how to write a bachelor's degree on a resume

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How to Write Your Degree on a Resume

Last Updated: April 19, 2024 Fact Checked

This article was co-authored by Colleen Campbell, PhD . Dr. Colleen Campbell is the Founder and CEO of The Ignite Your Potential Centers, Career and Life Coaching based in the San Francisco Bay Area and Los Angeles. Colleen received her MA and PhD in Clinical Psychology from Sofia University and has been career coaching since 2008. There are 7 references cited in this article, which can be found at the bottom of the page. This article has been fact-checked, ensuring the accuracy of any cited facts and confirming the authority of its sources. This article has been viewed 396,519 times.

Including information about your degree in a resume can be tricky business. You might wonder where to place your education section, how to list multiple degrees, or whether to list things like dates or your GPA. While there are few set rules about formatting or including content, there are several guidelines to follow. Format your education and other sections consistently. Include your university, its location, and your degree title, and list the date only if you’re a recent grad. Be concise and strategic when writing your resume, and try to include only relevant information that will make your application as competitive as possible.    

Sample Resumes

Formatting Your Education Section

• For example, if you bold employers’ names in your experience section, write your college in bold, especially if it’s a prestigious school or one known for excellence in your field.
• Use a standard sans-serif font, like Arial, for easy readability. Use a 10-12 point size for general text and 14-16 point for section headings.   

• If you’re a recent grad with a high GPA, you could opt to include your GPA. Just be sure to explain your GPA system by writing, for example, “3.92/4.0.”
• You can also include your graduation year if you’re a recent grad. Otherwise, you should avoid including dates, especially if your degree is older than 15 years.
• An example degree listing could be: Yale University, New Haven, CT. Bachelor of Arts in English, Magna cum laude .

• Avoid unnecessary words elsewhere in your resume, too. For example, don’t write “Email:” or “Phone:” before listing your contact information. Just write your email address and phone number.

• If you’re not a recent grad or have substantial professional experience, place your relevant experience section ahead of your education. In general, professional experience is more valuable information than your education.

• If you double majored, you can just list both degrees in the same section under your university: Yale University , New Haven, CT. Double major: Bachelor of Arts, English. Bachelor of Arts, Art History.

• If not, and if your high school diploma is your highest degree, include your high school's name and location, graduation date (if it's within the last three years), and, if it's above a 3.5/4.0, your GPA: Nashua High School, Nashua, New Hampshire High School Diploma, 2016. GPA: 3.8
• If your highest degree is a GED diploma or state equivalent certificate, include it if you don't have substantial work experience: Education General Educational Development Diploma, 2016. Education CHSPE (Certificate of Proficiency from the State of California), 2016.

Including the Best Information

• Don’t include undergraduate degree acronyms after your name. For example, never write, “Jane Smith, B.A.”

• Exceptions to this rule include study abroad programs or coursework at prestigious institutions. For example, you might include relevant information like this: University of Georgia , Athens, GA. Bachelor of Science in Biology (Marine Biology emphasis), 2016. University of Auckland , Auckland, New Zealand. Study abroad program with emphasis in ecological preservation.

• For example, you could describe an incomplete undergraduate degree like this: Yale University , New Haven, CT. Bachelor of Science, Biology (expected 2017)
• You could describe a graduate degree like this: Yale University , New Haven, CT Master of Business Administration degree candidate Thesis under development; anticipated completion June 2018

Tailoring Your Resume for Each Application

• For example, suppose you’re applying for an engineering job and earned an undergraduate degree in mechanical engineering in 2009 and a master’s in graphic design in 2012. You should list your engineering degree first.
• You might have also researched your prospective job and found that the department head who will read your resume graduated from your undergraduate university. You might then want to include your undergraduate degree first and place your education section at the top of your resume.

• For example, you could structure your education section like this: B.S. in Mechanical Engineering , University of Texas, Austin, TX. Relevant courses : Thermodynamics, Properties of Engineering Materials, Solid Mechanics, Dynamics of Machines, Strength of Mechanical Components.

• For example, instead of listing computer programs and other skills you learned at school in a block of text under your degree, put them in a separate section at the top of your resume. Be sure to include skills, programs, and other keywords from the job posting.    

Expert Q&A

You Might Also Like

• ↑ https://careercenter.georgetown.edu/major-career-guides/resumes-cover-letters/resume-formatting-tips/
• ↑ https://www.indeed.com/career-advice/resumes-cover-letters/how-to-list-education-on-a-resume
• ↑ https://www.indeed.com/career-advice/resumes-cover-letters/high-school-education-on-resume
• ↑ https://www.southeastern.edu/admin/career_srv/student_alumni/build_a_resume/assets/resume-faq2.pdf
• ↑ https://careerservices.fas.harvard.edu/blog/2023/01/17/exactly-when-where-and-how-to-list-certifications-on-your-resume-because-youve-earned-them/
• ↑ https://career.arizona.edu/resources/tailoring-your-resume/
• ↑ https://icc.ucdavis.edu/materials/resume/step2

About This Article

To write your degree on your resume, start by writing the name of your school, followed by where it's located. Then, write your degree and any honors you received. For example, you would write something like, “Yale University, New Haven, CT. Bachelor of Arts in English, 2.1” If you’re a recent grad with a high GPA, you can include your score at the end. Write your degree at the top of your education section so it’s above your high school. If you've completed or you're currently studying a postgraduate degree, put this above your undergraduate degree so it's in chronological order. In addition to your major, feel free to include your minor underneath if it’s relevant to the job you’re applying for. If you haven’t graduated yet, you can still include your degree on your resume, but make it clear that you’re still studying by putting something like, “Expected 2020,” in brackets at the end. For more tips from our Careers co-author, including how to tailor your resume for each job application, read on! Did this summary help you? Yes No

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What to Include in Your Education Section

The education section on a resume gives hiring managers a glimpse into your academic achievements , interests, and skills.

It can demonstrate your commitment to learning, your ability to succeed in a structured environment, and the relevant knowledge you've acquired.

The information you should include in this section, though, varies based on things like your career level, the exact job you're applying for, and how recent your education is.

This means you don’t always have to be super detailed. Some of the information about your education is optional, and some of it may even be redundant if you have relevant work experience, so you should only use it if you think it can give your resume a boost.

Let’s start with the details most employers expect to see:

Essential Information

• Degree Name. Include the type of degree and the relevant major. (E.g.: BFA in Graphic Design)
• University Name. Add the name of the institution you studied at. (E.g.: University of Saint Andrews)
• Location. If the university isn’t well known or the name doesn’t specify where it is, include the general location. (E.g.: St Andrews, Scotland)
• Years Attended. Usually, only the years you attend there are enough, but the mm/yyyy format is also popular. (E.g.: 09/2018 - 06/2021)

Optional Information

• Honors and Awards. If you’ve received any acknowledgments, list them here. (E.g.: Dean's List, Summa Cum Laude, Merit Scholarships, Valedictorian)
• Relevant Coursework. List three to five courses that directly apply to your target job. (E.g.: Marketing 101, Marketing Strategy, PR Basics)
• Thesis or Dissertation. We recommend including this for graduate-level degrees in research-heavy fields.
• Minor. If relevant, include any additional areas of study. (E.g.: BA in Creative Writing, Minor in Journalism)
• Grade Point Average. Only include your GPA if it's 3.5 or above on a 4.0 scale. Anything lower can undermine your application.
• Extracurricular Activities. Mention any clubs or organizations that seem relevant. (E.g.: Debate team, Theater Club, School Newspaper)

Here’s an example of an education section that includes information from both categories:

Getting ready to find a job? Start by learning how to write a resume with our detailed guide!

How to Format Education on Your Resume

Now that you have an idea of what to include in your education section, let’s explain how you should do it.

In terms of structuring your education section, follow a reverse-chronological order ; this means, list your latest educational entry first and then go backward from there.

And remember – if you have a relevant university degree, there’s no need to waste precious space on your resume by listing your high school education .

As a general rule, if you’re an experienced professional and you have a Master’s degree, you can also omit your undergrad degree. Hiring managers are a lot more interested in your work experience section, so your education section should only focus on the basics.

However, if you’re a recent graduate , you might want to include more details to give your resume an extra kick. It’s always a good idea to leverage your education if you don’t have enough relevant work experience.

Now, regardless of your level of experience, add the name of your degree at the very top of the entry in your education section.

The same degree can be written down differently, for instance:

• Bachelor of Arts in English Language and Culture with a Minor in Teaching
• BA in English Language and Culture, Minor in Teaching
• B.A. English Language and Culture (Major), Teaching (Minor)
• BA, English Language and Culture

Here’s an example of what the formatting in your education section should look like:

If you graduated from a famous university with a good reputation, you can highlight that first. For example, list “Harvard University” before the name of your degree.

Where to Place Education on Your Resume

Another important thing to consider is where to position the education section on your resume.

This mostly depends on where you are in your career. Do you have a lot of relevant achievements in the field, or are you looking for your first job ?

As a rule of thumb, the top third of your resume should be reserved for your accomplishments , which are most relevant to the job you are applying for.

