how to list phd on resume

• • 2+ years of experience in how the AI development lifecycle impacts systems, distributed computing, and cloud-native paradigm
• • Main research focused on how blockchain security could be enhanced by 65% within decentralized infrastructure
• • Other research projects (36+), looking at how future trends could impact network security in AI automated systems
• • Had 16+ publications in the Journal of Computer Science and secured +$16M in grant funding over the last two years
• • Assisted 13+ senior researchers and computer science professors in completing various applications by debugging codes
• • Participated in various other aspects of the software development process, including assessing briefs, writing code, and testing systems to ensure 100% accuracy
• • Built 10 full-stack web applications with Java and Ruby
• • Was tasked to help 5 researchers with the development of for-academia software with a focus on security
• • Analyzed the code specifications and transformations to comply with 100% of all security, accuracy, and client-briefed protocols and parameters
• • Met all mandatory schedule dates within the development process - receiving 98% approval in customer satisfaction

9 PhD Resume Examples & Guide for 2024

In pursuing a PhD, you are responsible for conducting original research, contributing to your field of study, and disseminating findings through publications and presentations. On your resume, highlight your dissertation topic, relevant teaching or mentoring experience, and any grants or fellowships you have received. Emphasize your analytical abilities, research methodology expertise, and proficiency in statistical software or programming languages. Mention any collaborations with industry partners or significant conference presentations to illustrate the impact of your work.

All resume examples in this guide

Traditional

Resume Guide

Guide Overview

Additional Resumes

Extra Reads

Writing Your Ph.D. Resume

Resume Header Tips

Ph.D. Resume Summary

Resume Experience Section

Systematizing Your Experience

How to Include Your Degree

Ph.D. in Progress on Resume

Skill Set for Ph.D. Resumes

Certifications on Resume

Additional Sections

Key Takeaways

George C. Jones's 8-year-Odyssey to his doctoral degree in engineering is finally complete. All he has to do now is complete his Ph.D. resume.

Little does George know that within the next three years, he'd apply to 500+ roles and still not be any closer to working in the renewable energy sector.

A little birdie told us why.

Everywhere George applied, he was labeled as an "egghead": book-smart with no real-world experience.

At least that's the story his resume told.

Unfortunately, George's sad "tale" depicts many graduates’ job searches.

By 2030/31, the US is expected to have 221,000 Ph.D. graduates . While this may be fantastic news for the academic community, the job pool is limited.

Swimming into the big blue sea - a.k.a. the "real world" - would require Ph.D. graduates to adapt their resumes to the business or industry requirements.

And listing vague bullets pinpointing your experience just won't do.

Enhancv knows how to translate your skills, knowledge, and achievements to ensure your resume stands out in the vast talent pool.

Because a well-written Ph.D. resume , showing skills, passion, and knowledge, is your ticket to the moon and beyond.

Our exclusive, Ph.D. resume guide will answer some of the following questions for you:

• What are some of the biggest, unintentional mistakes Ph.D. graduates tend to make when writing their resumes?
• Perfecting the top one-third of your resume: how to get recruiters' attention every time?
• 102 of the most popular Ph.D. skills you need to add to your resume right now!
• Lacking much professional experience: how to align your academic background with job expectations?
• Get inspired with more ideas about formatting, writing your resume summary, and including your academic body of work in a way that works.

4 additional Ph.D. resume samples and why they work

Ph.d. bioengineering graduate.

This Ph.D. Bioengineering Graduate has certainly focused her effort on getting that tenure-track position.

Here’s why her resume works.

Within the top one-third of Dr. Taylor’s resume (the headlines, summary, and skills section), you’ll find many relevant keywords for the job advert.

She has also used the summary to qualify and quantify her results to help recruiters better understand her strengths.

The experience section is split into two parts: the first one notes all relevant teaching experience; the second section showcases depth and knowledge of research.

Dr. Taylor has included industry experience and strengths to further define her skill set and show results.

This approach would also be very helpful for any Applicant Tracking System (ATS) reviewing the resume, as it cross-aligns the candidate’s talents with the job requirements.

Ph.D. mechanical engineering

If you’re wondering how to translate your academics into real-life experience, check this example out.

Dr. Aubry’s resume headline highlights his area of expertise and his Ph.D. degree, while his summary qualifies his key academic achievements, contributions, and success.

Dr. Aubry’s skills section focuses more on the technology he is apt at within the specified job requirements.

His roles as a lab technician, contributor, and research assistant also hint to recruiters that he’s results-oriented and can show how his work affected the industry.

Finally, his strengths section cross-aligns soft skills that are important for the role, including mechanical engineering knowledge, cross-disciplinary teamwork, and technical writing.

Apta certified physical therapist

In some industries, a specific certification can be a real game changer to meeting ATS standards.

Dr. Brubaker knows this and that’s why she has used her resume to highlight her American Physical Therapy Association (APTA) certification within various sections (headline, summary, and certification).

Another reason why Dr. Brubaker’s resume works is that it pinpoints her niche of expertise with tangible results.

Her education section not only lists all of her degrees, but she has turned recruiters’ attention to the grant funding her Ph.D. thesis secured (an outcome of the project).

Did you notice how she curated the experience section? Dr. Brubaker started with her more job-oriented responsibilities, followed by a leadership role.

if you’ve participated in any extracurricular activities during your studies, they could indicate various soft skills on your resume, including leadership, initiative, organization, etc.

data scientist, ongoing Ph.D. in statistics

Are you a current Ph.D. student, wondering how to include your ongoing degree on your resume?

Charles Flack’s resume includes some of the best how-to practices.

Charles uses the resume headline and summary’s first section to specify his research niche, which is followed by his ongoing Ph.D. Status.

N.B. Remember that the recruitment process is one of building trust with honesty. If you note in your resume that you’re a Ph.D. graduate (without this being the reality), recruiters will find out.

Continuing with Charles’s resume summary. It goes on to include an array of expertise and soft skills (e.g. leadership, adaptiveness, perfectionism) all within achieved results in academia.

His experience section includes roles in leadership, technical writing, and private tutoring, denoting individual skills and contributions.

The strengths Charles has included are more specific and tie in with data science roles. Those include quantitative problem-solving, deep learning, and iterative process.

21 Ph.D. related resume examples to help you get inspired

• Entry-Level
• Grant Writer
• Lab Technician
• Research Associate
• Research Assistant
• Lab Assistant
• Lab Manager
• Finance Intern
• Data Science Intern
• Entry Level Engineering
• Entry-Level Mechanical Engineer
• Software Engineer Intern
• Nursing Student
• Data Analyst Entry Level

Quick steps to success in writing your Ph.D. resume to get recruiters’ attention

Let's start with a big no-no: your academic CV, the one you used to secure that tenure position, is a No-go. Put simply - it lacks personality .

