Resume Part 5 – Education

 

When writing your resume, focus on the needs of the employer. Continually ask yourself, “What does the employer need?” and “What does the job description require?” to determine what information to include in your resume. This applies to your education section as well.

Format

Usually, education follows work history on your resume. However, if you’re a recent graduate and have little work experience, you can place your education before your work experience.

If you have more than one degree, list the most recent education first.

If you have two or more different types of education, such as degrees and certificates, consider separating into two headings: Education and Certifications.

Also, what you studied is more important than where you received that education. Therefore, place what you received before the school name. If you didn’t receive a diploma or certificate, then include relevant coursework.

You can choose whether or not to include the dates. Personally, I wouldn’t if I received my education over five years ago. However, I would take some free courses that relate to the career I am pursuing to show current knowledge.

Here are some examples on how to write your education section:

Relevant Courses Only

Education
Business Courses, School Name, City, ST
High School Diploma, School Name, City, ST

Degrees

Education
Pursuing MBA, Management, School Name, City, ST
Bachelor of Arts, Management, School Name, City, ST
High School Graduate, School Name, City, ST

Degrees and Certificates

Certifications
Strategic Management Certificate, School Name, City, ST
Business Modeling & Decision Making Certificate, School Name, City, ST

Education
Bachelor of Arts, Management, School Name, City, ST
GED, School Name, City, ST

Remember, no matter how diverse your education, only include studies that pertain to the needs of the job lead or employer. And if you’re unsure, ask yourself, “How will this education benefit the employer or position?”

 

Josie Toth is a Regional Facilitator for Workforce Solutions. She facilitates job search skills and career exploration classes in the 13-county Houston-Galveston area. She has a Bachelor of Arts in Liberal Studies and enjoys encouraging others in their pursuit of meaningful work.