So before you place this section on your resume, ask yourself: is your education your biggest selling point to the hiring manager?

Most of the time, it won’t be. Work experience is way more important for just about any position above entry level, so it should be listed first.

Let’s look at an example of a resume that puts this into action:

As you can see, this architect resume starts by listing their relevant work experience and then includes a detailed entry of their most recent degree.

When Does Education Go Before Work Experience?

While your work experience section is generally more important, there are a few cases where you should list your education first.

These include:

• You have no work experience. When you have absolutely no work experience yet, you should focus on your academic achievements instead.
• You just graduated college. If you don’t have relevant work experience, you’re often better off not listing it. For example, if you’re applying for an entry-level office job, the part-time teenage jobs you had won’t be anywhere near as relevant as your recently earned BA in Marketing.
• You are currently studying. If you’re in the process of earning a degree that’s relevant to your targeted field, it’s better to list education before work experience. For example, if you’re making a career change , you would want your new education to be the first thing the hiring manager sees.
• You recently earned a new degree. Getting a fresh MSc, Ph.D., or MBA in your field is worth showing off. For example, if you’ve been a line manager for years but earned an MBA to qualify for an executive position, your education section should go first.
• You are applying to academia. Usually, when applying for a research or teaching position in academia, you’ll need an academic CV , not a resume. In that case, your education will always come first.

Not sure if you need a CV or a resume ? Check out our guide to learn what the difference between the two is and when to use which.

Use a (Free) Resume Template

Creating a resume can be a hassle.

You have to find a template that works with your favorite text editor, set the page margins, adjust the line spacing, choose a professional font , and all while making sure you never go past page one.

What if there was an easier way?

This is where our resume builder comes in!

Novoresume lets you choose from 16 professional resume templates , each crafted with feedback from HR professionals around the world, and create the perfect resume in minutes.

Just look at how one of our resume templates compares to a basic text editor resume template:

16 Examples of Education on a Resume

Looking for inspiration?

We’ve compiled a list filled with real-life examples of how education can be listed on a resume, with practical examples for different types and levels of education:

#1. High School Education

If you’re a high school student, you might have some volunteer experience or extracurriculars you can show off. In that case, you can start by listing those sections, so long as they’re relevant to the job you’re applying for.

For example, if you volunteered with your local branch of the Red Cross, that’s a good experience to have when you’re applying to work at a shelter.

In most other cases, the education section would take the upper hand, and it would look something like this:

High School Diploma

Chapel Hill High School

2017 - 2021

• Courses: AP Science, Mathematics, Advanced Chemistry

If you’re still in high school, you can disclose it in your resume by writing down your expected graduation year or otherwise specifying that you’re currently still there.

2021 - Present

#2. General Education Development

If you were homeschooled or haven’t graduated high school, the previous example won’t apply to you.

But if you still received a General Education Development certificate, you can mention that in your resume in the following way:

GED Diploma

Durham Literacy Center

Just like with high school education, you can include the location of your school or GED center, as well as any relevant courses, if you have enough space.

#3. Associate Degree

If you went to a community college or opted for a vocational program, you can list it in your education section the same as any other undergraduate degree.

Associate degrees are typically cheaper and take less time than a bachelor’s degree. They tend to be focused on specific occupations and place more emphasis on daily job functions. Other than that, they follow the same formatting as any other educational entry.

Let’s look at some real-life examples of different types of degrees at this level.

First, an Associate of Arts degree:

AA in Business Designation

Community College of Denver

2015 - 2016

Summa Cum Laude

Next, here’s how you would list an ongoing Associate’s of Applied Science degree:

AAS in Medical Assisting

2018 - Present

Some associate degrees are what’s known as “transfer degrees.” Here, the long-term goal is to transfer into a bachelor’s degree program.

Similarly, if you’ve completed accredited courses at a community college that can go towards a degree, you can list them under your education section, like this:

Medical Assisting Certificate

• 30 credits completed

#4. Certificates

Certificates can be included on your resume, either as part of the education section or in a dedicated section.

Unlike broad academic degrees, certificates can show specialized expertise and commitment to professional development. They tend to demonstrate more focused, essential skills that are directly applicable to a particular job or industry.

Treat these entries the same as any other: list the name of the certificate, the institution or organization that issued it, and the year you obtained it.

Here’s an example of how to list a professional certificate in an education section:

Certified Public Accountant (CPA)

American Institute of CPAs

And here’s how they would look in a separate section:

CERTIFICATES

• Certified Personal Trainer (CPT) - National Academy of Sports Medicine, 2020
• Certified Nutrition Coach - American Nutrition Association, 2023

But there are also other certificates you could list , such as after specialized software courses:

• Maya Autodesk: Advanced 3D & Animation Udemy, 2022
• Creation of Pixel Art Scenes for Video Games Domestika, 2023

#5. Undergraduate Degree

There are different ways to list a bachelor’s degree.

Let’s take a look at three different cases for a candidate with an engineering degree.

First, if you’ve graduated from university and received the degree, list it according to the following template:

B.Sc. Mechanical Engine ering

University of California, Berkeley

2002 - 2006

If you obtained a double major, you would write it down as:

B.Sc. in Mechanical Engineering and Civil Engineering

If you have two or more majors, keep in mind that you should list the major that’s most relevant to the job you are applying to.

For example, if you majored in Applied Languages and International Relations, you should focus on the languages for a job as a translator.

Lastly, if you’re still attending college, just omit the finishing year when filling in your education section and add “Present” instead, like so:

But there are also different ways you can specify that you’re still studying. Instead of “Present,” you could write:

• 2021 - Current
• Expected Graduation: 2024
• 2021 - 2024 (expected graduation)
• 2021 - In progress
• To Be Completed: 2024

#6. Graduate and Postgraduate Degrees

Graduate-level education is, in general, more detailed since it requires participating in a more focused area of research on top of your graduate-level work. 

At this level, you probably contributed to the field with a dissertation of your own, which you should include in your resume.

Here’s an example:

Ph.D. in Brain and Cognitive Sciences

University of Rochester

Dissertation: Imaging, Computational Analysis, & Neural Representations in Young Children

Graduate and postgraduate education often includes scholarships , fellowships, or outside funding involved, which you might want to include in addition to all the general information about your degree.

Here are some real-life examples:

MBA in Business Administration

University of Maine

• Avangrid Scholarship
• Magna Cum Laude

When it comes to honors and awards, there are different ways you can list them to save space on your resume. Here’s an example that mentions them but leaves more space for the dissertation title:

MSc. in Information Systems

WU Vienna University of Economics & Business

Salutatorian, Summa Cum Laude

2015 - 2017

Dissertation: Leveraging User-Generated Content for Advertising Purposes Through Information Systems

And if you’re still studying, don’t forget to check out our student resume templates to get started on your job hunt.

#7. Unfinished Education

Even if you didn’t graduate from university, you can still mention it in your education section. Just be strategic about it.

If you have several years of relevant coursework from a degree program that relates to the job you're applying for, it can show that you’re knowledgeable even without the final credential.

B.Sc. in Civil Engineering

34 credits completed

2018 - 2019

However, if you only have basic courses or your degree isn’t relevant to the role, you might be better off skipping it altogether. There’s no need to draw attention to an unfinished degree if it won’t help you impress the hiring manager.

Need more examples? Check out our 90+ resume examples for different professions .

Do you still wonder something about education on a resume? Check out the answers to the most frequently asked questions here:

#1. How Do You Put Your Degree on a CV?

Adding your degree to your CV is pretty much the same as adding it to your resume.

List your degrees in reverse chronological order, with the most recent degree on top. Always include the essential information, such as the degree name, your major, the name of the university, and the years you attended. If relevant, you can include your GPA, thesis title, study abroad experiences, and academic honors.

#2. How Do You Write Down Your Bachelor’s Degree?

There are different ways that a bachelor's degree can be written down on your resume. Usually, there’s no need to spell out the full degree name, so there are ways you can abbreviate it for your resume. These include:

BA (Bachelor of Arts) BS (Bachelor of Science) BBA (Bachelor of Business Administration) BSN (Bachelor of Science in Nursing)

Just use the specific abbreviation that matches your degree type. (E.g.: BSc Computer Science, BA History, BBA Economics, etc. )

#3. What If I Have an Education Gap or Took Time Off from Studies?

Treat any gaps in your education the same as you would treat an employment gap . Be upfront with the hiring manager and list the start and end dates to account for the time of the gap on your resume.

Use your cover letter to briefly explain the gap without going into too much detail. Hiring managers are understanding, and reasons like health, family, or professional experience are all common to justify education gaps.

#4. How Far Back Should I Go When Listing My Education History?

Generally, you only need to list basic information about your education if you graduated a long time ago. Your work experience and more recent achievements will have a lot more weight than details about your time in college 14 years ago.

For most professionals, listing just your highest degree is more than enough. However, an academic CV for scientific or research-heavy roles might need a more comprehensive educational background.

Key Takeaways

Congratulations! You’ve made it to the end of our article!