HRs and the Applicant Tracking System (ATS) need more context to your experience.

Unfortunately, here comes one of the biggest disadvantages you may face, leaving academia. Often, Ph.D. graduates get rejected as they lack practical work experience .

Don't get discouraged. Instead, find a resume format that works for you.

For Ph.D. graduates that have less work experience, we recommend a functional-skill-based format . It will help you highlight your unique skill set and academic excellence.

Also, it'll align your niche area of expertise with the role expectations.

Now that we've settled the formatting debate, let's look at a couple of more quick pointers for your Ph.D. resume.

1. The top one-third of your resume - the resume header and summary - is crucial to getting a high score on the ATS.

That's why you should try to include as many of the advert's relevant requirements within this section.

2. Expand your qualifications and skills within the experience section.

Don't just list plain bullets, but focus on the outcomes of your studies, research, or publications.

How to write your experience bullets:

3. Speaking of impact, detail your accomplishments within your academic work.

Focus on the picture and your research's influence on the scientific field, business/ industry, or communities.

Bonus: Remember to always list all work and academic experience that is relevant to the job you’re applying for.

Your Ph.D. experience can open many doors for you, giving you a front-row seat on the cutting edge of new technologies.

But let's not get ahead of ourselves, here are a couple more bits and pieces to keep in mind when writing your Ph.D. resume.

What recruiters are looking out for in your Ph.D. resume:

• What methodology or technology have you used to prove your research?
• If you've ever led teams, were you able to manage them successfully?
• Would your niche area of expertise contribute to the organizational goals?
• Can you bring to the table more than just theoretical knowledge?
• How fast can you adapt to a non-academic environment and deliver tangible results?

Ph.D. resume's five most important sections:

• Resume header with keywords from the job description
• Resume summary cross-aligning requirements with experience
• Resume experience to expand on the summary
• Education section, listing all diplomas
• Professional achievements in research and publications

Your Ph.D. resume should balance your knowledge with how fast it can be applied in a real-world environment.

That's why you need to be precise about the resume sections you chose to prove your merit.

Mythbusters: Your PhD resume header under the Enhancv microscope

After endless hours of searching different platforms, you've finally found that cancer research position that perfectly matches your profile.

Avoiding all emotional attachment and excitement, you finally decide on the following header:

2 PhD resume header examples

Let’s look at the bright side of things. If the organization would like to get in touch with Dr. Garnett, they'd easily find his contact details .

But on the other hand, he is making one huge mistake: Dr. Garnett isn't taking advantage of the power of the top section of his resume. More specifically - his headline .

This crucial section could provide Ph.D. graduates with an opportunity to include all relevant keywords that could match their profile. And at the same time, tease their professional story.

This may be obvious, but this example works as it shows that Dr. Garnett is not only a Ph.D. graduate, but his specific area of research and interest, which should supposedly match with the role he’s applying for.

A rule of thumb for headers is to never be vague about your research and expertise.

You could list your Ph.D. degree within your resume title so that it’s the first thing recruiters (and the ATS) see.

In the case of Dr. Garnett, his resume title could read “Dr. David Garnett, Ph.D.”.

Our suggestion is to be wary about the organization you’re applying for because if the culture is more informal, this may come off as “pretentious”.

Ph.D. resume summaries: HRs’ favorite instrument for advanced career storytelling

The Ph.D. resume summary is a really useful section for good first impressions and explaining your experience.

The summary can be used to highlight your skills, strengths, and achievements. While telling the story of your professional growth.

We know how important real-world examples are for you.

So, without further ado, here's how Dr. Lucina Collard rewrote her resume summary. And in the end, got the attention of a prestigious software development company.

2 PhD resume summary examples

Dr. Collard may have spent too much time in the lab, as her Ph.D. resume summary just lists what courses she took and her thesis statement.

No results, no outcomes.

In the end, she did decide to include some soft skills and passions, but without actually pointing out the “why” behind her work. This doesn’t make sense at all.

Here’s what her modified resume summary looked like in the end:

This summary works for one simple reason: it qualifies the achievements.

Dr. Collard has noted that within the past 6 years, she has been specializing in the job advert keywords “robotics” and “mechatronics”. The award is also a nice touch to paint the big picture of her experience.

Dr. Collard is apt at achieving results within a dynamic environment. That includes various professionals from different backgrounds.

When talking about her thesis, she goes on to show her familiarity with the process.

Editing Dr. Collard’s summary may seem just like one small step for her, but it’s actually a giant leap to securing an interview.

Making your Ph.D. resume experience section stand out for all the right reasons

When listing their experience section, most Ph.D. graduates are probably making the same mistakes.

The first one: leaving out your academic practice, thinking that recruiters only want to see work experience.

That's not true at all.

Your education would not only prove your technical capabilities, but also your soft skills. But, more on that in the following paragraphs.

The second error: those tricky job titles.

You'd find 1000+ resumes, listing each experience using the given academic titles; e.g. Professor, Lecturer, Post Doctorate Student, Graduate Student, etc.

Robotic vs personalized approach: 1:0.

The ATS, reviewing your resume, is set to recognize keywords that are vital for the job. The faster those appear at the top of your experience, the better.

Instead of listing that you used to be a "Lecturer at XYZ University", go with "Data Science and Machine Learning Lecturer at XYZ University".

Third slip-up: those tricky experience bullets.

Some Ph.D. graduates just list all their courses, research, and publications.

This isn't the way to go.

You should rather align your knowledge with the job description to prove tangible results.

A couple of questions to help:

• What did this course help me learn and achieve that could be applicable to the job I'm applying for?
• How did leading lectures help me to cooperate better within the learning environment?
• What grants did my publications secure for the educational institute?
• What effects did my research have on the big-picture subjects within the field?
• The more you can get into the actuality (and practicality) of your education, the higher your chances are to get your first interview booked.

Let’s look at an example of how your experience can be showcased within your resume as crucial for the job.

PhD resume experience examples.

• • Got PhD in Philosophy
• • Took Philosophy of Mind, Brain, and Behavior Course
• • Took Ethics Course
• • Wrote Diploma on ‘To Be Or Not To Be: The Ethics of The Human Existence In The 21st Century’

This experience section is pretty negligent and robotic. Did you just get a diploma during those three-plus years?

You may be exiting from a leading higher education institution, but putting in the extra effort to your resume shows that you are diligent.

And that you’re actually invested in getting that particular job.

• • Contributed 60+ publications to the university scientific journal, niching within human rights, ethics, and the big why of human existence
• • Peer-reviewed publications for 12+ philosophy colleagues and professionals with a focus on consistency and validity of the thesis
• • Collaborated with 10+ professionals from arts, science, and biotech fields to question and understand the ethics behind their projects
• • Apart from the scientific paper for my final thesis, entitled 'To Be Or Not To Be: The Ethics of The Human Existence In The 21st Century’, published a short video on the university website to help inspire young professionals of philosophy to always stay alert

There’s no ground for comparison between the two examples. But let’s look at some of the basics.

