what to write in the education section of a resume

How to List Education on a Resume in 2022 (With Examples & Tips)

Not sure what degree to list? If you should include a GPA? It just so happens that there's a variety of ways to effectively list your eduction.

The education section of a resume may not always be the star of the document but knowing how to properly list your education can be essential for advancing into the next phase of the hiring process.

In this guide, we will cover all the ins and outs of crafting an education section for your resume. 

We'll cover the following:

• What to Include in an Education Section?

Tips for Listing Degrees (College, High-School, GED)

Listing incomplete education.

• Where to Include Education on a Resume?

What Employers Look for in an Education Section

Beautiful resume templates to land your dream job.

What to Include in an Education Section

As we've covered, different formats of resumes may require different information to be included within an education section.

In general, there is some basic information that should be included within the education section of a resume:

• The name of the school — "e.g. Georgia Institute of Technology"
• The location of the school
• Your degree ( high-school diploma, GED, associate’s degree, bachelor’s degree, etc. )
• Graduation year ( if applicable )
• Major field or department of study (if applicable )
• Minor field or department of study (if applicable and relevant )
• GPA ( If you're a student or graduates who held lower GPAs, this bit of information may be good to omit unless specifically requested by the employer )

Here's what that looks like for and university grad:

Georgia Institute of Technology • Atlanta, GA B.S. in Computer Engineering, 2006 - 2010 GPA: 3.9/4.0

For high-school students, you can do something like the following:

Georgia Institute of Technology • Atlanta, GA High School Diploma, Graduated in 2010 GPA: 3.9/4.0

Remember, including a GPA  is optional. Only add it if it's required by the job listing or it's relatively high. If your GPA is low (under 3.5), it's better to just leave it out.

Listing Education with Limited Work Experience

In resumes that have limited or no work experience , as may be the case with college students or recent graduates, the education section may be a good opportunity to show off educational achievements instead.

Additional information that can be included in longer education sections can include:

• Internships completed as part of a curriculum 
• Academic awards or sponsorships
• Relevant coursework
• Academic assistantships with professors or other academic professionals

As covered, in documents such as CVs the education section could be fairly lengthy.

However, the education section for most resumes will be one of the shortest sections.

This is mostly because standard resumes will be used for entry-level or mid-level positions, while longer-form resumes like the CV will only come into play for more prestigious or hard to obtain positions. 

It is much more important to show either a robust work history or detail relevant and transferable skills, using your education as support rather than the main point of interest. 

Here are some quick tips for deciding what educational information to include in a resume:

1) When including professional hobbies and extra curricular activities, it is important to keep relevance in mind

Incorrect: Do not include information about sports clubs or other clubs that cannot be connected back to your qualifications for a job.

Correct: If you held leadership positions in clubs or other extra-curricular activities, this can be useful information to include to highlight non-paid leadership or management experience.

Keep your descriptions simple and concise

Incorrect: Including long-winded and wordy paragraphs explaining the relevance of a certain piece of information. If a piece of information is relevant, it should be easily explained in one, simple sentence.

Correct: Use bullet points to separate bits of information to keep your resume easy to read or skim.

The readability of a resume can be the defining factor of whether or not a job recruiter or potential employer moves the candidate into the next phase of the hiring process.

As such, using clear and concise wording and formatting is essential for not just the education section, but for all sections. 

Here are a few tips for different formatting options depending on the level and type of education you have completed.

1) Adding High School and GED on Resume

• If your highest level of education is a high school diploma or a GED, this should still be included as there are many jobs that are open to high school graduates as well as college graduates.
• Generally, this type of education section should be kept short and sweet. Listing that you have received either a diploma or a GED should be sufficient.
• If you have recently graduated high school or received your GED, including additional high school-related achievements may be beneficial (such as leadership positions, honor roll awards, athletics, etc.)

2) Adding Associate’s and Bachelor’s Degrees on Resume

• When listing an associate’s or bachelor’s degree on a resume, always include the name and location of the institution, as well as the date or expected date of graduation.
• While the education section should still be kept short, inclusion of any collegiate level academic achievements, such as honor societies or dean’s lists, can be useful to include.
• Don’t go too crazy including coursework of extracurricular information – stick to including the most relevant information. 

3) Adding Graduate School or Doctoral Programs on Resume

• Graduate and doctoral students may feel inclined to always include this information; however, it is important to be wary of including too much academic information in scenarios where it may render you overqualified for the position.
• Graduate and doctoral information is more likely to come into play for candidates seeking higher level positions at the management level. 
• For candidates seeking jobs in academic or scientific fields, a CV-style resume and longer-form education section providing higher level of details regarding graduate or doctoral programs may be necessary.

4) Adding Certifications on Resume

• In some cases, a candidate may not have attended college but may have completed a trade school or other program that resulted in various certifications. These certifications should be included when relevant.
• Certifications such as CPR or First Aid can be useful to include in most resumes, although they should perhaps be saved for a separate certifications section .

5) Listing Incomplete Education on Resume

Incomplete education can be tricky to include in a way that sounds positive — as such, if you have incomplete education, be wary of your wording and avoid words such as “incomplete” or “unfinished.” Instead try to do the following:

• Include relevant coursework or credits earned during your duration of education before the point of departure from the institution.
• Omit any wordy or lengthy explanations of why the education is incomplete. 

However, we've seen this be a common problem that many candidates have. Continue reading below to see how to effectively list education that is left incomplete. ‍

In some cases, a job applicant may have a partially-complete or incomplete educational credential they want to list on their resume.

Incomplete education can result from a variety of circumstances, including:

• A person who is still in the process of earning their diploma, GED, or degree, but has not yet earned the credential or graduated.
• A person who started a degree and completed relevant coursework, but ultimately did not finish the degree program.
• A person who chose a different career path than what they studied for, but still has relevant coursework for the new career path.

When listing incomplete education on a resume, it is important to stay highly mindful of how you are wording your limited educational credentials — as words such as “ unfinished ” or “ incomplete ” are not ideal to include within a resume. 

Here are some quick examples on how to properly list incomplete education in the education section of a resume:

For applicants who are in the process of completing a degree, it is important to note the expected timeframe of completion.

Incorrect: ‍ B.S. in Communications University of North Carolina, Chapel Hill, NC Not yet complete

Correct: B.S. in Communications University of North Carolina, Chapel Hill, NC Expected graduation May 2021

For applicants who began a degree, but ultimately did not complete the degree, it is key to be mindful of how you frame the education you did receive. 

Incorrect: University of North Carolina Chapel Hill, NC

Why is this incorrect? Sure, this example indicates you, at some point, attended a university.

However, it provides no insight as to what relevant coursework or studies you may have completed.

Here's the correct way to describe your educational experience instead:

Correct: University of North Carolina Chapel Hill, NC Completed 20 credits towards a BS in Communications

Alternatively: This could be a good opportunity to include a bulleted list of relevant coursework.

For applicants who did not complete high school, it is important to note if you either earned a GED or are in the process of earning a GED.

Incorrect: ‍ Watauga County High School Boone, NC Incomplete

Correct: General Educational Development Diploma Earned May 2021 — OR — Expected to earn May 2021

Generally speaking, the majority of jobs will require applicants to have earned at minimum a GED certification in order to qualify.

In some cases, an applicant may lack a degree but may be certified by a trade school.

For instance, a beautician would want to include any beauty and health related certifications or licenses earned under the education section. 

Take a look at this resume example of a college student below to see how to do this.