We’re confident you’re an expert on how to list education on a resume by now, but before we part ways, let’s quickly wrap up our main points:

• Your education section belongs after your work experience section, though there are some exceptions.
• If you don’t have any work experience, recently earned a relevant degree, or if you’re applying for a research-oriented position or in academia, the education section should be listed first.
• When listing your educational entries, use a reverse chronological order. Start with the most recent degree you have and go backward from there.
• If you have some sort of higher education, there’s no need to list your high school education.
• Unless your GPA is exceptional, don’t list it. It might undermine your resume otherwise.
• There are different ways to list your education, depending on the type of school you went to and what you want to highlight. Scroll back up if you want to see some examples.

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Dive Into Expert Guides to Enhance your Resume

How to List a Degree on a Resume

When creating a resume, experience, and skills are often highlighted. However, it’s important to remember that your educational background is also essential. Specific courses of study and levels of education are required for specific jobs.

Correctly listing your educational qualifications , such as a seminar you’ve attended, or a course or certification you’ve completed, shows that you have the training and, therefore, the skills you need.

Arguably the most influential titles you can will be a diploma or degree .  

So if you’re interested in applying for a job fresh out of college should you add your degree to your resume?

It’s definitely a great option. Having a degree or diploma says something about you as a future employee – you had the determination and perseverance to complete multiple years of study.

In fact, according to the BLS, median usual weekly earnings increase based on the level of education completed, which you can see in the graph below:

That’s why it’s essential to know how to list your bachelor or master’s degree on your resume along with any other title.

Follow our tips below and examples of degrees in a resume to understand the best ways to add your qualifications and stand out when looking for some of the most in-demand jobs out there.

How to Write a Degree on a Resume

Many types of degrees exist, but the same basic format is used for each in your resume education section.

You’ll need to include the following details to display your credentials in an organized manner:

• Name of the school
• Location of the school
• Type of degree earned

You can also choose to list the year you graduated . However, depending on when you finished college, it may be better to add it or leave it out.

If you have more than 5 years of experience, you don’t need to list the year you graduated in your resume.

Remember to include the city and state when you mention the location or country if you studied abroad.

Try our  intelligent resume builder  to  ensure that these details stay organized  in your application. Nothing looks worse than a sloppy education section.

How to List Different Degrees on a Resume

You may think that having more than one college degree is automatically a positive and will look good no matter what.

It’s fantastic that you can display your advanced knowledge, but having the right plan in place for listing your degrees on a resume is critical.

To effectively add your well-deserved degrees you should:

• List your degrees in reverse chronological order
• Place your highest level of education at the top of your education section and continue from there
• Separate your double majors with an & symbol to avoid clutter

Remember to  include any noteworthy honors or distinctions  along with your  degrees , especially if they’re relevant to the position you are applying to.

Here’s an example of how to list a bachelor of science degree on a resume:

Master of Business Administration, Focus on Finance, Ivy League University, 2023

Bachelor of Science in Business Administration, Double Major: Marketing, Management, State University, 2020

• Relevant Coursework: Strategic Marketing, Operations Management, Organizational Behavior
• Achievements: Graduated Cum Laude, President of the Business Club (2019-2020)

How to Write Your Associate’s Degree on a Resume and Impress Employers

While it may take less time to get an associate’s degree is  nothing to look over , especially on a resume.

That means you’ll need to highlight your achievements,  just like on bachelor’s or master’s degrees .

Generally, you will record your associate’s degree in the format of the example below:

Associate of Applied Science in Graphic Design, Springfield Community College, 2021

• Relevant Coursework: Digital Illustration, Typography, Web Design
• Honors: Graduated with Distinction

As a general rule, you should spell out the name of the degree rather than abbreviating it. This prevents confusion on the part of the recruiter.

If you’re running out of space on your one-page resume,  you can opt to abbreviate . These are common associate’s degree abbreviations and their meanings:

• AA means Associate in Arts
• AAB means Associate of Applied Business
• AAS means Associate in Applied Science
• AAT means Associate of Arts in Teaching
• ABA means Associate of Business Administration
• AS means Associate in Science

Depending on your college, your degree may be called “Associate of” or “Associate in.” Double-check to make sure you are using the correct terminology. Also, never write “Associate’s Degree” on your resume.

It should always be listed as the proper degree name, without an apostrophe “s”.

How to List Bachelor’s Degree on a Resume

A bachelor’s degree is an undergraduate degree that takes four or more years of study. As like an associate’s degree, you will list your degree with the years you were in school, the university name, the city, and state, the type of degree, and the subject of study. Here’s an example:

Bachelor of Science in Marketing, Magna Cum Laude, University of Michigan, 2021

• Major: Marketing, Minor: Communication Studies
• Relevant Coursework: Consumer Behavior, Digital Marketing, Public Relations, Social Media Marketing

Remember to  spell out the name of your degree  rather than abbreviating it. If you need an abbreviation to save space, you can use BA for Bachelor of Arts or BS for Bachelor of Science. Additional, less common abbreviations include:

• B.A. for Bachelor of Arts
• Bach. Sci., B.Sc., S.B., B.S., BCs for Bachelor of Science
• BJHum for Bachelor of Journalism and Humanities
• BMPD for Bachelor of Media Production and Design
• BMusA for Bachelor of Musical Arts
• BPAPM for Bachelor of Public Affairs and Policy Management
• BScFS for Bachelor of Science in Forensic Science.

Before using any of these uncommon abbreviations, think seriously about whether the meaning will be clear to your hiring manager.

Again, you won’t be using an apostrophe. It’s “Bachelor of” not “Bachelor’s.” As with the high school diploma, you can also cite your GPA if it was above 3.5 and include any distinctions, such as graduating Cum Laude .

How to Include Unfinished Degrees on a Resume

What if you are currently working on your degree, but have not yet graduated?

An in-progress degree on a resume doesn’t look bad at all so go ahead and add it!

List it similarly, with your expected graduation date on your resume as the closing year.

If you list a future date, your hiring manager will understand it is your expected graduation date. Optionally, following the listing, you can place the words “Expected graduation in [year]”.

What if you worked hard in college but  did not finish your degree ?

Don’t worry! Life happens. This experience can  still be placed on your resume . You can still list your relevant classes and focus on the transferable skills you picked up while studying.

Consider this unfinished degree on resume example:

2019-2022 Austin Peay State University, Clarksville, TN Completed 48 credits toward a Bachelor of Arts in English

How to List a Master’s Degree on a Resume

Once you’ve obtained a bachelor’s degree, you might get a master’s degree. These graduate degrees usually require two additional years of study.

Always  list your master’s degree first  and your bachelor’s degree second.

Like previously discussed degrees, your master’s degree listing will include the standard format, meaning dates, the institution’s name, etc.

If you need to abbreviate, the following are common master’s degree abbreviations:

• A.M., M.A., or MA for Master of Arts
• M.B.A. or MBA for Master of Business Administration
• M.E., ME, MEng, or M.Eng. for Master of Engineering
• M.Ed. or MEd for Master of Education
• M.S., MS, M.Sc., or MSc for Master of Science
• M.S.Met. for Master of Science in Metallurgical Engineering

How to Add a Ph.D. to a Resume

If you have a Ph.D. it will look fantastic on your resume or CV , especially if you are looking for a position in the field of education.

Having a Ph.D. in a field that values it will help your application big time. 

However, if you are applying to a field that is unrelated to your Ph.D. no need to show it off that much.  But let’s say your Ph.D. is relevant to the position . Where should you place it?

Since it’s the highest distinction you can earn in education, you’ll want to place your Ph.D. at the top of your education section , and even s how it off in your summary.

Here’s how it should look when written on a resume:

Ph.D. in Computer Science, Focus on Artificial Intelligence, ABC Institute, 2019

• Dissertation: “Deep Learning Approaches to Natural Language Processing”
• Advisor: Dr. John Doe
• Research Interests: Machine Learning, Neural Networks, Sentiment Analysis
• Publications: 3 peer-reviewed articles published in leading journals
• Teaching Experience: Graduate Teaching Assistant, Introduction to Programming, Prestigious Institute (2019-2021)
• Awards: Best Paper Award, International Conference on Machine Learning (2022)

How to List a High School Diploma

If you’ve only completed high school, don’t worry; your education section can still shine! A large portion of the U.S. job market only has a high school diploma to their name.

However, there are a couple of questions you should ask yourself before including your high school diploma:

• What if you received a General Education Development Diploma or a General Education Development Certificate (GED)?
• Should you list your high school education on your resume if you have later degrees?

Firstly, a GED is the equivalent of a high school diploma , and it should be listed similarly.

Secondly, If you have just one additional degree, you can also list your high school. Remember to place the college degree first and the high school diploma second, following the reverse chronological order.

Listing your high school information is unnecessary if you have multiple graduate and undergraduate degrees.

Variations in Listing Your Degrees

Now that we’ve looked at how to list each type of degree, let’s look at  some acceptable variations .

First, you don’t always have to list all the years you attended a college in [Year-Year] style. It’s also okay to list the year you graduated.

You can also adjust the order of the listing if you want to  emphasize  what  you studied  rather than  when  you graduated.