The first experience bullet hints that the professional can write technical papers for their niche.

Next, the candidate showcases an eye for detail, collaboration, and teamwork.

Finally, they have found a way to get their thesis submitted on time and also make it more understandable.

On a side note - did you notice how a better job title could be a complete game-changer?

One bonus tip on better systematizing your Ph.D. experience

General practice is that you'd create one single resume experience section.

But what if while writing your Ph.D. resume, you realize that in the past six years, all your experience is for the same institution?

Here's an idea to spice up your experience section. You can create a couple of experience sections, based on functionality.

Thus highlighting job advert keywords and, at the same time, including more details.

So you could have some of the following headers, under which you could classify your work:

• Research Experience
• Technical Experience
• Analytical Experience
• Leadership Experience
• Mentorship Experience
• Teamwork Experience
• Higher Education Experience

Feel free to align your transferable skills, which would be beneficial for the job you're applying for.

How should you include your degrees within your Ph.D. resume education section?

Here's the advice you've probably been waiting for; introducing…

… "How to write about your degree without sounding like a snob?"

And there are two possible scenarios at play.

The first is that you're applying for a job related to your area of study.

You should list your Ph.D. degree in detail, including research topics, method expertise, and publications.

As you're writing for non-specialized audiences, don't go overboard with the complex terms. Instead, weave keywords from the job requirements within your education section.

In the second case scenario, you're applying for a job that has nothing to do with your degree.

Keep your education section plain and simple with your degree, university/college, dates, and location.

Either way, remember to always list all of your degrees in chronological order, starting with the latest.

This isn't just some made-up rule or HR caprice. Your resume education helps recruiters determine if:

• Your basic training and knowledge would fit the job
• You stayed focused on your coursework and graduated on time
• You would be a good fit for the team. Some companies tend to hire graduates from the same university

Ph.D. in progress: Should you include your potential degree on your resume?

Being transparent on your Ph.D. resume is what builds that fantastic initial relationship with the company you're applying for.

Thus, you have to be very clear and precise, especially in your education section.

If you're still pursuing your Ph.D. degree, shift the focus from the future to what you've achieved so far.

Your education section could answer any of the following questions:

• How applicable your degree is to the job opening?
• Which of the courses you've completed would help the company grow?
• Is your education a stepping stone within your professional experience?
• What is your expected graduation date?

Being on the course to completing your Ph.D. is definitely commendable, but sometimes life happens. And you may be forced to drop out of your Ph.D. education.

Should you then list the degree you didn't complete?

The answer is 100% yes, as your Ph.D.:

• fills gaps within your professional experience
• is valuable experience
• has helped you gain new knowledge

Making it clear to recruiters that your degree is "Incomplete" or that you "Didn't Graduate" is very important.

List your degree, dates, university/college, and status.

If you get to the interview stage, recruiters will ask you why you dropped out. Be prepared to talk about why it wasn't the best option for your career at the time, or hint at the circumstances.

Even if it's hard to believe, HR managers are people - just like you and me - and they are able to show understanding and compassion.

Ph.D. resume: Is there a dream skill set your potential employers would like to see?

Recruiters review your resume to see how your experience aligns with the role, with a big focus on transferrable skills.

Or in other words, what else can you bring to the table to help the business or institution grow?

And transferable skills can be both hard (or technical ) and soft skills .

Your hard skills include the technology you used to complete your studies.

Consider the opportunities you've has to:

• test and measure antennas parameters in an Anechoic chamber
• audit in a lab environment renewable energy sources' efficiency
• develop software, using Python, to patch cybersecurity risks

The list can go and on and on. Your Ph.D. has probably provided you with a pretty solid technical background.

When writing your resume’s separate technical skills section, ever wonder which technology should go first?

Rule of thumb: align the technology within the job description with your expertise.

The more proficient you are at a certain skill, the sooner you should list it.

Wondering what some of the most popular Ph.D. resume hard and technical skills are?

Check out our list, based on some of the most popular industries.

PhD resume technical skills for various roles:

15 hard skills for opportunities in business consulting:

• Knowledge of different business-crucial frameworks, including Benchmarking, Balanced Scorecard, Porter’s Five Forces, The GE-McKinsey Nine-Box Matrix, The BCG Growth-Share Matrix, Core Competencies
• Data Management and Analysis
• Advanced Data Modelling
• Strategy, Planning and Implementation
• Assessing and Managing Risk Using Frameworks
• Statistics and Understanding Correlations
• CRMs: Salesforce, Zendesk, Bitrix24, etc.
• Lead Generation Software: Zendesk Sell, Pipedrive, HubSpot, etc.
• Project Management Software: Jira, Hive, Asana, etc.
• Employer and Customer Satisfaction Surveys
• Proposal Writing
• Scheduling Software: Calendly, Google Calendar, Doodle, etc.
• Revenue Optimization and Sales

15 technical skills for biology, biotech, biochemistry, and medical research:

• Design, conduct, and analyze scientific research
• Tissue Culture
• PCR (Polymerase Chain Reaction)
• Gel Electrophoresis
• Western Blot
• Molecular (Gene) Cloning and various techniques
• Flow Cytometry
• Mass Spectrometry
• Confocal Microscopy
• Cell-Based Assays
• Radioimmunoassays
• Data Analysis in biotechnology, bioinformatics, and medical research
• Laboratory and Equipment

15 engineering technical skills to add to your PhD resume:

• Manufacturing: Forging, Welding, Assembling, etc.
• Quality Control
• Industrial /System Design and Analysis
• Conceptual, Logical, or Physical Data Modeling
• AI and/ or Machine Learning
• Design Tools: AutoCAD, SolidWork, 3dsMax, etc.
• Programming Languages: C++, Python, Java, etc.
• Equipment Diagnosis
• Project Management: Trello, Zoho, Microsoft Project, etc.
• Data Analysis Software: Microsoft Power BI, Tableau, Qlik Sense, etc.
• CNC Programming
• Advanced Physics
• Structural Analysis
• Nanotechnology

15 recommended computer science technologies:

• Programming languages: C++, PHP, Swift, etc.
• Software engineering and development: Atom, GitHub, Chrome DevTools. etc.
• Cloud Platforms
• Data migration and deployment
• Application Programming Interfaces (APIs)
• Integrated Environments Management
• Network Maintenance
• Cybersecurity
• Machine learning AI
• Business Intelligence and Statistical Analysis Tools
• SQL Consoles
• SAS Development and Forecasting
• Data Modelling Tools: ER/Studio, Archi, Ludichart, etc.
• Automation Tools

15 academic and research technical skills:

• Technical Literacy
• Presentation and visual: Tableau, Prezi, PPT, etc.
• Learning platforms: Moodle, Classroom, Teams, etc.
• Surveys: Google Forms, MailChimp, Kahoot, etc.
• Data-Processing Software: SPSS, RStudio, NVivo, etc.
• Academic Networks: Google Scholar, Academia.edu., ResearchGate, etc.
• Academic Research and Technical Writing
• Email Writing
• Data and Information Analysis
• Copyright and License
• Videoconferencing: Zoom, Teams, Google Meet, etc.
• Applications for Securing Grants and Funding
• Peer Reviews and Co-Writing Interdisciplinary Technical Papers

Moving on to your PhD resume soft skills

There's still no precise formula for how soft skills are gained and applied in the workplace.