Where to Include Education on a Resume

When it comes to placing your educational credentials on a resume, there are many considerations to make.

Resumes can serve a variety of purposes and, as a general rule of thumb, should be tailored for specific jobs . 

It is also important to take into consideration the level of education you have completed, as this will impact how it should be presented as well.

For instance, a job applicant seeking a position in academia would have a much heavier emphasis on education and academic-related achievements — than someone seeking a job in a corporate environment.

Ultimately, not all resumes are the same, so the placement of the education section will differ depending on the type of resume being used and the intention behind its structuring. 

Choosing the right resume format

There are several different types of resume formats to choose from, but the main ones that are used are as follows:

1) Reverse-Chronological

‍ Emphasis is placed on the most relevant work experience, listing jobs from most recent to oldest. Education can be placed before or after the work experience section. However higher degrees that qualify a candidate for the position may be beneficial to mention sooner rather than later. 

2) Functional

‍ Functional resumes place a much heavier emphasis on skillsets and areas of expertise. This format of resume is typically used by job applicants lacking the relevant work experience or educational credentials. In this format, the education section may lead if the applicant has educational credentials but limited work experience but should follow after the skills section if education is limited. 

‍ Hybrid resumes combine the reverse-chronological work experience ordering with the emphasizing of skills. This can help to supplement resumes of applicants who may have some relevant work experience but still need to beef up their resumes with a skills section . The placement of the education section will depend on how applicable or high level the credentials are and should generally be kept brief. 

4) Curriculum Vitae (CV)

‍ CVs are a type of long-form and multi-page resume used most commonly by applicants seeking positions in either academic or scientific fields. In a CV, the education section will be a prominent component and should appear early in the document. This type of education section should include all credentials, published works, projects, awards, or other academic achievements — no details should be spared. 

The below example of a Physician Assistant's resume is listing education in the bottom-right corner as it's using a reverse-chronological resume format to shine on it's work history.

Employers can gather a variety of information about a job candidate from an education section, including:

• A job applicant’s work ethic, reflected through GPAs or other grade-related information
• Relevant skills or training an applicant has received through their schooling
• Name recognition of specific universities, such as ivy leagues, that may give a candidate a leg up on the competition
• Insight into a candidate’s interests or talents based on academic-related extracurricular activities included 

Understanding what employers are looking for in an education section included on a resume is key to understand how much or how little information to include.

What an employer is looking for will vary depending on the nature of the job being offered. 

For instance, an entry-level communications job at a corporation is likely to require a bachelor’s degree in communications or a related field.

Comparatively, a job in the welding industry may require the completion of a trade school program but not require a four-year degree. 

It is of the utmost importance when you are applying to various jobs that you read the job descriptions provided carefully, as this is where you will find the necessary information regarding what educational credentials are required of eligible candidates.

This will also help you to tailor your education section according to what credentials or qualifications you have that meet the requirements of the job. 

In general, what an employer is mostly looking for is simply that an education section exists on a resume.

The majority of employers will want candidates who have shown a commitment to their education, reflected through the inclusion of an education section.

For candidates lacking a completed education, it is still considered best practice to include some information regarding what level of education was reached before the point of incompletion, as well as the inclusion of any relevant coursework and knowledge gained from the time the candidate spent pursuing further education. 

Here is a quick rundown of a few key factors to consider for applicants who may be unsure how much information to provide in an education section for a specific employer or position:

• The education section should prove that you have the credentials necessary to complete the job at hand.
• Oversharing of education can be detrimental in some situations, as overqualified candidates may not be considered by employers.
• Job descriptions will always be the best place to look for indicators regarding how much educational background information an employer is looking for.
• Never lie or over-exaggerate — while not all employers double-check applicants’ educational histories, many still do, and dishonesty can cost you the position in the long run.

Final Thoughts

Unless you are crafting a longer-form resume, such as a CV, the education section will generally be a fairly short summary of your academic credentials and achievements.

Education sections can be longer in some cases where job applicants may have hefty academic backgrounds but limited work experience.

Ultimately, the key to making a strong education section is to include only the most relevant information.

Always avoid deceptive wording, as employers can fairly easily run academic background checks if need be. 

Check out our resume templates to get your creativity flowing and get started on your ideal resume today. 

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• How to List Education on Your...

How to List Education on Your Resume (with Examples)

10 min read · Updated on March 27, 2024

Use your education to show you have the knowledge to land the job

Your education is an essential detail to include on your resume, as it indicates that you're trained in your field. Even if your formal education isn't directly related to your current career path (perhaps you made a career change, for instance), it's still worthwhile to show that you succeeded in a high-level learning environment.

As with much of resume writing, the content and format of your resume Education section is fluid and will depend on where you are in your career. Still, it's important that you get it right to prove you're qualified for the job you want.

In this article, you'll learn how to list education on your resume and see examples that you can use for inspiration as you craft your own. 

What to include under Education on a resume

It sounds simple – you list the degrees you've obtained and the schools where you got them. 

But, wait! There's more.

In some instances, it may be appropriate to include your GPA, some relevant coursework, or even give a nod to some major project you worked on. Much of this depends on whether you're fresh out of school or have some experience under your belt. 

Here are some other things to consider when writing the Education section of your resume:

Does your education section go at the top or bottom of your resume?

Do you include a degree if you're still working on it?

Does high school belong on my resume?

Let's start with the basics.

1. Degree earned

When you finally graduated and received your diploma, what did it say? For example, you may have achieved a Bachelor of Arts (BA) or Master of Business Administration (MBA).

Whatever it was, it's the most important education detail you can put on your resume, because it's the official evidence of your education.

One of the most important things to remember is that you should list your degrees in reverse chronological order. That means you start with the most recent one (which is likely to be your highest) and work backward. Also, once you get into college there is no reason to add high school. Employers know that you have to finish high school to get into college, so they'll assume you graduated. 

Remember that one degree type can be applied to a variety of fields of study. For example, a Bachelor of Science degree can be earned for both physics and computer science. Therefore, in addition to the degree itself, you must include the major for which the degree was earned. This way, a hiring manager knows exactly what topics you've studied.

If you completed any minors or concentrations, you can include those too.

3. University, college, or institution

Add some context to your education by listing the university, college, or institution where you went to school. This is especially important if you attended a well-respected program in your field, because it will make you seem all the more impressive.

4. Years attended

The timeframe that you were in school is generally something you don't need to worry about including unless you're still in school or graduated within the last year. Additionally, you might add the dates you were in school if you need to take care of a gap in employment. Outside of these conditions, you should leave off the timeframe you were in school.

Whether or not you include your GPA in the Education section of a resume depends on many factors. If you earned your degree 20 years ago, your GPA is likely a defunct measure of your current abilities. If you earned your degree recently, however, adding your GPA can be a great move – but only if it's 3.5 or higher. You can also indicate any distinctions you earned based on your grades, such as summa cum laude , if applicable.

6. Extracurricular activities

If you were in an honors society, you can list your membership. If you were part of a fraternity or sorority, it's a toss-up. While you might think this is a good inclusion because it demonstrates you were participating in service-related activities or so on, Greek rivalries can extend way past college years and you wouldn't want to accidentally tip off your hiring manager that you belonged to a rival group.

7. Certifications 

Outside of formal education, you may also have taken the initiative to earn supplementary certifications or complete online courses that are relevant to your field. Highlight these in your resume Education section, especially if they are on niche or high-level topics that prove your expertise far beyond a more generalized curriculum.