This is especially helpful if you  completed your education many years ago . You can replace the year, school/place, and degree order with a degree, school, and year order. Here’s an example of what that might look like:

[Type of Degree] in [Subject] [University Name, City, State] [Graduation Year]

You can also do this if you’re still working on your degree. Then, it will look like this:

[Type of Degree] in [Subject] [University Name, City, State] Expected Graduation in [Year]

The important thing is that you maintain the same format throughout your resume.

In Conclusion

Having the right education can mean the difference between getting your desired job and missing out. Therefore, it is essential to master listing your degrees in your resume education section.

Whether you need to list a high school diploma, GED, associate’s degree, bachelor’s degree, master’s degree, or Ph.D., the steps are the same.

Remember to always list your education in reverse chronological order , placing the most recent achievements – and the highest degrees – first. It’s up to you to place the education section before or after the work experience section.

Your choice should depend on how much experience you have, as education is great for new applications, and if education is more pertinent to the position. 

In either case, you can use a resume template and these tips to ensure you create a stand-out application.

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Degrees on Your Resume: How to List Associate & Bachelor

As a job seeker, your resume is your first opportunity to impress potential employers. A resume is a document that summarizes your professional experience, skills, education, and achievements. It provides a comprehensive overview of your qualifications and serves as your personal marketing tool.

B. Importance of Education on Your Resume

One of the most important sections of a resume is the education section. Your educational background can help set you apart from other candidates and provide valuable information to potential employers. Listing your degrees on your resume can help demonstrate that you have the necessary qualifications for the position you are applying for.

Types of Degrees

When it comes to listing educational degrees on your resume, there are two main types to consider: Associate Degrees and Bachelor’s Degrees. Each type has its own advantages and disadvantages, so it is important to understand the differences before deciding which degree to pursue or list on your resume.

A. Associate Degrees

Definition of Associate Degree:  An Associate Degree is an undergraduate degree offered by community colleges, trade schools, and some four-year colleges. It typically takes two years of full-time study to complete and is designed to provide students with the knowledge and skills they need for entry-level jobs in a particular field.

Pros and Cons of Associate Degree:  One of the main advantages of an Associate Degree is that it is a relatively affordable way to get started on your education. It also allows you to gain practical, hands-on experience in your chosen field before committing to a longer degree program. However, the downside is that it may limit your career options and earning potential.

Examples of Associate Degrees:  Some common Associate Degrees include Associate of Arts (AA), Associate of Science (AS), and Associate of Applied Science (AAS). Programs vary widely but may include nursing, culinary arts, paralegal studies, and computer science.

Benefits of Listing Associate Degree on Your Resume:  If you have an Associate Degree, it is worth listing on your resume even if you plan to pursue further education. It can demonstrate your commitment to your chosen field and show potential employers that you have the necessary skills and knowledge to perform well in an entry-level position.

B. Bachelor’s Degrees

Definition of Bachelor’s Degree:  A Bachelor’s Degree is an undergraduate degree offered by four-year colleges and universities. It typically takes four years of full-time study to complete and is designed to provide students with a broad range of knowledge and skills in their chosen field.

Pros and Cons of Bachelor’s Degree:  One of the main advantages of a Bachelor’s Degree is that it can open up a wider range of career options and higher earning potential. It also provides a more well-rounded education and prepares students for advanced studies. However, the downside is that it can be more costly and time-consuming to earn than an Associate Degree.

Examples of Bachelor’s Degrees:  Some common Bachelor’s Degrees include Bachelor of Arts (BA), Bachelor of Science (BS), Bachelor of Fine Arts (BFA), and Bachelor of Business Administration (BBA). Programs vary widely but may include biology, psychology, literature, engineering, and more.

Benefits of Listing Bachelor’s Degree on Your Resume:  If you have a Bachelor’s Degree, it is essential to list it on your resume. It demonstrates to potential employers that you have completed an accredited program, possess the necessary skills and knowledge, and are committed to your field of study. Additionally, it can improve your chances of being considered for higher-paying jobs and promotions.

How to List Associate Degree on Your Resume

When including your associate degree on your resume, it’s important to include all relevant information that showcases your education and qualifications. Here are the key elements to include:

Begin by listing the full title of your associate degree, such as “Associate of Arts” or “Associate of Applied Science”.

B. Name of Institution

Next, list the name of the institution where you obtained your degree. This could be a community college, technical school, or other type of institution.

C. Field of Study

Include the field of study that your associate degree focused on, such as “Business Administration” or “Nursing”.

D. Graduation Date

List the month and year you graduated from your associate degree program. This helps provide a timeline of your education and career progression.

Include your GPA if it is 3.0 or higher. This shows your academic achievements and dedication to your studies.

F. Honors and Awards

If you received any honors or awards during your time in your associate degree program, list them here. This could include academic honors like Dean’s List or awards for specific achievements in your field of study.

G. Relevant Coursework

Highlight any relevant coursework you completed as part of your associate degree program. This could include classes related to your field, as well as any general education requirements that helped you develop important skills.

H. Professional Certification

If you obtained any professional certifications related to your field of study, list them along with your associate degree. This demonstrates your commitment to ongoing professional development.

I. Summary of Relevant Skills and Accomplishments

Finally, include a summary of your relevant skills and accomplishments. This could include any internships, work experience, or other achievements that demonstrate your qualifications for the positions you are applying for.

By including these key elements when listing your associate degree on your resume, you can showcase your education and qualifications in the best possible light to potential employers.

How to List Bachelor’s Degree on Your Resume

When it comes to listing your bachelor’s degree on your resume, there are several important pieces of information to include. Here’s what you need to know:

List your degree as a Bachelor of Arts (BA) or Bachelor of Science (BS), followed by the type of degree you earned. For example, Bachelor of Science in Accounting.

Include the name of the college or university where you earned your bachelor’s degree.

Indicate your major, as well as any minors, concentrations, or areas of emphasis. If you had multiple majors, list them in order of importance or relevance to the position you’re applying for.

Include the month and year you graduated from college.

If your GPA is high (3.5 or above), it’s worth including on your resume. However, if your GPA is lower, it may be better to leave it off.

List any honors, awards, or academic achievements you received while in college, such as Dean’s List, scholarships, or academic organizations.

Include any coursework that is relevant to the position you’re applying for. For example, if you’re applying for a marketing position, include relevant classes such as Marketing Strategy, Consumer Behavior, and Social Media Marketing.

If you have any professional certifications that are relevant to the position, include them on your resume as well.

Finally, include a section that summarizes your relevant skills and accomplishments. Use this section to highlight any internships, volunteer work, or extracurricular activities that demonstrate your skills and experience.

When listing your bachelor’s degree on your resume, focus on providing clear, concise, and relevant information. Keep in mind the position you’re applying for and tailor your resume accordingly. With these tips, you can showcase your education and experience in a way that impresses potential employers.

When to List Both Associate and Bachelor’s Degrees

When it comes to listing both your associate and bachelor’s degrees on your resume, there are certain scenarios in which it’s appropriate and can be beneficial. Here are some examples:

A. Examples of When to List Both Degrees

When both degrees are relevant to the position you’re applying for: If the job requires skills and knowledge that you acquired from both your associate and bachelor’s degree, it’s a good idea to list them both.

When the associate degree is in a different field than the bachelor’s degree: If you have an associate degree in a different field from your bachelor’s degree, listing both can demonstrate your versatility and breadth of knowledge.

When the associate degree is your highest level of education: If your associate degree is the highest level of education you’ve completed, but you also have a bachelor’s degree, it’s important to list both to avoid any confusion or assumptions.

B. Benefits of Listing Both Degrees

Listing both your associate and bachelor’s degree on your resume can bring several benefits, such as:

Demonstrating a wide range of skills and knowledge: Listing both degrees can showcase your ability to learn and excel in different areas.

Showing your commitment to education: Listing both degrees can demonstrate your dedication and investment in education.

Making you a more competitive candidate: Having both an associate and bachelor’s degree can make you stand out among other candidates with only one degree.

C. How to List Both Degrees on Your Resume

To properly list both your associate and bachelor’s degrees on your resume, follow these guidelines:

List your highest level of education first: If your bachelor’s degree is your highest level of education, list it first followed by your associate degree.

Use consistent formatting: Use the same format for both degrees, such as including the name of the degree, the name of the institution, and the date of graduation.

Be clear and concise: Avoid wordiness and unnecessary details when describing your degrees.

Listing both your associate and bachelor’s degrees on your resume can showcase your skills, versatility, and dedication to education, making you a more competitive candidate in the job market. Follow the guidelines above to ensure your resume accurately portrays your educational background.

Possible Challenges When Listing Degrees on Your Resume

As much as having a degree can increase your chances of landing a job, there are still some potential challenges that you may need to overcome when listing your degrees on your resume. Here are some of the most common challenges and some strategies to help you address them:

A. Incomplete Degree

If you didn’t finish your degree program, you may worry that it will be a major disadvantage when it comes to your job search. However, there are ways to position your incomplete degree so that it doesn’t hinder your application.

Firstly, you can list the years you attended school and the courses you completed. This way, potential employers can see that you have some education under your belt. Additionally, if you have any relevant coursework or experience, make sure to highlight those on your resume. Lastly, focus on the skills and knowledge you gained from your time in school that can support your application.