How many times have you seen an advert that requires "a can-do attitude and teamwork"?

Yet soft skills are on all recruiters' must-have checklists.

In the case of Ph.D. applicants, these transferable skills are built thanks to all the healthy habits you've maintained through your education, including your:

• collaboration
• ability to meet deadlines

Soft skills hint to recruiters more about your character and style of work.

Here are some ideas as to which ones you can include within your resume:

37 PhD soft skills to spice up your resume:

• Critical / Logical Thinking
• Problem-Solving
• Time Management
• Brainstorming
• Creativity and Innovation
• Meeting Deadlines
• Working Under Pressure
• Negotiation
• Project Management
• Organization
• Prioritization
• Flexibility
• Independent Work
• Ethical Decision-Making
• Leadership or Mentorship
• Collaboration
• Teaching or Lecturing
• Conduct Meetings
• Supervision
• Feedback and Evaluation
• Motivating Others
• Communicating Ideas
• Presentation
• Constructive Debating
• Leading or Participating in Group Discussions
• Public Speaking
• Accelerated Learning
• Attention to Detail
• Writing Proficiency
• Quantitative Literacy
• Listening and Reflection

When describing your leadership or mentorship soft skills, here are a couple of questions you could answer within your resume to qualify your achievements:

• What actions did you take to maintain a constant and successful team dynamic?

Mix in extracurricular certificates

Back in the day, you earned a couple of extracurricular certificates and wondering if you should include those on your Ph.D. resume.

Again, it's a matter of analyzing how necessary your certification is for the job.

E.g. if AICPA's CPA certificate is listed as obligatory within the job description - and you have earned yours - you know what to do.

Certificates show that you're willing to put in the extra effort to stay relevant. Proving that you're committed, flexible, and a life-long learner.

So, think about the relevancy the certificate would have within your field.

Then, consider including some of these popular certificates:

Top 50 PhD certificates from various institutions for your resume:

• Association of Clinical Research Professionals (ACRP) - Certified Professional
• ACRP - Clinical Research Associate Certification
• ACRP - Clinical Research Coordinator Certification
• American Health Information Management Association - Coding Specialist Physician-Based Certification
• Nationally Registered Certified Patient Care Technician
• National Healthcare Association (NHA) - EKG Technician Certification
• NHA - Phlebotomy Technician Certification
• NHA - Clinical Medical Assistant Certification
• American Association of Medical Assistants - Medical Assistant Certification
• Red Cross - Nursing Assistant Certification
• Behavior Analyst Certification Board, Inc. - Registered Behavior Technician
• American Association of Professional Coders - Certified Professional Coder
• Pharmacy Technician Certification Board - Certified Pharmacy Technician
• Society for Clinical Data Management - Clinical Data Manager
• American Medical Writers Association - Medical Writer Certified
• Board of Editors in Life Science - Board-Certified Editor in Life Science
• International Society for Medical Publication Professionals - Certified Medical Publication Professional
• Regulatory Affairs Professional Society - Regulatory Affairs Certification
• Google Project Management Professional
• Society of ​​Petroleum Engineers - Petroleum Engineering Certification
• American Institute of Chemists - National Certification Commission in Chemistry and Chemical Engineering Certification
• Coursera - Software Engineering MasterTrack Certificate
• Cisco Certified Network Professional in Service Provider Operations
• CompTIA Security+ Certification
• (ISC)² Certified Information Systems Security Professional
• American Society for Quality (ASQ) - Quality Engineer Certification
• ASQ - Reliability Engineer Certification
• Advanced Certificate Program in CFD-Aircraft Aerodynamics
• Engineer in Training License and Certification
• Society of Broadcast Engineers - Certified Audio Engineer
• Association of Technology, Management, and Applied Engineering - Certified Technical Professional
• International Council on Systems Engineering - Systems Engineering Professional Certification
• American Academy of Project Management - Certified Planning Engineer
• Heating, Ventilation, and Air Conditioning Master Specialist Certificate
• iNARTE Electromagnetic Compatibility Designer Engineer Certificate
• American Academy of Environmental Engineers and Scientists - Board Certified Environmental Engineer
• American Public Power Association - Key Accounts Certificate Program
• Global Association of Quality Management - Certified Agile Developer
• Environmental Protection Agency - Operator Certification Program Management
• Institute of Management Accountants - Certified Management Accountant
• National Association of Certified Public Bookkeepers - Certified Bookkeeper
• Association of International Certified Professional Accountants - Certified Public Accountant
• Chartered Financial Analyst Institute - Chartered Financial Analyst
• Internal Revenue Service - Enrolled Agent
• The Institute of Internal Auditors - Certified Internal Auditor
• Association of Certified Fraud Examiners - Certified Fraud Examiner
• National Association of Sales Professionals - Certified Professional Sales Person
• Institutes of Management Consulting - Certified Management Consultant

PhD resume: let’s get creative with a few more resume sections

When completing your Ph.D. resume, you should always find ways to stand out from the crowd.

That’s why we’ve compiled for you some of the most popular sections which you could add to your resume.

Before doing so, always question each section's relevance to the job you're applying for.

• Publications or Projects - focus on topic, methodology, and impact; include your grant ID code, if your research won any funding
• Academic Awards - once more, consider if those would shine a better light on your expertise
• Conference Presentations - this would showcase your public speaking abilities
• Language Skills - be honest when listing your language proficiency

One final word of warning - your Ph.D. resume offers limited space to showcase your expertise, so try to make the most out of it.

key takeaways

• The extra effort to align your Ph.D. skills with the job you're applying for always gets recruiters' attention.
• Include as many relevant keywords within the header and summary of your Ph.D. resume.
• Have separate sections, detailing how your academic background has helped you attain experience, skills, and certifications.
• List chronologically all degrees you've earned through your education, with an adaptable approach to details.
• Remember that the recruiters or the ATS assessing your resume may not be that scientifically literate. Substitute complex terminology with impact and results.

Looking to build your own PhD resume?