Here's an example of what all that looks like:

EDUCATION & CREDENTIALS

Bachelor of Business Administration | ABC University | 2021-2024

Dean's list - summa cum laude

President - Marketing Club

Certifications:

Project Management Professional (PMP) | Project Management Institute

Conditions to consider, aside from the basics

Some of those basics may be optional - as we mentioned, you wouldn't include the dates of your degree program if you've been out of school for more than a year. When you begin to craft the Education section of your resume, there are other things to consider as well.

You completed high school

Attending college may not be among the goals you've set for your life. That's okay!

If you decide to graduate high school and go straight to work, your career can still be rich and full. At this point, though, a lot of people ask if they should include high school on their resume. 

A few rules of thumb about adding high school to the Education section of your resume:

Exclude high school altogether if you go to college

Exclude high school if you've attended trade school

Include high school if you have no additional education, professional development, or certifications

Include high school if the job description specifically mentions that you need a high school diploma

Include high school if you're applying for a job while still in high school

This is what the Education section of your resume would look like if all you have to put in it is high school:

Diploma or GED [whichever is appropriate] | DEF High School

Graduated: 2023

Relevant courses: Accounting, Business Law, and Ethics

Just because high school is the highest education you've obtained, doesn't mean you can't take the opportunity to inject some relevant keywords into your resume. 

PRO TIP: Check out our article on tailoring your resume to different jobs to understand how important relevant keywords are when writing your resume.

You have an undergrad degree

Once you graduate from college and start searching for your first entry-level position, it's assumed that you'll remove any information that refers to your high school activities and focus on your new undergrad degree.

Go back to the basics to build your Education section when you earn your Bachelor's degree. 

Include your degree and major

Add the name of the school where you obtained the degree

Throw in some extras, like achievements, coursework, and affiliations

The last point – about adding extras – is extremely important if you have little to no work experience . Adding that you were a Resident Advisor or won first place in a robotics competition could be the thing that puts your resume at the top of the yes pile. 

You have an advanced degree

Once you enter the world of Master's degrees and PhDs the Education section of your resume becomes more robust and might include things like the title of a dissertation, fellowships or internships. 

As before, always start with your highest degree and work backward. Here's an example of an Education section with advanced degrees:

Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) – Leadership Studies | CCC University 

International Student Scholar

Dissertation: Exploring the Relationships of Principal Preparation Programs and Leadership Styles on School Accountability Indices

Master of Arts (MA) – Counseling | BBB University 

Bachelor of Science – Psychology (cum laude) | University of AAA

You started college at one place but finished somewhere else

If you attended college at one institution – perhaps a community college – and then completed your education in another place, you only need to list the university where you completed your degree. All the employer wants to know is which college supplied you with your degree at the end of your education; they don't necessarily care or need to know how you arrived at this place. Save that resume space for more important information.

You didn't attend or finish college

If you attended college but didn't graduate, you may want to list the relevant courses you took, especially if you made it to some of the higher-level classes, to demonstrate the skills you built or the disciplines you were exposed to during your coursework.

You're still pursuing a college degree (undergrad or grad program)

If you're still attending college for either your undergraduate or graduate degree, you can simply add an expected graduation year to this information. You can add a list of a few courses you've completed if 

They're higher-level courses that are relevant to your job goals

You don't have a lot of relevant work experience to market on your resume.

You earned your degree more than 5 years ago

If you earned a degree or certification more than 5 years ago, place your Education at the bottom of your resume and remove the graduation date. It's important to demonstrate you've earned the degree, but there's no need to draw attention to how long ago this occurred.

Doing so will allow you to focus your resume on your skills, accomplishments , and professional history. For those who have many years of professional experience, education becomes less important because you should be moving forward in your career.

Where does the Education section of your resume go?

If you're new to the workforce and your new degree is your best selling point, the Education section should appear toward the top of your resume , because 

You most likely have limited professional experience to list on your resume

Your education is the core competency that you wish to highlight for an employer

After you have a few years of relevant experience under your belt, the education section gets shifted to the bottom of your resume, and your work history will get pushed farther up on the page.

Key takeaways

Presenting your education on your resume in a thoughtful way will open a lot of employment doors. Here's what you should keep in mind as you write the Education section of your resume:

You list education on your resume in a certain way based on what stage of your career you're at

The main components of your Education section are degree, major, school, years attended, and certifications

Tailor your Education section based on keywords and qualifications mentioned in the job description

Be honest about ongoing education or degrees you've decided not to complete

Your Education section is fluid

Remember, there isn't one resume format that fits all job seekers. Be strategic when placing your Education information by considering where you are in your career and how it will help you to land the jobs you're after. 

Find out if you are showcasing your education on your resume - get a free resume review from TopResume.

This article was updated in December 2023. It contains work by Amanda Augustine and Lauren Settembrino  and Heather Rothbauer-Wanish .

Recommended reading:

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The Most Essential Trait You Need to Land Any Job

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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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What to Include in the Education Section of a Resume

• What to Include in the Education Section
• Where to Put the Education Section
• Tips for the Education Section

Resume Education Section Template

Education section examples.

What's the best way to include your education on your resume? In the education section of your resume, list the schools you attended, the degrees you attained, your GPA if you're a student or a recent graduate, and any special awards and honors you earned.

You should tailor the education section of your resume to fit your circumstances, including whether or not you're still a student, and the nature of any academic achievements you've accrued. By including the right information, you can impress your employer and secure an interview.

What to Include in the Education Section of Your Resume

Here's an overview of what to include when you're adding education to your resume.

School and degree.  The essential information to include in the education section are your degree(s) and the schools you attended.

Major and minor.  You can also give more specific information, including your major and minor, as well as the year you graduated, although the latter is not required.

Your GPA.  Include your grade-point average (GPA) if you're currently a student or are 1-2 years out of school and your GPA is strong (about 3.0-3.5 or higher, depending on your major). You may also want to consider including your in-major GPA if it's higher than your overall GPA.

Honors and awards.  Include any honors or awards you have received in school. These can range from Latin honors (such as  cum laude  or  magna cum laude ) to dean’s list and other awards.

You can also include extracurricular clubs, charitable groups, or Greek organizations where you were active and/or held a leadership role.

Certifications, continuing education, and professional development.  Include any professional development courses and certifications. You can list any licenses you have unless you have a separate section of your resume where you include this information.

Where to Put the Education Section of Your Resume

Current students, recent college graduates, or career changers may want to put the education section towards the top of their resume. This is because students typically have limited work experience and want to highlight academic success.

If you have been out of school for at least a couple of years, you can move this section to the bottom of your resume. By this time, you have enough work experience to highlight that you don’t need to rely on your education.

Tips for the Education Section of Your Resume

Consider subsections.  If you have a lot of information to include in the education section of your resume, consider breaking this section into subsections. The main section might include your schools and degrees, and then you can have other sections such as “Awards and Honors,” “Certifications,” and “Professional Development.” If you held a leadership role in a school-affiliated organization (such as a club, sport, or Greek organization), you could list that below the "Awards and Honors" line.

Provide specifics (if useful).  If the sub-college of your university is well known and relevant (e.g., say you graduated from the hospitality school of your university and are applying for a job in hospitality), you can include that before you include your university name. For example, you could write, “School of Hospitality, XYZ College.”

When you can leave out your GPA.  If you're a student or recent graduate and your GPA wasn’t great, but you have other accolades, you can leave the GPA out and put something else, like “XYZ Award Recipient” unless the employer requires a minimum GPA. Once you've been out of school for few years, you can take your GPA out of your resume altogether.