B. Multiple Degrees

On the surface, having multiple degrees may seem like an advantage – and in many cases, it is. However, there are situations where having multiple degrees can pose a challenge. For example, if you’re applying for a job that doesn’t require any specific degree or has a lower level of education than the degrees you have earned.

To overcome this challenge, focus on emphasizing your most relevant degree and how it relates to the job you are applying for. You can also highlight the skills and experiences you gained from your other degrees that can support your application.

A low GPA can be a major concern for many job seekers, but it’s not always a deal-breaker. While a high GPA can demonstrate your intelligence, a low GPA doesn’t necessarily mean that you are less capable or qualified.

One way to address a low GPA is to highlight other achievements and experiences that demonstrate your skills and knowledge in your field. You can also explain any extenuating circumstances that led to your low GPA, such as health issues or a difficult family situation. Finally, if you have relevant work experience, make sure to include that on your resume to demonstrate your practical skills.

D. Non-Relevant Degree

It’s not uncommon for candidates to have degrees that are seemingly unrelated to the job they are applying for. This can be challenging, as it may raise questions about your qualifications and experience in the industry.

To overcome this challenge, focus on highlighting transferable skills that you gained from your degree program, such as critical thinking, communication, and problem-solving. You can also showcase any relevant work experience or extracurricular activities that demonstrate your interest in the industry.

E. Strategies to Overcome Challenges

The key to overcoming any challenge when listing your degrees on your resume is to focus on the skills, experiences and achievements that are relevant to the job you are applying for.

Other Tips to Enhance Your Resume

In addition to properly listing your degree on your resume, there are other tips you can use to make your resume stand out to potential employers.

A. Layout and Format

The layout and format of your resume is crucial to attracting the attention of potential employers. Make sure you choose a format that is easy to read and highlights your most important information. Use bullet points, bold and italic text, and adequate spacing to make your resume visually appealing.

B. Use of Keywords

In order to get your resume noticed by automated tracking systems used by many companies, it’s important to include relevant keywords. Look at the job listing and include some of the keywords in your resume to increase your chances of being selected for an interview.

C. Relevant Work Experience and Internships

Be sure to highlight any relevant work experience or internships you have had in the field you are applying for. This shows potential employers that you have practical experience and can perform well in that industry.

D. Extracurricular Activities and Volunteer Work

Participation in extracurricular activities and volunteer work can demonstrate skills such as teamwork, leadership, and communication. Including this on your resume can make you stand out to potential employers and show your commitment to making a positive impact in your community.

E. Professional Networking

Networking is a powerful tool in your job search, and you should take advantage of all opportunities to connect with professionals in your field. Attend industry conferences, join professional organizations, and reach out to alumni from your college or university to build your network. Mentioning any professional networking activities on your resume can demonstrate that you are invested in your career and are well-connected in your industry.

By implementing these tips, you can enhance your resume and increase your chances of landing your dream job. Remember that your degree is important, but it’s only one aspect of your qualifications. Make sure your resume showcases your skills, experience, and personality to make a lasting impression on potential employers.

Dos and Don’ts in Listing Degrees on Your Resume

When it comes to listing degrees on your resume, there are a few dos and don’ts to keep in mind. Here are some tips on how to effectively list your associate and bachelor degrees:

• DO include your degree and major

Make sure to list your degree and major in a prominent place on your resume. This information should be clear and easy to read so that potential employers can quickly identify your educational background.

• DO include your school and graduation date

In addition to your degree and major, be sure to include the name of the school you attended and the date you graduated. This information can help employers verify your education and also provides context for your degree.

• DO highlight any honors or special achievements

If you graduated with honors or received any special recognition, be sure to highlight this on your resume. This can demonstrate your academic achievements and may make you a more attractive candidate to employers.

• DO tailor your education section to the job

Consider tailoring your education section to the job you’re applying for. For example, if you’re applying for a job in a specific field, you may want to emphasize relevant coursework or certifications.

B. Don’ts

• DON’T include irrelevant information

While it’s important to list your degree and major, you don’t need to include every detail of your educational history. Avoid including irrelevant coursework or degrees that don’t relate to the job you’re applying for.

• DON’T exaggerate your qualifications

Be honest about your education and qualifications. Don’t exaggerate or embellish your achievements, as this can damage your credibility as a candidate.

• DON’T overlook the importance of formatting

Make sure your education section is easy to read and well-formatted. Use bullet points and clear, concise language to make it easy for employers to scan your resume and quickly understand your educational background.

• DON’T forget about continuing education

Lastly, don’t forget to include any relevant continuing education or professional development you’ve completed. This can demonstrate your commitment to ongoing learning and may be an asset to potential employers.

Listing your degrees on your resume requires careful consideration and attention to detail. By following these dos and don’ts, you can effectively showcase your educational background and make a strong impression on potential employers.

Example of Resume with Associate Degree

A. analysis of the example.

This resume example beautifully showcases the candidate’s associate degree in Graphic Design. The layout is clean, organized and easy to navigate. The candidate smartly arranges their content in reverse chronological order by starting with their most recent work experience first.

The candidate also includes a clear summary statement which highlights their skills and experiences. They include relevant coursework under their education section which demonstrates their technical abilities. Additionally, the candidate highlights their relevant work experience and provides details of their specific contributions to each organization they worked at.

B. Tips for Improvement

While this resume is impressive, there are a few ways in which the candidate can improve it. Here are some tips:

1. Add Soft Skills

The candidate does a great job highlighting their technical skills, but it would be helpful if they also showcased their soft skills. Soft skills are just as important as technical skills in certain industries. Including skills such as teamwork, communication, and problem-solving can help the candidate stand out to recruiters.

2. Tailor the Content

While the candidate does an excellent job highlighting their relevant experiences, they should tailor their content to the specific job they are applying for. This means researching the job description and company culture and adjusting your resume to highlight any relevant experiences or skills.

3. Include Metrics

The candidate does a great job providing details of their specific contributions at each job. However, including metrics, such as percentages, revenue generated, or cost-savings, can add credibility to their accomplishments and further demonstrate their value to potential employers.

4. Use Active Language

The candidate can improve their resume by using active language in their bullet points. Using action verbs and highlighting your accomplishments can help your resume stand out and demonstrate your abilities.

5. Consider Additional Certifications

While the candidate has an impressive degree, adding additional certifications can further showcase their skills and expertise. This can include online courses, professional development workshops, or industry-specific certifications.

This resume is a great example of how to showcase an associate degree on your resume. With a few tweaks, it can become even stronger and increase the candidate’s chances of standing out to recruiters.

Example of Resume with Bachelor’s Degree

When it comes to listing your educational background on your resume, it’s important to do it in a way that is clear, concise, and effective.

The Example

Let’s take a look at an example of a resume that includes a Bachelor’s degree:

This example is well-structured and easy to read. The candidate’s name and contact information are clear and easy to find.

In the education section, the candidate lists their Bachelor’s degree in English Literature, along with the name of the university they attended and their graduation date. They also include their GPA, which can be a good indicator of academic performance.

In the experience section, the candidate clearly outlines their job responsibilities as a Marketing Assistant.

Finally, the skills section highlights the candidate’s relevant abilities without being too long or extensive.

One potential improvement could be to include some bullet points under the education section that highlight any relevant coursework or academic achievements. This can help to further emphasize the candidate’s knowledge and expertise in their field.

This example serves as a good template for how to list a Bachelor’s degree on your resume. It’s clear, concise, and effectively highlights the most important details.

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Crafting a Standout Resume: Grads With A Bachelor’s Degree

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• Affiliate Disclosure

Most col­leges don’t do a great job with job mar­ket prep. In fact, you might get through col­lege with­out ever learn­ing to write a resume. While col­leges teach a lot of impor­tant stuff, they often for­get about prac­ti­cal things like this. Writ­ing a resume is super impor­tant for get­ting a job, but many stu­dents grad­u­ate with­out know­ing how to do it. This can leave them feel­ing unpre­pared when they start look­ing for work. Col­leges need to do more to help stu­dents get ready for the real world after grad­u­a­tion. But in the mean­time, I’d like to use my place at Bachelor’s Degree Cen­ter to tell you the best tips for craft­ing an impres­sive bach­e­lor’s degree resume.

Table of Contents

• Resume Writ­ing Guide for Bach­e­lor’s Degree Holders
• Resume Tips: Basic Resume Writ­ing for Recent Graduates
• Resume Tips: High­light­ing Aca­d­e­m­ic Achieve­ments and Extracurriculars
• Resume Tips: Tai­lor­ing Resumes for Spe­cif­ic Job Applications
• Bach­e­lor’s Degree Resume Examples

As a for­mer col­lege writ­ing cen­ter direc­tor, I helped many stu­dents with their resumes. I under­stand how impor­tant resumes are for get­ting a job. Whether you’re a high school senior, a par­ent help­ing your child apply for col­lege, or a col­lege stu­dent about to grad­u­ate, know­ing how to write a good resume is cru­cial. In this guide, I’ll share tips specif­i­cal­ly for cre­at­ing a win­ning resume for bach­e­lor’s graduates.