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5 PhD Resume Examples Made to Work for 2024

• PhD Student Resumes by Type
• PhD Student Resumes by Role
• Write Your PhD Resume

With the role of a PhD student, you’re the intellectual powerhouse driving groundbreaking research and contributing to the advancement of knowledge. Your expertise allows you to dive deep into complex subjects, developing innovative solutions and pushing the boundaries of what’s already known. 

At the same time, you’ll need to balance your responsibilities as a teacher as well, imparting your knowledge to the undergraduates at your institution. Crafting a resume and creating a cover letter that demonstrate your ability to shine in this diverse role is no easy task.

Luckily, we’re here to guide you through the maze of showcasing your academic journey. With our varied PhD application resume examples , you’ll find the ideal resume template to help you craft your own winning resume in no time.

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Why this resume works

• Thankfully, Liam does a great job highlighting his internship and project achievements and how both are applicable in helping sustainably improve production.

PhD Student Resume

• One strategy you can use to boost the chances of your PhD student resume to clinch an enrolment slot into the health sciences department is by harnessing the achievements from a volunteer project that brought screening services to a marginalized community.

PhD Application Resume

• Therefore, achievements in increasing student participation and engagement accompanied by metrics in improved grades and assessment scores would go a long way to prop your suitability.

Engineering PhD Resume

• Hence, including it in your engineering PhD resume will do wonders and show that you’re a state-approved individual who knows what they’re doing. Employers will almost always prefer a licensed professional over an unlicensed one.

PhD Scientist Resume

• That’s where you’re going to include some numbers to add readability to your PhD scientist resume. Now, don’t be random and use metrics for impactful bullet points like decreasing experimental errors or analyzing a large number of samples.

Related resume examples

• Research Assistant

Adapt Your PhD Resume to the School You’re Applying to

As an aspiring PhD student, your resume is your scholarly calling card, showcasing the intellectual artillery you bring to the academic battlefield. 

This is where you can showcase your skills and express why you’re the right person to join the program. To do this, tailor your skills section to align with the specific requirements of your desired program and department. 

Highlight your expertise in research methodologies, statistical analysis, and any specialized software or equipment you’ve mastered. For the more technically inclined, don’t shy away from showcasing hard skills like Python, Matlab, Java, or Tableau.

You can also include a couple of soft skills because they’re essential for giving lectures and mentoring students. Just remember to reinforce them with demonstrable examples in the experience section later. 

Want some pointers?

15 top PhD skills

• Microsoft Office
• Google Sheets
• Research Methodologies 
• Academic Writing
• Public Speaking
• Lesson Planning
• Grant Proposals
• Grading Essays
• Collaborative Research

Your PhD work experience bullet points

From conducting groundbreaking research to publishing papers, your journey as an academic is about more than just the day-to-day grind. In the experience section of your resume, the real spotlight should be on your transformative contributions. 

If this isn’t your first PhD, highlight achievements from your previous studies like securing research grants, publishing impactful papers, or successfully leading research projects. If you’re moving up from postgraduate studies, highlight the best and most impressive accomplishments from your master’s and bachelor’s degrees. 

Add some numbers to make your accomplishments pop. This could be the number of students mentored, successful experiments and research projects, or the reach of your published work. 

• Highlight the number of your articles or research papers that were published in reputable journals.
• Quantify the success of research projects with metrics such as project scope, budget management, or studies carried out.
• Demonstrate your ability to secure research funding by specifying the number and value of grants obtained.
• Showcase your impact as a mentor or tutor by talking about the number of students you’ve guided or the way they were able to improve their grades through your help.

See what we mean?

• Created engaging course materials using Articulate Storyline, resulting in a 39% increase in student engagement and comprehension
• Managed EHR software to document patient assessments, vital signs, and medication administration, maintaining 99.99% accuracy in recordkeeping
• Partnered with farmers to develop customized crop management plans, resulting in a 31% increase in yields
• Assisted in the development and implementation of assessments, leading to a 33% reduction in student dropout rates

9 active verbs to start your PhD work experience bullet points

• Innovated 
• Collaborated

3 Tips for Writing a PhD Resume With Little Prior Experience

• Mention your involvement in conferences and workshops. This will showcase your ability to engage with and contribute to the broader scholarly community.
• Echo your passion for knowledge throughout your resume, and look into the future. Outline your career objectives , illustrating your commitment to making a lasting impact through your PhD studies.
• Any and all academic achievements look great on a PhD resume, so make sure to add them. Talk about your GPA, awards won, or competitions you’ve participated in to show your drive as a college student.

3 Tips for Writing a PhD Resume for Your Second PhD

• Research is often independent, and academics are sometimes considered lone wolves. That’s why it’s important to emphasize your leadership and collaboration skills explicitly. The school needs to know you can mentor students and collaborate with other colleagues effectively—so turn up the enthusiasm for this area!
• If you’re going for a research role, it’s essential to be at the forefront of your field—following all the latest papers and studies. You can show this by mentioning your participation in research initiatives or the conferences you like to attend. 
• Show that you put just as much effort into your students as you put into your research by sharing student performance and engagement metrics. You can also discuss your favorite lecture and seminar-planning techniques to convey your passion and commitment. 

Absolutely! While not mandatory, a tailored career summary can be a powerful tool. Customize it for the PhD position, mentioning the specific program and academic role. Don’t forget to highlight things like research methodologies, data analysis, and any unique contributions to your academic field.

Choose a clean and professional format that prioritizes your academic achievements and research experience. Use clear headings, bullet points, and a consistent structure, much like you would in a research paper. 

Include skills that align with the specific requirements of the PhD program and your academic discipline. Highlight technical and soft skills relevant to research, teaching, fieldwork, and collaboration.

How to Write A Great PhD Resume (With a Template)

We share tips on how write an excellent PhD resume, as well as a free PhD CV example.

• Student Tips

Page Content

✨ 5-second summary.

• Understand your audience and highlight relevant academic and professional history accordingly.
• Use a professional layout, concise language, bullet points for achievements, clear headings, and consistent presentation.
• Customize your resume for each application, balance academic achievements with transferable skills, ensure clarity and conciseness, quantify achievements, and avoid using graphical skill assessments to prevent misinterpretation of your capabilities.

Unlike a traditional resume, a PhD resume must showcase an individual's scholarly credentials, research acumen, and potential for academic contribution. With the right approach, your resume can open doors to prestigious fellowships, research assistant positions, and esteemed academic roles.

That said, many people dread having to put together a document like this because it can be overwhelming. Read on to learn how to write an excellent PhD resume without losing your mind!

Ready to start applying for PhD programs?

Browse phd programs worldwide, understand who you're writing the phd resume for.