You can leave out high school (after a while). Once you've been in college for a year or so (or once you're in some other sort of continuing education), you can leave your high school degree and GPA out of your resume. However, you should mention your high school diploma (or GED ) if it is your highest degree.

When you can leave out your graduation date. You aren't required to list your graduation date on your resume—but if your degree was earned over 10 - 15 years ago or you're an older job seeker, it's a good idea to omit the date you graduated.

Tell the truth. It's very easy for an employer to confirm whether or not the education information in your resume is true or not. If they have requested a copy, they can simply check your transcript . If you're not happy with your GPA, leave it out, but don’t make it up. Be honest.

If you're a college student or graduate and unsure about what details to include in your resume, check with your career services office for guidance.

You can use the following template to help structure the education section of your resume. Keep in mind that you can change and remove any of this information to fit your own circumstances and the job for which you're applying.

EDUCATION SECTION

College Name Year of graduation Degree, major, and minor GPA

Awards and Honors Include any academic achievements here, including Latin honors, honors within your major, and more.

Certifications Include any professional or educational certifications you've received.

Professional Development Include any professional development experiences, including courses (both online and in person) and seminars. You might also mention here if you're a member of any relevant professional organizations. If you hold a position within the organization, mention that as well.

Resume Education Section Example #1

Huntown College May 2021 Bachelor of Arts in English, department honors 3.8 GPA

Resume Education Section Example #2

EDUCATION XYZ College Bachelor of Arts in Journalism

Awards and Honors Summa cum laude ABC Award for outstanding journalism major

Certifications Level 1 Strategic Communication Certification

Professional Development Conference Coordinator, XYZ Journalism Association of America

Virginia Tech. " Should I Include My GPA on My Resume? " Accessed Sept. 15, 2021.

CareerOneStop. " Education ." Accessed Sept. 15, 2021.

CollegeGrad. " Should You Include Your GPA on Your Entry Level Resume? " Accessed Sept. 15, 2021.

CNBC. " This is the Age When You Should Remove Your Graduation Year From Your Resume ." Accessed Sept. 15, 2021.

The Education Section on the Resume

How to list your studies and where to include them.

Certified Professional Resume Writer

The  education section on a resume  can sometimes be the  shortest part  but is still a vital addition and  required by nearly all employers .

Although it may sometimes seem that the  education section on a resume  is the simplest part, it still needs proper care and attention. Each jobseeker is different and needs to adapt their whole resume, including the education section, to their personal profile as well as remembering to  tailor their resume to the position available .

Failure to adapt your education segment to the position can be costly.  In 18% of cases , employers will just throw out your file without any further thought  if it doesn’t match their needs .

To learn  how to write a good education section on a resume , you must first consider what level of professional work experience and academia the candidate has in order to decide  how and where to include the education section .

It is additionally important to bear in mind the  resume format  the candidate has chosen to use in case it uses a certain structure as standard.

Just like other  resume sections,  such as the  work experience section  or core competencies, the  education section is one of the key parts  a potential employer will look for, simply to get an understanding of the expertise and background of the candidate.

Also, if this part  includes other courses or training sessions  in which the candidate has participated, the hiring manager will see more of  what interests the jobseeker  in his or her professional career.

The following  guide will help you complete the education section on your resume  with the relevant information so a potential employer can see your academic interests and areas of knowledge.

Experience or Education: What to put first

Which section should go first on a resume – work experience or education?  Read on for advice on how to organize your resume sections.

Depending on your personal situation you may want to  list first your education section or the work experience part on your resume . It could also depend on the position you’re interested in or the skills you have gained from different roles in your professional and academic career.

• If you have  recently graduated or are still studying,  it is highly likely that you will have a short professional work history in your desired field or that most of your achievements have come from your academic experience and therefore will benefit more from a resume with the  education section before the work experience section .
• On the other hand, if you have been  working for several years , even if you are deciding to change careers, you would most likely  benefit from a resume with emphasis on the work experience section  as this is where your recent expertise will have developed including any transferable skills.

For those jobseekers who are  unsure of which section should be highlighted  and therefore come first, it is possible that using an online resume creator or  resume template  could help them to  build a suitable resume for their ideal job .

Also, it is possible that  choosing a resume format  will help you decide on  which section should have more precedence  in your resume.

List your education on your resume

When it comes to  writing the education section for your resume  it’s important that you maintain a certain structure in order for it to be easily found by hiring managers.

Similarly to the work experience section, you should always write your academic achievements, diplomas and degrees in  reverse chronological order , beginning with the most recent and going backwards, i.e. naming a Masters degree before the Bachelors.

If you attended college and obtained a BA or BSc, it is  not advisable to include your previous education  or high school degree information. The  ACCU claims  95% of hiring managers will giving hiring preference to your college degree. Therefore it’s best to focus just on this headline academic achievement.

In the case that you attended college and did not finish a degree program, you can  indicate the amount of credits  that you finished.

Within the  resume education section , you should always list the course name, institution where you completed the degree program or training and the type such as:

BA English Literature, College of William and Mary, VA

It is not obligatory to include the graduation date or your grade.

Tips for writing your education in your resume

The following  expert tips are very practical for jobseekers learning how to write an education section  for a resume. Read them carefully and get the most out of them.

• For each entry in the education section of your resume, it is  only advisable to include your GPA if it is superior to 3.0 .
• You can  include the modules studied, projects and coursework completed  and any thesis topics you produced throughout each course,  describing any relevant and important factors .
• It is especially important to  mention any awards, honors or scholarships  you may have been granted.
• If you are writing an  student resume  you may also find it beneficial to  include societies or clubs  of which you were a member, especially if you held a  position of responsibility  in any association where you learnt skills which can be transferred to the workplace. This can also apply to  entry-level resume  candidates and for  recent graduate resumes .
• As a general rule the  education section on a resume can be longer for jobseekers with little to no professional experience  whereas it will only include the basic information for candidates with  professional resumes  for example, as they will be more focused on other areas.
• Amplifying your  education section on your resume can have a positive effect  by providing evidence that the candidate is achievement or goal-oriented.
• Remember to  include any educational or extracurricular activities  that could  prove you are equipped to deal with the pressures of a working environment .

If your career has taken a different path from your degree subject, organize your education section by relevance of courses and training.

Remember that you must always  tailor your resume for your audience ,  employing keywords  taken from the job description which can be included in either your degree program or training courses or in individual project descriptions.

If you’re still unsure of  how to write the education section for a resume  or you need a little more help putting it together or inspiration for  what to include in a resume education section , you can try using an  online resume maker  which will offer practical tips and examples for completing your resume.

ResumeCoach  is a resume builder that provides online  guidance for jobseekers to create their resume  with advice from career experts and real-life practical examples.

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Learning About Your Resume Education Section: Tips and Tricks

When skimming a resume, one of the few sections recruiters really pay attention to is your education.

What’s the reason for this?

All the details in your education section say a lot about you and your background, which in turn says a lot about how you are suitable for the role you’re applying for.

When you’re applying for a job and your educational qualifications or training credentials are required to complete the job, your education section is going to bring your resume to the top of the pile.

In this article, we’re going to show you the different ways to lay out your education section and give you some resume tips for the education section.

Keep reading to find out how to:

• Write your education section when you’re a professional.
• Include your high school education , even if you didn’t get your diploma.
• List your college background if you’re still studying, never finished, or hold a degree.

Along with plenty more important information.

Let’s do this…

What Goes Into Your Resume’s Education Section?

