications? They’re not quite experience or education, but they can be just as—if not more—important to you landing your next job.

We’ll tell you exactly when to include certifications on your resume and how, but first…

What Are Certifications?

A certification is a standardized professional credential—that is, everyone with a certification must meet the same requirements—issued by professional associations, organizations, or companies. You often need to pass exams and may need to meet certain education and experience requirements to obtain one. For example, a Project Management Professional (PMP) certification is issued by the  Product Management Institute , and in order to receive it you must have a minimum number of months of experience leading projects, complete a minimum number of hours of project management training or a lower-level certification from PMI, and pass the PMP exam.

A certification that checks all of these boxes but is issued by a government or regulatory body and/or is legally required in order to do a certain job is called a license, says  Heather Yurovsky , Muse career coach and founder of  Shatter & Shine . For example, to legally practice as a nurse in New York State you must have a  NYS nursing license , which requires completing an approved nursing degree, undergoing background checks, and passing the NCLEX exam. Teachers, doctors, social workers and other mental health professionals, accountants, and lawyers are also among the professionals who often need licenses to practice. Licenses are also more likely to require ongoing education and training to stay current in your field and can expire if you don’t keep them current, Yurovsky says.

Meanwhile, certificates and  online courses  are not certifications. They’re not standardized and are often education-based rather than experience- or assessment-based. Certificates might be issued by universities, colleges, or vocational schools and show that you completed a set of classes (usually fewer than a degree) or they might “showcase your completion of online courses and learning and development trainings,” Yurovsky says. For example you can get a certificate in  Cybersecurity Technology  from the University of Maryland Global Campus or a  Front-End Web Developer Certificate  from edX. Individual companies may require certain certificates when hiring for roles, but you generally aren’t shut out of a career without one. When relevant, certificates still belong on your resume, but you might consider putting them in your resume’s  education section  (especially when issued by a school) or otherwise distinguishing them from your certifications. If you want to include online courses and certificates on your resume, read more  here .

When Should You Include Certifications on Your Resume?

If you have a certification or license that is required or preferred for the role you’re applying to, definitely put it on your resume. Beyond that, “like with all information in your resume, you want to feature certifications that are relevant to the role you’re pursuing,” Yurovsky says. Think about whether a certification shows how qualified you are as a candidate for  this specific role.  For instance, if you’re applying for a help desk or other IT support role, a  CompTIA A+  certification that proves you’ve been tested on your IT skills will add to your resume even if the job description doesn’t ask for it.

Think about what each of your certifications is saying to a recruiter or hiring manager who reads your resume and what  transferable skills  it communicates. For example, that PMP certification will show that you can manage teams through complex projects and that you likely have strong leadership, communication, and organization skills, which might add to your qualifications not just for a project management job, but for any role where you have direct reports or are overseeing complicated processes. And, as the name suggests, a Google Analytics Individual Qualification shows that you’re an expert in Google Analytics, which might add to your value when being considered for a marketing, content, or data role.

Use the same principles to decide what to leave off your resume. You want your resume  to be tailored  so it’s clear to recruiters why you’ve applied to  this  job. Irrelevant qualifications could leave them confused or make them think you applied to a job that’s not in your field accidentally or indiscriminately. So that CPR certification from your summers as a camp counselor can probably come off your resume as you look for a full-time sales role, and the fact that you’re licensed to teach in Florida probably doesn’t matter if you’re looking for a job in tech—unless you want to pivot to edtech.

How Do You List Certifications on Your Resume?

If you’ve decided to list your certifications or licenses on your resume, there are a few places you can do it. You might consider making a “Professional Certifications,” “Licenses,” or similar section or, Yurovsky says, you can include them in your “Education” section—which you might consider renaming “Education and Certifications” for clarity.

Generally, your certification and license sections should go at the bottom of your resume—below your work experience but above education. However, you always want to lead your resume with the most important information, so if you’re an  entry-level candidate , you might consider moving your certifications and licenses up to the top of the page.