Before you begin writing your PhD resume, it's essential to understand who will be reading it. Your audience may be one of the following:

• Admissions committees comprised of faculty members from the department you're applying to
• Research supervisors or principal investigators (PIs) if you're applying for a research position, such as a research assistantship or a postdoctoral role
• Funding bodies and scholarship panels if you're applying for scholarships, grants, or other forms of funding
• Human resources (HR) in academic institutions for roles that are more administrative or if the application process is managed through the university's HR department
• Conference organizers and journal editors if you're submitting an abstract for a conference presentation or a manuscript for publication
• Industry professionals like hiring managers, team leaders or department heads

Your PhD resume needs to resonate with the relevant audience. This means that you should highlight different aspects of your academic and professional history depending on who you're writing for.

For example:

• If you're applying for a PhD program, you should highlight your academic and research achievements, as well as any fundraising experience.
• If you're looking for an industry job, make sure to show how your knowledge and experience has helped solve real-world problems in the industry of the company you're applying for.

How to format and structure your PhD resume

Creating a PhD resume that effectively showcases your academic accomplishments, research experience, and relevant skills is crucial for advancing your career, whether in academia or industry.

Below are formatting and structuring tips to ensure your PhD resume stands out.

Formatting tips

Keep it professional

Use a clean, professional layout with a standard font like Times New Roman, Arial, or Calibri, sized between 10 and 12 points. Maintain uniform margins around the document.

Limit your resume to 1-2 pages if you're applying for industry roles.

An academic CV for faculty or research positions can be longer to include comprehensive details of your academic achievements.

Use bullet points

Break up text and highlight specific achievements using bullet points, making the resume easier to skim.

Include clear headings

Use bold or slightly larger font sizes for section headings such as Education, Research Experience, Publications, Teaching Experience and others to organize your resume logically.

Avoid including irrelevant information like your hobbies or interests, unless they're directly related to the industry or research areas of the company or institution you're applying for.

Stay consistent

Ensure consistency in how you present information. For example, if you start listing dates on the right side of the page, continue this format throughout.

What to include in your PhD resume

Header: Your name and contact information, including your email address, phone number, and LinkedIn profile or personal website/portfolio if applicable.

Summary: Briefly summarize your qualifications and why you're applying to that company/program.

Education: List your degrees in reverse chronological order . Include the institution, location, degree, and date of completion or expected completion.

Research experience: Detail your research projects, lab experience, and any significant findings. Mention the institution, your role, and a brief description of your contributions and outcomes.

Publications and presentations: Include a list of your published work and presentations at conferences.

Teaching experience: If applicable, list teaching positions, courses taught, and any innovations you introduced or teaching accolades you received.

• Highlight technical skills (e.g., laboratory techniques, programming languages, statistical software) and soft skills (e.g., leadership, project management) relevant to the position you're applying for.
• Don't include obvious things like time management, critical skills, teamwork and Microsoft Word - everyone already expects you to have those.

Awards and honors: List scholarships, grants, and other recognitions that underscore your academic excellence and research potential.

References: While not always necessary to include in the resume, be prepared to provide references if requested.

PhD resume example / PhD CV example

Below is a free PhD CV example you can use in your own application.

Common PhD resume mistakes

Here are the 4 most common PhD resume mistake s to avoid:

1. Not tailoring for the specific role or program

Mistake: Using a one-size-fits-all resume for every application.

Solution: Customize your resume for each position or program to highlight the experiences and skills most relevant to the specific role or academic opportunity. Research the institution or company and the role to understand what they value most in candidates.

2. Only focusing on academic achievements at the expense of transferable skills

Mistake: Concentrating solely on academic accomplishments, such as publications and conferences, without emphasizing skills that are transferable to non-academic settings.

Solution: While academic achievements are important, also showcase soft skills (like leadership, teamwork, and communication) and technical skills (like data analysis, programming languages, or laboratory techniques) that demonstrate your versatility and readiness for diverse roles.

3. Neglecting the importance of clarity and conciseness

Mistake: Submitting overly long resumes filled with jargon and unnecessary detail that obscure key information.

Solution: Keep your resume clear and concise. Use layman's terms to explain research projects and achievements so that non-specialists can understand your work's significance. Aim for a two-page maximum for industry roles, but academic CVs can be longer to comprehensively cover your academic career.

4. Failing to quantify achievements

Mistake: Listing duties and responsibilities without providing concrete outcomes or quantifying achievements.

Solution: Wherever possible, quantify your achievements with metrics, such as the number of people trained, the amount of funding secured, or the impact factor of journals where your work was published. This provides tangible evidence of your contributions and capabilities.

Don't use graphs to showcase your skill level

Lots of modern resume templates include stars, percentage graphs, progression lines like the ones here:

While wanting to make your PhD resume more visually appealing, these could ruin your chance to be accepted at a company or institution you're applying for.

There are two main reasons why these kinds of graphs could work against you:

• The same "skill percentage" means different things to different people. What you consider 50% of JavaScript knowledge could very well be 75% or even 80% to the person looking at your application.
• You don't always need to know 100% of a software/skill to do well in a role. If you add these graphs, you're indirectly communicating a lack of confidence in your ability.

SOLUTION : What you should do instead is simply list the skill on your resume, and you can always elaborate on your exact skill level later in the application or interview process.

A PhD resume differs from a standard resume in that it needs to highlight one's academic achievements, research capabilities, and capacity for scholarly contributions.

With a strategic approach, your resume can pave the way to distinguished fellowships, research assistant roles, and respected positions in academia.

• Writing the Perfect Personal Statement for your PhD Application
• How Many Grad Schools Should I Apply To?

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The Keystone Team is comprised of experienced educators and advisors dedicated to providing valuable resources and advice to students all over the world.

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• Career Blog

How to List Education on a Resume: 30 Examples & Tips

In today’s competitive job market, having a strong education section on your resume can be a game-changer. Highlighting your educational achievements not only demonstrates your knowledge and expertise but also showcases your commitment and dedication towards personal growth and career development.

The ultimate purpose of this article is to guide job seekers in presenting their education credentials effectively on their resumes. Through a comprehensive compilation of 30+ real-life examples and practical tips, this piece aims to help applicants in crafting a compelling education section that will impress hiring managers and land them their dream job.

Whether you’re a recent graduate, a mid-career professional, or a seasoned executive, this article provides valuable insights and actionable advice that are proven to enhance your resume and increase your chances of getting hired. So, stay with us, and be ready to learn how to shine a spotlight on your educational background and leverage it for your next career move!

The Basics of Education on a Resume

When it comes to creating a winning resume, the education section plays a significant role. This section is particularly important for recent graduates or those looking to change careers. Employers want to see that you have the skills and knowledge necessary to perform the job, and education serves as a reliable indicator of this.

Importance of Education Section

The education section is often used as a method of filtering out candidates. Employers want to see a clear progression of your academic qualifications, as this demonstrates a commitment to learning and personal development. Failure to include this section can result in your resume being discarded without further consideration.