The most vital information that you must include is any degrees you have and the schools you went to. You have to make sure you include:

• School or institution name
• Degree subject and level
• Location of the school
• Which years you attended

Using that as your starting point, you can add in any academic honors you got, scholarships you received, and any other relevant and applicable achievements.

When it comes to the numbers…

Add in your graduation dates if they weren’t all that long ago. Don’t include the dates if it’s been a fair few years since you were at school.

Pro-Tip Stick with the truth on your resume, as obvious as it sounds. If you get caught out lying after you get the job, you’re likely to get fired.

How to Write Resume Education Section?

You might have an unusual or interesting educational background, but whatever the nuances, a hiring manager still wants your education section to be laid out so it’s easy to navigate.

Here are the steps you need to follow when formatting your resume:

• Name the school or education provider, then type of school if it’s not obvious, and where it is
• Give the time that you went there or your graduation date, with a clear note if your studies are completed, in progress, or not finished
• Add your specialization and the level of qualification, certificate, or diploma, if it applies to you
• Note your field of study and what your major and/or minor were, if applicable
• Where it’s relevant, include your GPA , too

It should look a little something like this:

It’s important to note that you should list your education starting with the most recent achievements.

If you’ve got both a master’s and bachelor’s degree, the master’s comes first on the list and then you note down your bachelor’s.

It’s as easy as that!

Pro-Tip If you’re lucky enough to have a lot to pack into your education section, you can use subsections to keep it ordered. Use headings like “Awards and honors”, “Certificates”, and “Professional qualifications”.

Where Does the Education Section Go in Your Resume?

Does your education go above your work experience if you’re still studying but have got some jobs under your belt?

Sounds like a tough call.

We’ve got the answer to where your education section will land.

• For college students or recent graduates , you should highlight your education nicely and high on your resume. The interviewer will see your academic achievements even if you’ve not worked much yet.
• When you’re changing careers and you’ve expanded your education to make the shift, make sure your education section comes before your work experience.
• For those with strong and impressive work history , you can look to add the education section lower down in your resume.

The optimum place to drop in your education section is going to depend on what you’ve achieved academically, as well as how solid your work experience section is.

Pro-Tip To get to grips with resume writing quickly and effectively, and learn how to target it to your skills and profession, check out our resume writing guide .

Does My GPA Belong In My Resume?

If your college years were a blur of frat parties, beer pong, and borrowing class notes, should you be including your GPA on your resume?

There’s a simple rule…

If your GPA isn’t impressive, leave it off.

Meaning that…

A student or someone freshly graduated with a not-so-great GPA, but other accolades and achievements, can leave off their GPA. Instead, look to include something else significant, like “Jones Scholar” or “Hockey team captain”. After you’ve been out of school for a few years, you don’t even need to add in your GPA at all.

To give you a feel for what it can look like:

Pro-Tip Once you’ve been out of school for a few years, there’s no need to include your GPA on your resume, no matter how impressive.

What to Do When I Only Finished High School?

Writing a resume education section for high school students is a little different.

If you didn’t study at a college, what you include in your resume education section should be pretty easy to complete. You just need to write down the name of the high school that you went to, where it was, and the dates that you attended.

For someone whose highest education is high school, your education section will look like this:

When you’ve only got a high school to include, you can show off some of the skills you’ve picked up and other achievements.

These can include school honors, academic awards, and participation in extracurricular activities, as well as any jobs you held when you were at high school.

Check out this example for some ideas:

Wrote 16 articles for your high school newspaper? Played defense on the football team and got to the state finals? These things are definitely worth mentioning in the education section of your resume.

It all comes down to this…

You want to talk about anything that shows you’re enthusiastic about work and you have a great work ethic.

Pro-Tip If you got a professional license or certificate after you graduated high school, you definitely want to include it if it’s directly relevant to the job you’re applying for. Remember also to use an appropriate resume format. For details about how to choose the right resume format for you, check this out.

What if I Didn’t Finish School?

When it comes to writing a resume education section for current students or people who didn’t finish their education, here’s how you can handle it.

This is the process:

Include a list of any coursework that you completed

You can include a different section called “Professional development” where you can highlight how you continued your vocational education.

For unfinished college education, you can still add details to your resume to show how far you did get:

• Write the number of credits earned and the major you were pursuing, so: Completed 120 credits toward Bachelor of Science, Organic Chemistry, 1997-2000.
• Students still at college should include this fact on their resume, for example: Bachelor of Engineering, Electrical Engineering. Massachusetts Institute of Technology. Anticipated graduation date: June 2021

This is also a good place to add details of any coursework that has already been completed and talk about classes you’ve taken that have relevance to the job you want to land.

Pro-Tip Keep everything in your resume relevant to the post you’re going for, in the education section, and everywhere else. Just recently we shared about how to write a strong resume objective and get your resume contact information section right.

It might seem pretty straightforward to write your educational history for your resume. All that you need to do is list the schools you’ve been to in chronological order and all in well.

Simple, but hold up…

There are some things that you need to make a choice about in the education section of your resume. You need to think about where it goes and how to make it stand out to your prospective employer. Always make sure you have the following information listed:

• Institutions name
• Type of degree
• When you graduated, or will graduate

You can also add extra details if it’s appropriate for your situation, such as:

• Academic achievements and honors
• An impressive GPA score
• Coursework relevant to the role
• Extracurricular roles, organizations, and activities

When you’re making choices about what to add, keep it honest and think smart .

Looking at where to add your education to your resume, you need to consider where you’re up to on your career path and what you want your future employer to notice most .

• When your education is the most relevant and prominent feature of your resume, it goes near the top
• When you’ve got plenty of industry experience, put this high up and your education below it

With this one, there are no solid rules that you can get completely wrong when you’re looking at your education section in your resume. For someone who doesn’t have any education, training, licenses, or certificates, it’s not the end of the world because you can just leave it out completely. There are other sections of your resume that will show off who you are and what you can do. Check out our guide to writing a killer resume skills section .

Last of all…

To make sure you’ve got everything listed that you need and you’re not making any glaring errors, it’s a great idea to use our well-structured resume templates . Or just start creating your CV using our online resume editor. Sign up now 👈

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The Do’s and Don’ts of the Education Section on Your Resume

The education section on a resume is a crucial part that displays the candidate’s academic qualifications and achievements. This section provides employers with valuable information about the candidate’s background, skills, and capabilities. It includes details about the highest level of education achieved, academic honors, relevant coursework, and certifications.

Understanding the Basics: What to Include in the Education Section

The education section of a resume is one of the most important sections as it provides job recruiters with critical details about the candidate’s academic qualifications, which can help in assessing whether the candidate is suitable for the job or not. Here are some of the basic components that should ideally be included in the education section of a resume:

A. Educational Qualification

This section should indicate the level of education attained by the candidate. In most cases, job recruiters are interested in knowing the highest educational degree a candidate has attained. For example, the candidate might indicate that they have completed a Bachelor’s degree, a Master’s degree, or a Diploma.

B. Institution Name, Location, and Date of Graduation

It is important to provide detailed information about the education institution where the candidate studied. This information should include the institution name, location, and the date of graduation. Providing this information helps job recruiters to verify the candidate’s educational background and determine whether or not the candidate meets the prerequisites for the job.

C. Degree, Major, and Minor

It is crucial to indicate the specific degree earned by the candidate, the major field of study, as well as any minor fields of study. This information helps job recruiters to assess whether or not the candidate has the right academic background that aligns with the requirements of the job.