First pub­lished in March 2024. All data was accu­rate at time of publication.

Resume Writing Guide for Bachelor’s Degree Holders

When I was a writ­ing cen­ter direc­tor, the tough­est part for new grad­u­ates when writ­ing their resumes was not hav­ing job expe­ri­ence. This made them unsure about how to show their qual­i­fi­ca­tions well. But, what I liked most was help­ing them see how their aca­d­e­m­ic achieve­ments, activ­i­ties out­side of class, and skills they could use in dif­fer­ent jobs were valu­able. By high­light­ing these things in their resumes, they could prove they were ready for work even if they had­n’t had many jobs yet.

One thing I often sug­gest­ed was talk­ing about class­es they took that relat­ed to the jobs they want­ed. I also told them to men­tion any intern­ships, vol­un­teer work, or part-time jobs they had that gave them use­ful skills. Even being part of clubs or lead­ing activ­i­ties on cam­pus could show they were good at work­ing with oth­ers and tak­ing on responsibilities.

I also told them to include num­bers when they could to show what they achieved. This could be things like their grades, rank­ings in class, or results from projects or vol­un­teer work. Adding num­bers made their achieve­ments more impres­sive and eas­i­er for employ­ers to remember.

Over­all, even though not hav­ing much job expe­ri­ence might seem hard, with the right help and think­ing dif­fer­ent­ly about their skills, new grad­u­ates could make resumes that showed they were a good fit for the jobs they wanted.

Relat­ed Resource:

Col­lege Intern­ships: The Impor­tance of Real-World Experience

Bachelor’s Degree Net­work­ing: The Impor­tance of Build­ing Career Connections

Resume Tips: Basic Resume Writing for Recent Graduates

When it comes to writ­ing a resume, there are some things that are true no mat­ter what kind of resume you’re writ­ing. Your resume should be easy to read and under­stand quick­ly. Make sure to include only rel­e­vant infor­ma­tion that relates to the job you want. Check every­thing for mis­takes before you send it out. 

If you fol­low these rules, you’ll have a good resume that gets noticed by employers. 

• Keep it Short : Try to make your resume fit on one page. This makes it clear and rel­e­vant. Focus on the most impor­tant stuff to get the recruiter’s attention.
• Sim­ple Lay­out : Choose a neat, pro­fes­sion­al design with clear head­ings and bul­let points. Employ­ers like well-orga­nized resumes that look professional.
• Show Rel­e­vant Expe­ri­ence : Talk about expe­ri­ences that relate direct­ly to the job. This could be intern­ships, part-time jobs, vol­un­teer­ing, or impor­tant projects from your class­es. High­light what you achieved to show off your skills and what you can bring to the job.
• High­light Trans­fer­able Skills : Talk about skills you’ve gained through school, activ­i­ties, and any jobs you’ve had. These skills, like com­mu­ni­ca­tion, team­work, lead­er­ship, prob­lem-solv­ing, and time man­age­ment, are real­ly impor­tant to employers.
• Check for Mis­takes : Go through your resume care­ful­ly to catch any spelling or gram­mar errors. It’s also help­ful to get feed­back from men­tors or career advi­sors to make your resume even better.

Resume Tips: Highlighting Academic Achievements and Extracurriculars

Craft­ing an impres­sive bach­e­lor’s degree resume is dif­fer­ent from reg­u­lar resumes, too. For recent grad­u­ates, it’s about show­ing what you’ve learned in school and any oth­er activ­i­ties you’ve been involved in. You might not have much work expe­ri­ence yet, so you have to high­light oth­er things like intern­ships or projects you worked on. It’s impor­tant to focus on the skills you’ve gained, like prob­lem-solv­ing and com­mu­ni­ca­tion, and show how they relate to the job you’re apply­ing for. 

Here are some of the things you should keep in mind when it comes to writ­ing a resume as a new graduate. 

• Edu­ca­tion Sec­tion : Put your aca­d­e­m­ic achieve­ments first. Include your degree, major, uni­ver­si­ty, grad­u­a­tion date, and any awards you got. This part shows what you’ve studied.
• Rel­e­vant Course­work : Cus­tomize your resume by talk­ing about class­es that relate to the job you want. This is espe­cial­ly impor­tant if you don’t have much work expe­ri­ence yet. It shows you’re ready for the job.
• Extracur­ric­u­lar Activ­i­ties : Talk about any clubs you were in, lead­er­ship roles you had, vol­un­teer work you did, or hob­bies you’re pas­sion­ate about. These things show what you’re like out­side of class.
• Projects and Research : High­light any big projects, research papers, or pre­sen­ta­tions you worked on. This shows you’re curi­ous, good at think­ing crit­i­cal­ly, and can solve problems.

Resume Tips: Tailoring Resumes for Specific Job Applications

One thing about resume writ­ing that a lot of peo­ple for­get is that you can’t just send the same resume to every job. Every job is look­ing for some­thing a lit­tle dif­fer­ent. Tai­lor­ing your resume to each job you apply for is cru­cial. This means adjust­ing your resume to high­light the skills and expe­ri­ences that are most rel­e­vant to the spe­cif­ic job and com­pa­ny you’re apply­ing to. 

By cus­tomiz­ing your resume for each appli­ca­tion, you show employ­ers that you’ve tak­en the time to under­stand their needs and that you’re gen­uine­ly inter­est­ed in the posi­tion. It also increas­es your chances of mak­ing a pos­i­tive impres­sion and land­ing an inter­view. So, take the time to per­son­al­ize your resume for each job opportunity—it could make all the dif­fer­ence in your job search success.

• Research and Cus­tomize : Before you write your resume, learn about the job and the com­pa­ny. This helps you make your resume fit the job bet­ter. Under­stand­ing what the employ­er wants lets you per­son­al­ize your resume to stand out.
• Use Key­words : When you write your resume, use words from the job descrip­tion. This helps your resume get noticed by com­put­er sys­tems many com­pa­nies use. Using the right words makes it eas­i­er for recruiters to find your resume and see you’re a good match.
• Tell Them What You Want : Write a short state­ment about your goals. Make sure it match­es what the com­pa­ny wants. This shows you’re real­ly inter­est­ed in the job and starts your appli­ca­tion off on a good note.

Bachelor’s Degree Resume Examples

If you’re not sure what to do with your resume, it helps to look at some exam­ples. Here’s a resume for a recent com­put­er sci­ence graduate: 

Jane Smith 456 Oak Avenue, Tech City, USA | (555) 987‑6543 | [email protected] Objec­tive: Recent col­lege grad­u­ate with a Bach­e­lor’s degree in Com­put­er Sci­ence seek­ing an entry-lev­el posi­tion in soft­ware devel­op­ment. Eager to apply aca­d­e­m­ic knowl­edge and gain prac­ti­cal expe­ri­ence in a dynam­ic tech environment. Edu­ca­tion: Bach­e­lor of Sci­ence in Com­put­er Science Tech Uni­ver­si­ty, Tech City, USA Grad­u­at­ed : May 2024 Rel­e­vant Coursework: Intro­duc­tion to Programming Data Struc­tures and Algorithms Web Devel­op­ment Data­base Man­age­ment Systems Expe­ri­ence: Soft­ware Devel­op­ment Intern | Tech Solu­tions, Tech City, USA | Sum­mer 2023 Con­tributed to the devel­op­ment of web appli­ca­tions using HTML, CSS, and JavaScript Assist­ed in debug­ging and test­ing soft­ware solutions Col­lab­o­rat­ed with team mem­bers on var­i­ous cod­ing projects Tech­ni­cal Sup­port Assis­tant | Tech Sup­port Ser­vices, Tech City, USA | Part-time dur­ing college Pro­vid­ed tech­ni­cal assis­tance to cus­tomers via phone and email Resolved soft­ware and hard­ware issues effi­cient­ly and effectively Doc­u­ment­ed trou­bleshoot­ing pro­ce­dures for future reference Skills: Pro­fi­cient in pro­gram­ming lan­guages: Java, Python, HTML, CSS, JavaScript Famil­iar­i­ty with data­base man­age­ment sys­tems (SQL) Strong prob­lem-solv­ing and ana­lyt­i­cal skills Excel­lent com­mu­ni­ca­tion and team­work abilities Detail-ori­ent­ed and high­ly organized Extracur­ric­u­lar Activities: Mem­ber, Asso­ci­a­tion for Com­put­ing Machin­ery (ACM) Vol­un­teer, Girls Who Code men­tor­ship program Ref­er­ences: Avail­able upon request

I’ve helped many stu­dents improve their resumes. I know how impor­tant resumes are for your career. By fol­low­ing the tips in this guide, you can stand out to employ­ers. Show off your achieve­ments, tai­lor your resume to each job, and make sure it reflects who you are. Your resume is your chance to shine, so put in the effort to make it great.

On your resume, list your degree under an “Edu­ca­tion” sec­tion. You can write it out in a full for­mat like “Bach­e­lor of Arts in Eng­lish Lit­er­a­ture” or use abbre­vi­a­tions like “B.A. in Eng­lish.”  If you’re tight on space, using abbre­vi­a­tions is okay, but make sure your resume for­mat­ting is consistent!