How to Format Education Section

The education section should be listed in reverse chronological order with your most recent qualification first. This format makes it easier for employers to see your academic progress and the relevance of your education to the current job position.

Format for education section:

What to Include in Education Section

The education section should include the following:

Degree: State the degree you obtained or are currently in the progress of obtaining, for example, Bachelor of Science (BSc), Master of Arts (MA).

Major: Indicate the field of study in which you took most of your academic courses, for example, Business Administration, Mechanical Engineering.

University: Mention the institute or university from which you earned your degree.

Graduation Date: Include the date of your graduation or expected graduation date if you are still pursuing your education.

What Not to Include in Education Section

There are specific details that you should avoid including in the education section that may work against you. Some of them are:

GPA: Unless you have recently graduated and have a high GPA, it is best to leave this information off your resume.

High School Diploma: Unless you have no higher education or in junior level, don’t include high school education.

Coursework: Unless it is directly related to the position you are applying for, it is not relevant to list your coursework.

The education section is your chance to show your credentials and qualifications to your potential employers. Ensure that your education section is properly formatted and reflects your academic achievements clearly. By following the above guidelines, you can present your educational background in a professional and impressive way.

Where to Place Education on a Resume

When it comes to listing your education on a resume, the placement can be just as important as the information itself. Here are some of the best options for where to place your education section:

At the top of the resume : If you are a recent graduate or your education is directly related to the job you are applying for, placing your education section at the top of your resume can help to draw attention to your qualifications.

After your work experience : If you have several years of relevant work experience, placing your education section after your work experience section can help to showcase your skills and experience first.

In a separate section : You can also create a separate section for your education, which can be especially helpful if you have multiple degrees or certifications. This can also help to make it easy for recruiters to find your education information quickly.

Tips for selecting placement options:

Consider the job requirements : When deciding where to place your education section, consider the job requirements and whether your education is a significant factor in the hiring decision.

Highlight your strengths : If your education is a strong selling point for you, make sure to highlight it in a prominent position on your resume.

Keep it concise : While it’s important to include your education information, don’t overdo it. Keep your education section concise and relevant to the job you are applying for.

How to make your education section stand out:

Include relevant coursework : If you have coursework that is relevant to the job you are applying for, make sure to include it in your education section.

Highlight any honors or awards : If you received any honors or awards during your education, make sure to showcase them in your education section.

Quantify your accomplishments : If you have any accomplishments from your education, such as publishing a research paper or completing a thesis, try to quantify them with specific numbers or details.

The placement and presentation of your education on your resume can play a significant role in your job search. By carefully selecting the placement and making your education section stand out, you can increase your chances of landing your dream job.

Listing High School Education on a Resume

When it comes to including high school education on a resume, it’s important to understand that it’s typically not necessary for most job positions. However, if you are early in your career or lacking in higher-level education, you may want to include it. Here are some tips for including high school education on your resume:

How to Include High School Education on Resume

• Start with your most recent education and work backwards. List your high school education at the bottom of your education section, following any college or vocational training you may have completed.
• Be concise. Simply list your high school name, location, and the year you graduated.
• Highlight any academic achievements or honors. If you received any academic awards or honors during your high school education, include those on your resume.
• Limit the amount of detail. Unlike college education, high school education does not require a lot of detail. Keep it brief and to-the-point.

Tricks to Make High School Education More Professional

If you are concerned about how including high school education on your resume may come across, here are some tricks to make it more professional:

• Use your high school education to show transferable skills. Even if the education itself may not be relevant to the job, there may be skills you learned during that time that are transferable to the job you are applying for. For example, if you were heavily involved in a sport during high school, you may have developed leadership and teamwork skills that are applicable to many job positions. Highlight these skills on your resume.
• Show continuous learning. If you have not pursued higher education, but have taken classes, workshops, or courses since high school, include them on your resume. This shows that you have a commitment to continuous learning and professional development.
• Focus on your experiences outside of education. If you are concerned about how your high school education will be perceived, focus on highlighting experiences outside of education. If you participated in clubs, sports teams, or community organizations during your high school years, include them on your resume. These experiences can demonstrate important soft skills such as leadership, communication, and teamwork.

By following these tips for including high school education on your resume, it can help you present yourself in the best possible light to potential employers. Remember, the most important thing is to demonstrate your unique skills, experiences, and qualifications in a way that will make you stand out from other candidates.

How to List Bachelor’s Degree on a Resume

When it comes to listing your Bachelor’s degree on your resume, there are a few techniques that can help you highlight this accomplishment and make it stand out to potential employers.

Techniques to Highlight Bachelor’s Degree on Resume

Use a clear and concise format:  When listing your Bachelor’s degree, make sure it is easy to find and read. Use a straightforward format that includes the name of your degree, the name of the institution where you earned it, and the date of graduation.

Include relevant coursework and honors:  If you completed coursework or received any honors related to your Bachelor’s degree, be sure to include them on your resume. This can help demonstrate your knowledge and expertise in a particular area.

Emphasize relevant skills and experiences:  Instead of simply listing your degree, try to tie it in with your relevant skills and experiences. For example, if you majored in marketing, make sure to highlight any marketing-related projects or experiences you’ve had.

Quantify your achievements:  Whether it’s a high GPA, a specific project you worked on, or an award you received, try to quantify your achievements related to your Bachelor’s degree. This can help make it stand out and demonstrate your accomplishments.

Sample Sections to List Bachelor’s Degree

Education section:  This is the most common section to list your Bachelor’s degree. Simply include the name of your degree, the name of the institution, and the date of graduation.

Skills section:  If your Bachelor’s degree is relevant to your desired job, you can include it in your skills section to emphasize your expertise.

Experience section:  If you completed any related coursework or had relevant experiences while earning your Bachelor’s degree, you can list them under the appropriate job or experience in your experience section.

Example of Listing Bachelor’s Degree in a Different Format

Degree: Bachelor of Science in Computer Science Institution: XYZ University, City, State Graduation: May 2022

• Proficient in programming languages such as Java, C++, and Python
• Strong understanding of algorithms and data structures
• Experience with database management systems

Experience:

Software Development Intern ABC Company, City, State June 2021 – August 2021

• Developed and tested software modules for a web application using Java and HTML/CSS
• Collaborated with a team of developers to troubleshoot and debug issues
• Participated in code reviews and implemented improvements based on feedback

Coursework:

• Introduction to Computer Science
• Data Structures and Algorithms
• Database Management Systems

By presenting your Bachelor’s degree in a different format, you can highlight it as a separate section and provide more details about your skills, relevant experiences, and coursework. This alternative format allows the degree to stand out and provides a comprehensive overview of your educational background and related accomplishments.

How to List Associate’s Degree on a Resume

Strategies to highlight associate’s degree on resume.