D. GPA and Honors

If the candidate has an outstanding academic record, indicating their GPA and any honors they received can make a significant difference in how job recruiters perceive their candidacy. Candidates with high GPAs and academic honors often stand a greater chance of being shortlisted for job interviews. However, if the candidate has a low GPA or didn’t receive any academic honors, it is best not to include this information on the resume.

The education section of a resume is a critical component that should not be overlooked or underestimated. Candidates must provide comprehensive details about their academic qualifications to help job recruiters verify their credentials effectively. Providing detailed information about the institution name, location, date of graduation, degree, major, and minor fields of study, as well as any academic honors, can significantly enhance the chances of being shortlisted for the job interview.

The Do’s: Tips for Writing a Winning Education Section

When it comes to creating a winning education section on your resume, there are several key tips to keep in mind. Here are some of the top things to focus on:

A. Highlight Relevant Education

First and foremost, it’s important to highlight your most relevant education. This might include your degree(s), certifications, or any specialized training you’ve received that makes you especially qualified for the job you’re applying for. Make sure to include the name of the institution you attended, the degree or program you completed, and the dates of your attendance.

B. Showcase Achievements and Skills

In addition to highlighting your education, it’s also important to showcase any achievements or skills you developed during your time as a student. This might include things like academic awards, extracurricular activities or leadership roles, internships or other work experience, and any relevant projects or research you completed. By highlighting these achievements and skills, you can demonstrate that you have not only gained knowledge and expertise through your education, but have also developed practical experience and valuable skills that will help you excel in your career.

C. Use Action-Oriented Language

When describing your education, achievements, and skills, make sure to use action-oriented language that helps you stand out from the competition. This means using strong verbs to describe your accomplishments, such as “managed,” “implemented,” “created,” “designed,” and so on. By using active, engaging language, you can make your experience and skills seem more compelling and impressive to potential employers.

D. Quantify Results

Another way to make your education and skills stand out is by quantifying your results. This might include things like the GPA you achieved in college, the number of leadership roles you held in student organizations, the amount of money you helped raise for a charitable cause, or any other measurable result that demonstrates your abilities and accomplishments. By quantifying your results, you can help potential employers see the value you can bring to their organization.

E. Customize Education Section for the Job

Finally, it’s important to customize your education section for each job you apply for. This means tailoring your education and accomplishments to match the requirements of the specific position you’re applying for. By doing this, you can demonstrate to employers that you have the specific skills and experience they’re looking for, and increase your chances of getting hired.

By following these tips, you can create a winning education section that helps you stand out from the competition, demonstrates your value to potential employers, and lands you the job you want.

The Don’ts: Common Mistakes to Avoid in the Education Section

When it comes to the education section of your resume, there are certain mistakes you want to avoid. These common mistakes can detract from your qualifications and make it harder for you to stand out from other candidates. Here are some things to avoid:

A. Don’t Overshare Irrelevant Education

While you may have some education that is not directly related to the job you are applying for, it’s important to be selective about what you include in your education section. Only include education that is relevant to the position and showcases your qualifications. Don’t overshare irrelevant education, as it can make you seem unfocused.

B. Avoid Typos and Grammatical Errors

A resume with typos and grammatical errors can be a red flag to potential employers. Take the time to proofread your education section and make sure it is error-free. Simple mistakes can make a big difference in how you are perceived.

C. Don’t Lie about Educational Qualifications

It can be tempting to exaggerate or lie about your educational qualifications, but this is a big mistake. Employers will likely verify your education, and if they find out you lied, it can result in the loss of the job opportunity or damage to your professional reputation.

D. Don’t Highlight Poor Grades or GPA

If your grades and GPA are not stellar, it’s best not to draw attention to them. Focus on highlighting your accomplishments and experience instead. Employers are more interested in what you can bring to the table than your academic shortcomings.

E. Don’t Use Generic or Vague Descriptions

Using generic or vague descriptions of your education can make it difficult for employers to understand what you have accomplished. Be specific about projects, coursework, and skills you have gained. This will help you stand out from other candidates and show your unique qualifications.

By avoiding these mistakes, you can create a polished and professional education section on your resume that showcases your relevant skills and accomplishments.

Examples of Good Education Sections for Different Career Fields

When it comes to crafting a strong resume, the education section is a crucial part that can make or break your chances of getting hired. Different career fields have varying expectations for what should be included in this section. Here are examples of good education sections for four different career fields:

A. Education Section for Accounting and Finance Jobs

A strong education section for accounting and finance jobs should include the following:

• Bachelor’s or Master’s degree in Accounting, Finance, Economics, or Business Administration
• GPA if it is 3.0 or higher (if lower, it’s best to leave it off)
• Any relevant coursework in taxation, auditing, financial reporting, and risk management
• Bachelor of Science in Accounting, XYZ University, 2016-2020
• Relevant coursework: Principles of Accounting, Intermediate Accounting, Taxation, Financial Reporting, and Audit and Risk Management

B. Education Section for Marketing and Advertising Jobs

A great education section for marketing and advertising jobs should include these key elements:

• Bachelor’s or Master’s degree in Marketing, Advertising, Communications, or Business Administration
• Any relevant coursework in market research, consumer behavior, public relations, and digital marketing
• Any relevant certifications or workshops in areas such as Google Analytics or SEO
• Bachelor of Arts in Advertising and Public Relations, ABC University, 2016-2020
• Relevant coursework: Consumer Behavior, Marketing Research, Media Planning, Digital Marketing, and Public Relations
• Certifications: Google Analytics

C. Education Section for Teaching and Education Jobs

An education section for teaching and education jobs should have the following information:

• Bachelor’s or Master’s degree in Education, Early Childhood Development or any other relevant degree
• Any relevant coursework including classroom management, child development, and education psychology
• Relevant certifications in teaching
• Master of Science in Elementary Education, XYZ University, 2016-2018
• Relevant coursework: Classroom Management, Educational Psychology, Child Development, and Reading and Writing instruction
• Certification: State Teaching Certification

D. Education Section for Information Technology Jobs

An education section for information technology jobs should contain the following:

• Bachelor’s or Master’s degree in Information Technology, Computer Science, or Software Engineering
• Any relevant coursework that expands upon algorithm development, programming languages, or systems administration
• Relevant certifications in tools or programming languages
• Bachelor of Science in Computer Science, ABC University, 2016-2020
• Relevant coursework: Data Structures, Database Systems, Computer Networks, Algorithm Development, and Principles of Software Systems
• Certifications: Python Certification

In all of these examples, it’s important to highlight any relevant academic achievements or extracurricular activities. However, it’s important not to include irrelevant information.

Education Section in Different Resume Formats

The education section is a vital component of your resume, as it provides the reader with an understanding of your academic background and potential qualifications. However, how you structure this section will depend on the type of resume format you are using. Here, we will explore the do’s and don’ts of the education section in chronological, functional, and combination resume formats.

A. Chronological

In a chronological resume format, you should list your education in reverse chronological order, starting with your most recent degree. Include the following information:

• Institution name
• Degree earned
• Field of study
• Graduation date

Be concise and avoid providing unnecessary information, such as your GPA unless specifically requested. Additionally, if you have relevant coursework or academic honors, you can list these items in a separate section or include them within your education section.

B. Functional

In a functional resume format, the focus is on skills and accomplishments rather than a chronological work history. However, you still want to highlight your education and how it relates to your areas of expertise. In this case, you can create a separate section titled “Education and Training.” Within this section, you can include:

• Relevant coursework
• Academic honors
• Professional development or training

This approach allows the reader to quickly understand your educational background while emphasizing your skills and qualifications.