Since you’re a recent grad, focus on show­cas­ing your aca­d­e­m­ic achieve­ments. List your degree, rel­e­vant course­work (espe­cial­ly if it relates to the job you’re apply­ing for), and any aca­d­e­m­ic hon­ors you received.  Don’t for­get about vol­un­teer work, intern­ships, or research projects you par­tic­i­pat­ed in dur­ing col­lege. These expe­ri­ences can high­light valu­able skills like team­work, com­mu­ni­ca­tion, and time management.

Gen­er­al­ly, you can skip list­ing your asso­ci­ate’s degree if your bach­e­lor’s degree is in a sim­i­lar field.  How­ev­er, if your asso­ci­ate’s degree is in a rel­e­vant area that your bach­e­lor’s degree does­n’t cov­er, it might be worth men­tion­ing. For instance, if you have a Bach­e­lor of Arts in His­to­ry but also have an Asso­ci­ate’s Degree in Para­le­gal Stud­ies and are apply­ing for a legal assis­tant job, includ­ing the asso­ci­ate’s degree could be beneficial.

Almost always include your bach­e­lor’s degree on your resume! It’s a sig­nif­i­cant accom­plish­ment and shows employ­ers you have the edu­ca­tion­al foun­da­tion for the job. It also demon­strates your com­mit­ment to high­er learn­ing and per­se­ver­ance. There are a few rare instances where you might con­sid­er leav­ing your bach­e­lor’s degree off your resume, but it’s gen­er­al­ly rec­om­mend­ed to include it. Here are some excep­tions to con­sid­er: • Dif­fer­ent Degree Need­ed: Apply­ing for an elec­tri­cian job with an Eng­lish degree? List your elec­tri­cian skills instead of your Eng­lish degree. • Out­dat­ed Degree: Your com­put­er sci­ence degree is from the 1980s? It might not be as help­ful. You can still men­tion it if the skills are use­ful (like prob­lem-solv­ing). • Lots of Expe­ri­ence: If your resume is burst­ing with rel­e­vant work expe­ri­ence for the job, you could skip the bach­e­lor’s degree to save space. Usu­al­ly, include your degree! It shows you have a good edu­ca­tion and are a hard work­er. Only skip it in rare cas­es. You can always change your resume for each job you apply for.

Skip “fresh grad­u­ate” on your resume. Instead, use phras­es like “Recent Grad­u­ate” or “Bach­e­lor of Sci­ence in Com­put­er Sci­ence — May 2024” (or your grad­u­a­tion date): • New grad­u­ate • Entry-lev­el pro­fes­sion­al • Junior pro­fes­sion­al You can also get cre­ative and high­light your skills and expe­ri­ences. For exam­ple, if you did a senior project in web devel­op­ment, men­tion it! This way, you’re show­cas­ing your abil­i­ties while still acknowl­edg­ing you’re a recent grad.

• Career Development

How to List Education in Progress on Your Resume (+ Examples)

10 min read

Are you unsure about how to list your in-progress education on your resume? Many people are, including current students, students taking online classes, and people taking a break from their degree programs.

Is it acceptable to include unfinished degrees on a resume?

ZipJob’s career experts agree that education in progress should usually be included on a resume. A degree in progress is still important to employers, as well as a degree that was started and holds relevance to a position. However, it needs to be included in an honest way so it’s an accurate reflection of your learning and accomplishments.

If you’re currently pursuing a degree, here is how you can list education in progress on your resume – plus some examples for you to use as templates on your own resume.

Key Takeaway

KEY TAKEAWAY: Are you working on a degree and want to tell prospective employers about your efforts? These tips can help you to list your in-progress education on your resume.

How to list education in progress on a resume

There are two things you need to learn if you want to know how to list education in progress on your resume. The first is how to provide that information in a way that clearly conveys your education status to an employer. The second is where to place that information in the body of your resume. With respect to the how, there are a few different ways to convey these details. There are only a couple of basic rules to follow when you list these education details:

Be as clear as possible. You don’t want to give the employer the wrong impression, after all. If you have completed one degree and are pursuing advanced education, be sure to clearly state that fact. If your degree is not yet complete, be clear about that as well.

Be honest. If you are in the process of withdrawing from school, don’t list that educational program. Don’t try to enhance your education section in any way. Just state the facts in an honest way.

Feel free to include in-progress university degrees , as well as online degrees that you may be pursuing. Both are popular in 2023/2024.

Resume degree in progress examples

When you include details indicating that you’re currently pursuing a degree on your resume, it’s important to provide clarity. The last thing you want is to inadvertently leave the impression that you’re trying to pretend like you’ve completed the degree. And while it might be tempting to just note that the degree is still a work-in-progress, we believe that you should be even more specific. The best way to do that is to include the anticipated graduation date.

Now, if you’re like many students, you may not be entirely sure that you’ll complete your degree by a set date. However, that shouldn’t stop you from providing an anticipated date of completion. In fact, it’s essential that you provide this information so that employers know that you’re serious about your studies. This is especially true in cases where the job you’re seeking requires that degree. Fortunately, it’s a relatively easy task to accomplish.

We wrote a good post here on how to include an MBA on a resume.

For example, check out this listing from a sample resume with a master’s degree in progress:

Master of Business Administration (MBA), Human Resources Program

Dynamic University, Anytown, AnyState. Expected completion 2025

If you’re closer to graduation and are more certain about the date, you can use something like this:

Graduate Studies, Computer Engineering

XYZ University, MyCity, MyState, Graduation Date: Spring, 2024

What if I don't expect to finish the degree?

If you are taking a break from your education (or a permanent hiatus) you need to consider whether or not the coursework you did complete is relevant. Ask yourself:

Is this degree related to the job I'm applying for?

Is this degree more relevant to the job than my other relevant experience including jobs, volunteer work, or certifications?

Is this in-progress degree recent enough? (Can I still remember what I learned? Has a lot changed in the industry since I learned it?)

Is having a degree required for this job?

While you should never lie about having a degree you don't have, including any progress made toward a required degree may help you reach the interview stage. The trick is you have to be qualified for the job in every other aspect. If you don't have an MBA, but you do have 10+ years in the business field, you may still have a shot at landing the interview.

To accurately represent this on your resume, don't include a prospective graduation date. Instead, try including the number of credits and the years you attended.

University of California, Riverside (2019 to 2021) | Riverside, CA

36 units toward a Bachelor of Arts in Media and Cultural Studies

EXPERT TIP: View 200+ more professional resume samples for all industries, along with a guide to writing resumes from our career experts.

Should I include other information about my degree?

You may want to consider whether you should list relevant coursework and major projects on your resume. In general, work experience is more compelling than education, but either way, adding classes that you’ve taken or capstone-type projects can elevate your resume with more relevant keywords.

Relevant coursework

Adding relevant coursework to the education section of your resume can be a great idea, especially if you lack the professional experience needed to set you apart from other job seekers. The great thing about adding coursework is that you can include it whether you’ve finished your degree or not. Here’s what it would look like:

Bachelor of Arts in Media and Cultural Studies | University of Chicago (GPA: 3.89) 

Relevant Coursework: Media Technology, Games Culture, Intercultural Communication, Web Design, Advanced Video Production, Multimedia Performance, and Strategic Social Media

Adding coursework isn’t a place to dump every class you took pursuing your degree. Rather, it’s a place to inject relevant keywords into your resume. So, if the job description calls for someone with experience in video production and you haven’t had a job that allowed you access to that but you did take a class in college, then you can add it to your Education section. 

Related read: Relevant Coursework on a Resume: Good or Bad?

Capstone or other major projects

Similar to adding coursework, you can talk about projects you’ve worked on. Remember that relevancy is critical. You should always be thinking about how your experience and education relate to what the prospective employer is looking for in a new hire. If you need to add something else on your resume that helps you demonstrate skills or knowledge, a project from school can be just the ticket. Write the project details in your Education section in the same way you’d write a job role – meaning, use bullet points to call attention to things you achieved as you worked on the project. Here’s what that looks like:

Notable project: Project title

Describe the project and goals along with how many team members were involved

Talk about what you did – your role – to achieve the project goals

Mention the skills you gained – “Honed skills in [skill 1], [skill 2], and [skill 3]

If you won an award or earned some recognition for a project well done, write about it

Where to place education in progress on your resume

The second issue you need to address is placement. Where should you place these details when you’re trying to figure out how to list education in progress on a resume? There are two main possibilities, depending upon whether the degree is needed for the job you’re seeking.

If the job requirements include the degree that you’re pursuing, then you should try to emphasize that information in your resume. Position it near the beginning of your resume, after the summary section. That way, the employer will see that you’re close to completing that requirement before he or she delves any further into the document. This placement helps showcase your interest and suitability right away.

On the other hand, you should place this detail later in the resume if the degree isn’t needed for the position. In that instance, you can put your work history and skills higher up in the resume and leave your education for the end.

Tie it all together in your cover letter

Don’t forget about the power of your cover letter . Since your cover letter is meant to complement your resume, a degree in progress could give you another opportunity to sell the point that you are qualified for the role. Talking about education in progress or unfinished education in your cover letter can also allow you to explain any gaps on your resume that are related to pursuing education. 