For each certification and license that you list on your resume include:

• The full name of the certification (any common abbreviation can be included in parentheses)
• The issuing organization (or state)
• The date you earned the certification
• The location (if applicable and not implied by the issuer)
• Additional additional details or add-ons (if applicable)

If you’re still working on the certification, give your reader the proper context and avoid any awkward interview moments by including “In Progress” next to the name of the certification and/or “Expected” before the month and year you’re on track to complete the program, Yurovsky says.

How would this look in practice? Here are a few examples:

Certifications Project Management Professional (PMP) ,  Project Management Institute  – June 2020 Certified ScrumMaster (CSM) ,  Scrum Alliance  – January 2017

Licenses Professional Educator License (PEL) | State of Illinois | Expected: January 2021 Endorsements: Elementary Education, Special Education

You can also immediately signal that you have your most important certification or license by including it in a  resume summary  or  headline . Particularly in the case of licenses or certifications that are “key to the position at hand,” Yurovsky says, you might also include the abbreviation next to your name at the top separated by a comma. For example, if you’re a registered nurse applying for a nursing role at a hospital, you might write, “Priya Anand, RN” at the very top of the page; or if you’re applying to a position that requires a CPA, go ahead and put “Timothy Oluwa, CPA” as your header. When you literally can’t do the job without that qualification, making it crystal clear that you’ve already jumped that hurdle will only help you.

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• Resume and Cover Letter
• How to List Certifications on...

How to List Certifications on a Resume (with Examples)

11 min read · Updated on March 21, 2024

Learn when and how to list your certifications on your resume with these tips and examples

Each week, TopResume's career advice expert, Amanda Augustine, answers user questions on Quora like the one below . A certified professional career coach (CPCC) and resume writer (CPRW), Amanda has been helping professionals to improve their careers for over 10 years. Have a question for Amanda? Submit it here .

Q: What's the best way to include licenses - and other important certifications - on a resume?

I suggest including a list of your relevant credentials toward the end of your resume, in a section labeled “Education and Professional Development.” If you have a number of licenses and certifications, you may decide to create a separate section below “Education” to showcase this information. However, only include licenses or certifications on your resume if they support your current job goals.

Read Amanda Augustine 's full answer to "What's the best way to include licenses on a resume?" on Quora.

How to list certifications on a resume 

Earning a certification shows you have drive, purpose, and a specific set of skills and expertise. Therefore, it's a smart move to have relevant certifications on your resume. That said, knowing how and where to incorporate them is essential to ensure you stand out while aligning with resume standards. 

Read on to learn about certifications, why they add value, and when and how to include them on your resume. We even share some examples!

What are certifications on a resume?

Certifications are credentials issued by accredited institutions, including various associations, boards, schools, and professional organizations. Achieving a certification indicates you have proficiency in a particular skill, or have reached a certain level of knowledge or technical know-how, in a specific area of expertise. 

To receive a certification, you generally have to do one or all of the following:

Prove years of experience

Pass an assessment

Is it worth it to get certified?

Certifications take time, effort, and, sometimes, money. So you might be wondering if they're truly worth it. The short answer is yes, they definitely can be. However, at the end of the day, it depends on several factors. 

When certifications are worth it

Certifications and licenses indicate that you took the time and effort to pursue personal and professional development - it shows you're committed to your career. From that perspective, certifications and licenses can impress prospective employers. 

A relevant certification can set you apart from other job applicants if all else remains equal between you.

It goes without saying that if a certification or license is required by an employer or to work in a particular field, then having the certificate or license is not only helpful but necessary. For example, you can only work as an independent Certified Public Accountant, or CPA, with that specific certification. In most states, certification and licensure are also required to work independently as a Counselor or Social Worker. 

Securing a certification can be beneficial if you want to change careers or land a job with little experience. 

Certifications are a great way to showcase your skills and industry knowledge. 

When certifications might not be worth it

They aren't relevant to your career aspirations.

The cost outweighs the value added to your resume and career in general.

You already hold a required degree or certification that supersedes the certificate you're considering, making it less relevant or necessary to add to your resume.