C. Combination

A combination resume format combines elements of both chronological and functional formats, highlighting both work experience and skills. In this case, you can include your education section at the bottom of your resume. This section can include the same information as a chronological format but can also highlight any skills or accomplishments gained through your education.

For example, if you earned a degree in marketing, you can note that you gained skills in market research, data analysis, and product development. This helps to emphasize your education in a way that is relevant to the position you are applying for.

Tips for Fresh Graduates and Students

As a fresh graduate or student, your education section is likely to be the most prominently featured part of your resume. While your academic achievements are important, they may not be enough to set you apart from other candidates. Therefore, it’s important to also highlight your relevant coursework, projects, extracurricular activities, community services, and relevant work experience. Here are some tips on how to do that effectively:

A. Emphasize Relevant Coursework and Projects

When listing your coursework and projects, focus on those that are relevant to the position you are applying for. For example, if you are applying for a job in marketing, you may want to highlight coursework and projects related to advertising, market research, or digital marketing. Be specific about the skills you acquired and the tasks you completed in each project.

B. Highlight Extracurricular Activities and Community Services

Employers are not only interested in your academic achievements but also in your personal qualities and interests. Extracurricular activities and community services can showcase your leadership, teamwork, communication skills, and commitment to social causes. List the activities that are relevant to the job you are applying for and briefly describe your role and contributions.

C. Mention Internships, Co-op Programs, or Part-Time Jobs

Internships, co-op programs, and part-time jobs provide you with valuable work experience that can translate into job skills. They also demonstrate your industry knowledge, work ethic, and adaptability. Be sure to describe the job duties and responsibilities in each position, as well as any achievements or recognition you received.

Remember to be selective about the information you include in your education section. Not all of your coursework, activities, and work experience need to be listed. Choose the ones that are most relevant and impressive, and tailor your resume to the position you are applying for. By doing so, you will increase your chances of getting noticed and landing an interview. When it comes to creating a compelling education section on your resume, professionals with extensive work experience need to be strategic and thoughtful in their approach. Rather than simply listing all of their educational achievements, these individuals must emphasize the most relevant degrees, showcase professional certifications and trainings, highlight their industry-specific skills and knowledge, and underscore the importance of continuing education throughout their careers.

First and foremost, it is crucial for experienced professionals to emphasize the educational degrees that are most relevant to their current and future career paths. This means focusing on degrees that have direct applications to their industry or field, as well as degrees that demonstrate a deep expertise in a particular subject area. For example, if you are a marketing executive, highlighting your MBA in marketing can be an effective way to demonstrate your mastery of this field.

In addition to emphasizing relevant educational degrees, experienced professionals should also make sure to showcase any professional certifications and trainings they have completed throughout their career. This could include certifications from industry associations or organizations, as well as more specialized trainings in particular skills or areas of expertise. By highlighting these certifications and trainings, you can demonstrate not only your commitment to professional development, but also your command of the latest industry practices and trends.

In order to truly stand out in your education section, it is also important to highlight your industry-specific skills and knowledge. This means identifying the key skills that are most sought after in your industry or field, and showcasing how you have developed and honed these skills over time. For example, if you are an IT professional, highlighting your proficiency in software development or network administration can be a powerful way to demonstrate your technical expertise.

Finally, it is important not to underestimate the importance of continuing education throughout your career. Even for experienced professionals, it is crucial to engage in ongoing learning and development opportunities in order to stay up-to-date with industry trends, refine your skills, and remain competitive in the job market. Whether through attending conferences, pursuing advanced degrees or certifications, or simply taking online courses, continuing education should be a key part of any experienced professional’s career strategy.

The education section of your resume is a critical opportunity to showcase not only your credentials, but also your commitment to ongoing learning and growth. By emphasizing relevant educational degrees, showcasing professional certifications and trainings, highlighting industry-specific skills and knowledge, and emphasizing the importance of continuing education, experienced professionals can create a compelling and effective education section that sets them apart from the competition.

Education Section in Online Resumes and LinkedIn Profiles

An effective education section in your online resume or LinkedIn profile can greatly enhance your chances of getting noticed by potential employers. However, there are certain do’s and don’ts that you should keep in mind when creating this section.

A. Follow Best Practices for Website Optimization

Just like any web page, your online resume or LinkedIn profile needs to be optimized to get the best results from search engines. This means making sure your education section includes relevant keywords and is presented in a clear and easy-to-read format. Use headers and bullet points to break up long paragraphs and make your key points stand out.

B. Use Relevant Keywords and Phrases

To improve your search engine rankings and catch the attention of recruiters, include relevant keywords and phrases in your education section. Use terms that are central to your industry or line of work to increase your visibility among hiring managers. However, don’t just stuff your section with keywords – make sure they are used in a natural and meaningful way.

C. Showcase Different Types of Education

Another way to make your education section stand out is by showcasing different types of education. This includes not only your traditional college degrees, but also any certifications, training programs, or online courses you have completed. These additional qualifications can demonstrate your commitment to staying up-to-date in your field and can make you a more attractive candidate to potential employers.

D. Personalize the Education Section for Online Profiles

Finally, it’s important to remember that your education section needs to be personalized for your online profiles. This means taking into account the specific requirements and preferences of each platform. For example, LinkedIn allows you to upload multimedia files, such as presentations or videos, to your education section, while online resumes may require a more streamlined format. Use keywords and language that are consistent with the voice and tone of each platform and customize your section to appeal to your target audience.

Education Section for Career Changers

When it comes to crafting a winning resume, the education section is a critical component that should not be overlooked – particularly for individuals looking to transition into a new field. Whether you’re coming from a completely different industry or looking to make a lateral move, showcasing your education background in the best way possible is key to grabbing the attention of potential employers.

Here are some essential Do’s and Don’ts to keep in mind as you navigate the education section on your resume:

A. Emphasize Transferable Skills

Even if you don’t have direct experience in the field you’re pursuing, highlighting your transferable skills is a great way to convey your potential as a strong candidate. Depending on your background, these skills may include things like communication, leadership, problem-solving, or attention to detail. Begin by assessing your core competencies and identifying what qualities you have that can help you excel in your target role.

B. Highlight Relevant Education or Training

While transferable skills are important, relevant education or training can be equally valuable. Degrees or certifications in a related field can demonstrate your commitment to learning and show that you already have some foundational knowledge or skills. Be sure to list any relevant coursework or training programs you’ve completed, particularly if they’ve given you hands-on experience or exposure to industry-specific tools or technologies.

C. Use Target Job Descriptions as Guide

When it comes to honing your education section, looking at job descriptions for your target role can be a helpful tool. This can give you a sense of the types of education or certifications that are most valued in the industry, as well as any specific skills or expertise that could set you apart from other applicants. Use this information to tailor your education section to fit the requirements and preferences of the jobs you’re interested in.

D. Don’t Disregard Relevant Experience

Finally, while education is certainly important, don’t neglect to include any relevant work experience that could give you an edge. Whether you’ve worked in a related field or have relevant experience from another industry, highlighting these experiences can help demonstrate that you have practical skills and knowledge that can easily transfer into your new role. Be sure to include any internships or volunteer experiences that may be relevant as well.

The education section of your resume should be approached strategically, with an eye toward highlighting the skills and experiences that will set you apart from the pack. By keeping these Do’s and Don’ts in mind, you’ll be well on your way to crafting a winning resume that showcases your potential as a career-changer.