Gaps can happen if you decide to go to school, and then change your mind. If you didn’t work while you were in school, then you’ll have a gap. It’s not something to fret about, gaps happen all the time. You just have to be ready to explain why it exists and being able to tell a story about how you were actively working to improve your qualifications and skills can go a long way in showing future employers your dedication to continuous improvement. 

As always, whether you bring up unfinished education in your cover letter depends on whether it’s relevant to the job you’re applying to. If it doesn’t add value to your job application, then leave it off. 

Here are some example statements you can use when mentioning a resume degree in progress on your cover letter:

I am currently pursuing a degree in [field or industry] to enhance my skills in [skill 1], [skill 2], and [skill 3].

While my education journey is still ongoing, I’m excited to apply the knowledge I’ve gained to the [position name] role.

I am actively working toward completing my [degree name] to meet the educational requirements for this position.

A final note: grade point average

We should also address another common question that we encounter: do you need to include your grade point average ? There are different schools of thought on this, so it’s really up to you. As a rule, however, most experts agree that it’s generally unwise to include anything less than the best GPAs. That typically means leaving it out unless it’s at least 3.5. In most instances, however, you won’t need to include that detail unless the job description requires a certain grade point average or you’re seeking a job at a major firm.

For your resume, a degree in progress is one more tool for success!

As you can see, it is not difficult to enhance your resume with a degree in progress. Yes, you need to know the right format to use, and where to list that information. Still, it is a relatively simple thing to handle if you stick to the basic principles we’ve outlined here. So, be sure to include those educational details, to showcase your developing skills and help you stand out from the crowd!

Recommended reading:

7 Free Certifications To Enhance Your Resume

How to List Online Courses on a Resume (Examples and Tips)

200+ Resume Examples for Every Job & Industry

Marsha Hebert, Professional Resume Writer

Marsha is a resume writer with a strong background in marketing and writing. After completing a Business Marketing degree, she discovered that she could combine her passion for writing with a natural talent for marketing. For more than 10 years, Marsha has helped companies and individuals market themselves. Read more advice from Marsha on ZipJob's blog .

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Properly Write Your Degree

The correct way to communicate your degree to employers and others is by using the following formats:

Degree - This is the academic degree you are receiving. Your major is in addition to the degree; it can be added to the phrase or written separately.  Include the full name of your degree, major(s), minor(s), emphases, and certificates on your resume.

Double Majors - You will not be receiving two bachelor's degrees if you double major. Your primary major determines the degree (Bachelor of Arts or Bachelor of Science). If you're not fully sure which of your majors is primary, check CheckMarq or call the registrar's office.

Example: Primary Major: Psychology ; Secondary Major: Marketing

• Bachelor of Arts Degree in Psychology & Marketing

Primary Major: Marketing ; Secondary Major: Psychology

• Bachelor of Science Degree in Marketing & Psychology

In a letter, you may shorten your degree by writing it this way:

• In May 20XX, I will graduate with my Bachelor's degree in International Affairs.
• In December 20XX, I will graduate with my Master's degree in Counseling Education.

Not sure which degree you are graduating with? Here is a list of Undergraduate Majors and corresponding degrees:

• College of Arts & Sciences
• College of Business Administration
• College of Communication
• College of Education
• College of Engineering
• College of Health Sciences
• College of Nursing  

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How to write an MBA resume and make sure it stands out in the stack

Applying to business school, or an MBA program, can be nerve-racking. You’ll need to lasso together transcripts and test scores, fill out an application, and likely ace an interview—but perhaps the most critical piece of it all is an MBA resume. This important document will list out many of the same elements as a traditional resume, such as your educational background and work experience. 

But an MBA resume also has a different primary function than the typical resume you might submit to try and land a job: It’s designed to land you a spot in an MBA program. If writing an MBA resume feels intimidating, knowing what to put on it, and some other framing tactics, may help calm your nerves.

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Mba resume vs. a job resume  .

As noted, an MBA resume should feel familiar to many prospective business school students. 

“An MBA resume is very similar to a job resume,” says Kaneisha Grayson, the founder and CEO of The Art of Applying , an MBA admissions consultancy. She adds that both types of resumes will, or should, comprise a single page, incorporate clear, professional formatting, and lay out an applicant’s educational and career accomplishments. 

“I’d say one difference between the two is that I advise our clients to put their education at the top—whereas with a job resume, you’d see education at the bottom,” Grayson says. She recommends this variation because an MBA resume’s specific aim of landing an applicant at an educational institution. 

So, in that sense, there may not be a whole lot of differences between an MBA resume and a job resume, but there will be some additional focus on specific aspects of your background, all in an effort to win over an MBA program’s selection or admissions committee. 

How to write an MBA resume

Again, writing an MBA resume shouldn’t differ a whole lot from writing a traditional resume, but you’ll want to try and keep your end goal in mind, which is landing a spot in an MBA program. As you write your MBA resume, keeping that goal in mind should prove helpful, because it can help you parse out the information you’ll want to include, and the things you won’t.

“An MBA resume is very specialized toward the application cycle,” says Ellin Lolis, President and Founder of Ellin Lolis MBA Consulting . So, again, keep the end goal in mind. “Your education section is going to be important,” Lolis says, “but we mostly want to see your career focus.”

As for the nuts and bolts of writing an MBA resume? Keep it simple by deciding what to rope in, what to leave out, and how to structure it all so that it’s easy to read. 

What to include in your MBA resume

The main elements that your MBA resume should include are an education section, a job experience or professional experience section, and a portion that details a bit more about you, personally, such as your hobbies and interests. 

You can leave out photographs, information related to your high school, and even most of your contact information—that’ll be included on your program application, the experts say. 

Again, do your best to keep what you include to one page. The only time you could probably get a pass for using more than one page is if you have extensive professional experience, and are applying to an executive MBA program. A good rule of thumb? “When you have more than seven years of full-time, post-college work experience,” says Grayson. 

How to structure an MBA resume

As for structuring an MBA resume, do your best to contain most elements to the aforementioned sections: Education, professional background and experience, and a section dedicated to your personal hobbies, interests, skills and certifications, and community service work.

List the schools you attended and the degrees you earned, perhaps with any relevant coursework and GPAs in the education section. Your professional section may differ depending on your specific experiences and industries you’ve worked in, but try to frame it as a sort of professional “story,” which can showcase how an MBA can help you take the next step.

Professional background

“Generally speaking, the MBA is not a purely academic degree, as a majority of people are going to earn one to get a better job,” says Lolis. “They’re doing it to boost their career—and at that point, the most relevant thing is your recent job and your professional track record,” she says.

Get into the weeds, too, about your accomplishments. “Don’t just reiterate your job responsibilities,” says Grayson. “Communicate the results of your efforts. Quantifying the results is much more significant and meaningful—describe the impact,” she says.

Hobbies, interests, and more

As for the more personal portion? “One of the main things that’s different from a job resume is that they want you to share some of your hobbies and interests,” Lolis says. “Be very specific,” adds Grayson, “because 90% of people will list ‘travel’ as a hobby. “But that’s not interesting—maybe something like ‘slow traveling to find the best street food.’ That’s interesting.” This, she says, can help spark a conversation, or help your resume stand out from the pile.

In addition to specific hobbies or interests, you might include, add volunteer or community work as well, and perhaps relevant technical or language skills. Again, this may help tip the scales in your favor by showing you have specific know-how related to a given industry or task. Any applicable awards you’ve earned may be good to include, too, as they showcase that you’re capable of excelling in a given area.

Should you customize your resume for each business school?

Experts generally don’t recommend changing up your MBA resume when applying to different schools. Instead, look for specific instructions relayed by the school, if there are any, and make any needed changes accordingly. So, unless you have a really compelling reason, you can probably use the same resume for a number of applications.

Also, don’t go overboard in terms of design to make your resume stand out. “Just stick to traditional formatting,” says Lolis, since that’s what most admissions teams are used to seeing, and are generally looking for. Let the contents of the resume speak for you—not the design.

Where to go if you need help  

For many prospective MBA students, piecing together a resume shouldn’t be terribly difficult, given that it’s mostly the same process as writing a traditional resume. However, if you need help, you can reach out to consultants, or even check out some of the resources schools make available to help you along the process. 

• Consultants : There are many MBA consultancies out there, including the firms that Lolis and Grayson founded. They can help create, review, and critique an MBA resume and get it into shape. 
• Examples and templates : Some schools even make templates available , and example resumes to help students create their own. 

The takeaway  

In all, you should write an MBA resume in the same way you’d write a traditional resume, with some slight variations. The resume should focus on your professional background and previous education, while also detailing some of your personal interests, too. Stick to classic resume formatting as well, and keep it to one page, if possible.

It’s also important, experts say, to use some basic formatting and style—use 11 or 12-point font, a normal font style (Arial, Times New Roman, etc.), and overall, keep it professional. And remember: don’t go overboard trying to score style points with the resume’s design or other elements.

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How to Use bachelor's degree in a Sentence

Bachelor's degree.

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