Overall, when they're worth it, certifications on a resume can boost your job hunt by:

Enhancing your resume

Setting you apart from other candidates

Showing employers that you're a qualified candidate

When should you include certifications on a resume?

Even though they're not required, there are several reasons to highlight certifications as a way to take your resume from decent to excellent. Below, we outline the top five.

To meet an employer's requirements

A key reason to include your certifications on your resume is when the employer requires it. Suppose the employer requires a specific certification, and it's not on your resume. In that case, it will likely disqualify your resume from moving forward. Refer to the job description and the company's website to determine what certifications might be needed. 

To showcase your skills

Your certification could provide valuable skills beyond what's required by the employer. For example, let's say you're applying for an Administrative Assistant position in a project-driven department, and you list your Certified Associate in Project Management, or CAPM, on your resume. In that case, the certification shows that you're knowledgeable in project management in addition to having the required admin expertise, which can set you apart from other candidates. 

To make up for a lack of work experience

Sometimes, even with the necessary skills, you might lack the years of experience a company requires for a job opening. In that case, your certification could help to compensate for the lack of practical experience. Plus, many employers like to hire those who are personally vested in their professional development outside of employment. 

To emphasize your industry knowledge

Since some certifications require you to have a certain number of years in a particular field or position, highlighting your certification on your resume speaks to those years of experience and acquired knowledge. If this is the case for your certification, listing it further validates your work experience . 

To support changing careers

When changing careers , you need to highlight transferable skills from previous work experience on your resume. You might also seek training and volunteer opportunities to compensate for a lack of direct experience. Another great way to boost your resume is to acquire a certification or two that encompasses the required skills and knowledge needed for your new career path. 

How do you list certifications on a resume?

Now you know why to include certifications on your resume. Next, and more important, is knowing how to add them. 

Let's dive into the necessary steps on how to list certifications on a resume:

List the certification title first. Include the full title of the certification under the certifications section of your resume. Be sure to spell out any abbreviations or acronyms, to ensure the resume reader knows what the certification is and can more easily look it up if needed. 

Include the issuing organization. Provide the name of the issuing organization below the title of the certification. This increases the credential's credibility and provides the hiring manager with additional data to confirm the credential.

Provide the date it was secured. You should insert the date the certification was issued, so it's clear how long you've held the credential. Including the year also makes it easier for hiring managers to verify it with the organization that issued it. 

Add the renewal date. If your credential expires and requires renewal, add the date it was renewed or the expiration date, in addition to when it was issued.

Provide additional details. An optional choice is to incorporate details about the certification, like the skills the certification speaks to or confirms you have. Do this to help the hiring manager see the relevance to the job only if you have space for it. If your resume would spill onto another page, avoid including this type of info. 

Should you include certifications in progress?

Yes. If you have relevant certifications in progress, include all the details mentioned above. Use the expected issue date in place of the issued date.

Where do you add certifications on a resume?

While certifications aren't required on a resume, as previously mentioned, they can increase your competitiveness when you have them. If you choose to share them, you might wonder where they belong. 

Let's discuss the four areas in which you can add certifications on your resume. 

1. In a Certifications section

The first place you can incorporate certifications on your resume is under a section titled “Certifications.” This section should go below your education section. If you hold licenses and certifications, you can call the section "Certifications and Licenses" or "Professional Development." 

Here are some examples of how to add certifications to a resume in a standalone certifications section.

Examples of certifications on a resume:

Certified Nursing Assistant,  City College of San Francisco, June 2020

Public Notary, WV  Secretary of State, Issued: May 2022,  Renewal date: May 2026

CPR,  National CPR Foundation, July 2021,  Expiration date: July 2023

Certified Information Systems Security Professional (CISSP),  International Information System Security Certification Consortium, Jan. 2022.  Skills: Risk Management, Asset Security, Security Operations, Software Development Security

Examples of certifications in progress on a resume:

Certified Nursing Assistant (in progress),  City College of San Francisco.  Expected date of completion: Apr. 2024

CPR,  National CPR Foundation (in progress).  Expected date of completion: May 2024

2. In your Education section

Generally, it's best to list certifications in a Certification section below your Education section . However, you can also opt to place your certifications in your Education section. This is especially true under the following circumstances:

You only have one certification

Your certification was achieved during your college years

If you received your certification during college, you can include it with your degree as follows: 

Bachelor of Science, Computer Science, 2018 ITIL Foundation Certification, 2017 Western Governer's University

If you decide, based on personal circumstances, to place your certifications in your Education section, you can choose to call the section  “Education and Professional Development,” as Amanda noted in her response above. Some other section headings you could use are:

Education and Certifications 

Education and Training

Education and Credentials

If you have only one certification, you'll list your degrees first and then your certification. For example:

EDUCATION AND CERTIFICATIONS

Bachelor of Science, Data Science,  West Virginia University, 2018

Certified Data Scientist,  Coursera, 2019

Though not preferred, as mentioned above, you can also have more than one certification listed with your education section. Do this by adding a certifications heading after your degrees and then adding the certifications in reverse chronological order as follows:

Master of Science, Analytics,  Georgia Institute of Technology, 2022

CERTIFICATIONS

Certified Information Systems Auditor (CISA),  Cybrary, 2023

Certified Data Scientist,  Udemy, 2020

3. In your resume summary

If you hold a certification or license that is considered a major selling point for the positions you're targeting during your job search, you may decide to incorporate this information into your professional summary at the top of your resume as well. For example:

Certified Senior Professional in Human Resources (SPHR) with over 15 years of experience servicing the oil and gas industry. Dedicated to enhancing employee relations at all levels within an organization. Intuitive problem solver and leader, driving growth and best practices while delivering HR services, growth strategies, compensation analysis, and benefits design. 

4. With your contact information

You can take it one step further and incorporate the acronym for your most coveted credentials after your name at the top of your resume. For example, Amanda, mentioned above, lists her name as "Amanda Augustine, CPCC & CPRW" on her resume and other personal branding materials, because these certifications demonstrate her expertise in career coaching and resume writing . 

Following your name is the only time you should use the certification's acronym rather than spelling it out. However, if the acronym is ambiguous, or could stand for more than one thing, spell it out - assuming it doesn't take up too much space. An example would be CMA, which can stand for Certified Medical Assistant or Certified Management Accountant. 

Some additional examples of including a certification as part of your contact information are:

Mary Smith, CPA

Ronald Jones, PHR & SHRM-CP

Roger Smithson, Certified Medical Assistant

By mentioning your certifications and licenses at the top of the resume and listing additional details at the bottom under a specified certifications section, you're ensuring a recruiter or hiring manager doesn't accidentally overlook one of your key selling points during his very quick look at your resume.

Which certifications look good on a resume?

There are numerous certifications that look good on a resume.  Ten popular certifications include:

Certified Administrative Professional (CAP) 

Project Management Professional (PMP)

Professional in Human Resources  (PHR) and Senior Professional in Human Resources (SPHR)

Society of Human Resource Management Certified Professional (SHRM - CP) and Society of Human Resource Management Senior Certified Professional (SHRM - SCP)

Certified Financial Planner

Certified Information Systems Security Professional (CISSP)

Certified Data Scientist 

Certified Business Analysis Professional (CBAP)

CPR Certification

Certified Supply Chain Professional (CSCP)

The type of certification you pursue will depend on your areas of interest, industry, and the kind of job you're aiming for. 

Click on the following link to check out TopResume's library of resume samples , including some that incorporate a license or certification section. When you've added your certifications to your resume, why not send it for a free resume review  by one of our experts?

This article was originally written by Amanda Augustine and has been updated by Ronda Suder. 

Recommended reading: 

How to Check if My Resume Is ATS-Friendly for Free

9 Soft Skills Employers Want in 2023

How to Make a Great Resume for a Mid-Level Professional

Related Articles:

Do Hiring Managers Actually Read Cover Letters?

How to Create a Resume With No Education

From Bland to Beautiful: How We Made This Professional's Resume Shine

See how your resume stacks up.

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Our experts gather the best career & resume tips weekly. Delivered weekly, always free.

Thanks! Career advice is on its way.

Share this article:

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