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

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A resume and cover letter that are well-written and well-constructed is the first critical step in seeking out career opportunities. They provide professional snapshots of your work experience, volunteer experience, and educational achievements. Employers typically view resumes very quickly, so it must highlight your most recent and related information.

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How to Write a Power BI Resume

Learn how to write a Power BI resume to demonstrate your skills and credentials in business intelligence.

Bill Gates infamously coined the phrase, “Content is king,” in 1996, and while that may remain true, another royal has made its way to the forefront of the business landscape—data. Modern businesses across various sectors rely on data to make critical decisions. However, to optimize your use of that data, knowing what to do with it is essential. That’s where Microsoft Power BI shines. 

Microsoft Power BI is a popular business intelligence platform with software, applications, and other tools businesses can use to collect, analyze, present, and share data. It empowers professionals to gain a more thorough understanding of business processes, customers, competitors, and the market. It’s popular across various industries, including manufacturing, retail, and finance.

Applying for a job that requires Power BI skills and familiarity necessitates a resume that can help highlight your skill set. When writing a Power BI resume, highlight your Power BI certifications, experience using the platform, relevant skills, and how it relates to your abilities to do the job you’re applying for.

Discover how to present your Power BI resume effectively and customize it for each role you pursue.

Outlining your Power BI resume

Many professionals use Power BI, including developers, non-technical business owners, and managers. How you present your Power BI experience and skills should be tailored specifically to each position you apply for. If you are a Power BI developer, you will present your skills very differently to a business manager who uses business intelligence tools to grow and develop a company.

Before writing your resume, clearly describe what you’re trying to achieve. Consider the following:

What you are applying for

The skills you need

How Power BI relates to the role

Once you have that picture in mind, consider the various sections and information to include in your Power BI resume.

Write a strong introduction.

Consider this section your opportunity to impress hiring managers and tell them exactly why you’re right for the job. Your summary section is where you outline your professional experience, essential skills, and achievements relating to the role you’re applying for. It’s this section in which you introduce your credentials in Power BI so it’s immediately apparent to the employer that you are a qualified candidate, and it’s worth reading on.

Your summary is ideally a few sentences detailing who you are, your relevant experience and credentials, and what you want to do. It’s an excellent opener to help you stand out and highlight your Power BI skills and other credentials.

Outline your relevant skills.

Including a skills section in your resume is another effective way to highlight what you bring to the job, including your Power BI experience and any related skills, such as data analysis, data visualization, and data reporting. It’s critical to highlight your skills throughout your resume, but having a dedicated skills section enhances your chances of advancing in the job search process because it makes your resume more scannable for busy recruiters and applicant tracking systems (ATS).

In this section, you can include both technical and workplace skills, as both are relevant to a role using Power BI. Make sure the skills you choose apply to the role, using the job description to determine the skills the recruiter is looking for.

Skills vary depending on the role you’re applying for, but examples may include:

Technical skills

Creating and using dashboards

Data preparation

Data modeling

Programming languages

Data analysis

Business intelligence tools

Front end development 

Web applications

Data visualization

Workplace skills

Critical thinking

Communication

Attention to detail

Problem-solving

Connect your experience to the job you’re applying for.

Your experience needs its own section. A popular formatting that works well is starting with your recent job and working backward. Remember, this doesn't have to be paid experience. You can also include volunteering, internships, personal projects, and events you’ve attended.

Whatever you include in this section, ensure that it matters specifically for the position you’re applying for. How relevant experience seems is largely down to how you word it. Listing your experience isn’t enough. You need to tailor it to the role you’re applying for and include achievements that demonstrate you have what it takes to do the job. Using measurables and metrics helps provide solid evidence for your claims.

To ensure you cover everything the recruiter is looking for, use the job description and add anything you’ve done that relates directly to it, with measurable examples.

Have a certification section.

If you’re writing a Power BI resume and have experience using the platform, you may have credentials like a Power BI Professional Certificate or relevant certifications relating to data analytics or data visualization. If that’s the case, creating a certification section is essential. You may add it to your main education section or create a separate one. Some examples of certifications you may want to showcase include:

Microsoft’s Certified Power BI Data Analyst Associate

Associate Certified Analytics Professional

AWS Certified Data Analytics - Specialty

ATS-proof your Power BI resume.

Recruiters use applicant tracking systems (ATS) to help sift applications. These systems rely on automated processes to select and dismiss resumes based on chosen keywords. If you want to get to the recruitment stage, where a human reads your resume, it’s imperative that you pass the ATS screening first.

To ATS proof your Power BI resume, factor in the following:

Use keywords : Use the job description to select the keywords recruiters might use and add these to your resume by including them in your skills section. Also, use keyword-rich terminology as appropriate when describing your achievements and experience. Use full-length terms and acronyms, such as Power BI, BI tools, business intelligence tools, and any variations you find.

Use clear fonts : Keep the fonts simple and straightforward to make it easy for ATS to read your document. The systems sometimes miss text written in lesser-used fonts with tails.

Use a simple format : Formatting can also confuse ATS, including tables, text boxes, color, and diagrams, can be confusing for ATS systems. Stick with a clean, simple format, even if you think it isn’t as appealing as it could be.

Key takeaways for selling yourself as a Power BI expert

Power BI and all that comes with it can help you in a number of job roles. The key to optimizing its effectiveness is to include it on your resume in a way that shows your abilities, experience, and any related qualifications. Recap the following factors to put the finishing touches to your resume.

Show your technical abilities.

Business intelligence can be technical in nature. While you don’t need to be technical to use Power BI, many of its roles, such as Power BI developer, are technical. Therefore, it’s essential to highlight your technical abilities. Do this in the skills section and the examples you provide in your experience section. Remember to demonstrate your skills through the certifications, courses, and projects you include.

Tailor your resume to the role.

Today’s competitive job market requires that you customize your resume to each job you apply for to ensure you make it past the ATS and quickly show recruiters why they should consider you. You must highlight your skills, experience, and qualifications that matter for the precise job listing. An employer wants to see that you have the know-how to take what you’ve learned and use it to succeed in the position.

Use keywords.

Tailoring your Power BI resume and ensuring it is ATS-compliant requires using keywords. Look at the job description, company website, and essential criteria for the job and pull out keywords. Use these words in your resume to align with what the company wants in an employee and their terminology.

Resources for resume building

Take a look on Coursera for a range of resources to help build your Power BI resume:

How to Make a Resume: 2024 Writing Guide

16 Resume Tips for Your 2024 Job Search

10 Ways to Improve Your Resume 

How to Add Coursera Credentials to Your Resume

Earn a certificate for your Power BI resume with Coursera.

Learning and mastering Power BI can help you maximize your use of data, no matter what industry you work in. Applying for a job requiring Power BI skills necessitates a resume that shines.

Enhance your Power BI resume with online courses and programs that can help expand your skill set. For example, you might sharpen your analysis skills with the Google Data Analytics Professional Certificate or the State University of New York at Buffalo’s Data Analysis and Visualization course. You can also get more practical experience working with Power BI with options like the Microsoft Power BI Data Analyst Professional Certificate mentioned earlier or Getting Started with Power BI Desktop , a Guided Project available on Coursera.

Keep reading

Coursera staff.

Editorial Team

Coursera’s editorial team is comprised of highly experienced professional editors, writers, and fact...

This content has been made available for informational purposes only. Learners are advised to conduct additional research to ensure that courses and other credentials pursued meet their personal, professional, and financial goals.