Listing your associate’s degree on a resume requires a strategic approach. Here are some strategies you can use to highlight your associate’s degree:

• Place your associate’s degree prominently: Be sure to mention your associate’s degree in the education section of your resume. You can either add it directly under your high school diploma or create a separate section for your associate’s degree.
• Highlight your skills: Your skills are a crucial part of your resume, and you can use them to showcase your qualifications. Emphasize the skills that you gained as part of your associate’s degree program, such as critical thinking, problem-solving, and communication.
• Showcase your GPA: If you excelled in your associate’s degree program, showcase your GPA prominently on your resume. A high GPA can show potential employers that you are a diligent learner and have a strong work ethic.

Sample Sections to List Associate’s Degree

Here are some sample sections you can use to list your associate’s degree:

• Associate’s Degree in Business Administration, XYZ College, 2018-2020
• High School Diploma, ABC High School, 2014-2018

Certifications and Education

• Associate’s Degree in Accounting, XYZ College, 2018-2020
• CPA certification, 2021

Example of Listing Associate’s Degree in a Different Format

Here’s an example of how you can list your associate’s degree in a different format:

Professional Summary

As a diligent and detail-oriented professional with a background in business administration, I have gained essential skills in critical thinking, communication, and problem-solving through my associate’s degree program.

By strategically highlighting your associate’s degree, you can impress potential employers and show them that you have the skills and education necessary to succeed in your desired role.

How to List Master’s Degree on a Resume

When listing your master’s degree on your resume, it’s important to do so in a way that highlights your education and makes it easy for potential employers to see your qualifications. Here are some tips for highlighting your master’s degree on your resume:

Tips for highlighting master’s degree on resume

Start with your highest degree: When listing your education, start with your highest degree first. In most cases, this will be your master’s degree.

Be concise: You don’t need to include every detail about your master’s degree on your resume. Keep it concise and relevant to the job you’re applying for.

Use bullet points: Use bullet points to make your education section easy to scan. This will help potential employers quickly see your qualifications.

Include relevant coursework: If you took coursework that is relevant to the job you’re applying for, include it in your education section.

Sample sections to list master’s degree

Here are some sample sections to list your master’s degree on your resume:

• Master of Science in Computer Science, XYZ University, 2020
• Bachelor of Science in Mathematics, ABC University, 2018

Academic achievements

• Graduated with honors
• Recipient of the Dean’s List award

Professional development

• Completed coursework in curriculum development and instructional design
• Facilitated professional development sessions for other educators

Example of listing master’s degree in a different format

Here’s an example of how you could list your master’s degree on your resume in a different format:

Professional experience

Director of Marketing, ABC Corporation

• Led the development and execution of marketing campaigns for a leading technology company
• Managed a team of five marketing professionals
• Increased website traffic by 25% through targeted content marketing strategies

Master of Science in Marketing, XYZ University

• Coursework included: Marketing Research, Consumer Behavior, Marketing Analytics
• Recipient of the Outstanding Graduate Student award

By listing your master’s degree in the education section of your resume, you’re able to highlight your academic achievements and qualifications. However, you can also choose to list your degree in other sections of your resume, such as your professional experience section, to show how your education has prepared you for your work.

How to List PhD on a Resume

If you have earned a PhD, it is important to highlight this achievement on your resume. Here are some steps to help you effectively list your PhD:

Include your degree title: Begin by listing your degree title, such as “Doctor of Philosophy” or “PhD” after your name at the top of your resume.

Highlight your field of study: Under the education section of your resume, include the name of your university, the dates of your attendance, and your field of study.

Detail your dissertation: Highlight your dissertation topic and provide a brief summary of your research under your education section.

Emphasize your contributions: If you were actively involved in any research or publications during your PhD program, consider creating a separate section to highlight these achievements.

Here are some sample sections you could use to list your PhD on a resume:

• Doctor of Philosophy in Psychology, XYZ University, 2016-2022
• Dissertation: “The Effect of Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy on Anxiety Among Children and Adolescents”

RESEARCH EXPERIENCE

• Conducted empirical research on the effect of mindfulness-based interventions on stress levels among university students
• Published several articles in peer-reviewed journals related to social behavior and mental health in adolescence

PUBLICATIONS

• John Doe, Jane Doe, & Sam Smith. (2021). “Impacts of Social Media on Mental Health in Adolescents.” Journal of Adolescence, 87, 35-41.

If you want to highlight your PhD in a different format, consider these tips:

• Create a separate section for your education, research experience, and publications.
• Use bullet points to list your relevant achievements and responsibilities.
• Keep it concise but specific – employers want to see your accomplishments, but they don’t want to read a thesis.

Doctor of Philosophy in Social Work, XYZ University, 2014-2019

• Dissertation: “The Role of Social Support in Reducing Depression Among Adults with Chronic Illnesses”
• Conducted a mixed-methods research project on the experiences of individuals with disabilities in accessing healthcare services
• Presented research findings at several conferences and published in peer-reviewed journals
• John Doe & Jane Smith. (2019). “Barriers and facilitators to accessing mental health care among individuals with disabilities.” Journal of Social Work in Disability & Rehabilitation, 18(1), 30-40.

Listing your PhD on a resume is an essential aspect of showcasing your expertise and qualifications. By following these steps and examples, you can effectively and clearly highlight your achievements and make a positive impact on potential employers.

How to List Certifications and Licenses

When it comes to creating a resume, highlighting your education is a key component. However, it’s not just your degrees that can impress potential employers. Listing certifications and licenses you hold can also make you stand out as a qualified candidate. Here, we’ll discuss what essential certificates and licenses to list on a resume, how to format and list them properly, and provide sample sections to make your resume stand out.

Essential Certificates and Licenses

When it comes to listing certifications and licenses, there are many to choose from. However, certain certifications and licenses are more relevant to specific career paths. Here are the essential certificates and licenses that you should list on your resume based on the industry you’re in:

• Healthcare: CPR certification, BLS certification, CNA certification, RN license, AHA certification, etc.
• Education: Teaching license, administrator license, TEFL certification, etc.
• Information technology: Microsoft certifications, CompTIA certifications, Cisco certifications, etc.
• Finance: Certified Public Accountant (CPA) license, Chartered Financial Analyst (CFA) certification, etc.
• Law: Bar admission, legal secretary certification, notary public commission, etc.
• Real estate: Real estate license, certified residential specialist (CRS) certification, etc.

Formatting and Listing Certifications and Licenses

When listing certifications and licenses on your resume, it’s essential to format them properly. Here are some tips to ensure that you list them correctly:

• Place relevant certifications and licenses in an area of your resume that makes sense. If you’re in healthcare, you may want to include them under a “Certifications” header after your education section. If you’re in finance, you could list your CPA license under your “Professional Development” section.
• Always list the most recent certification or license first, followed by the less recent ones in descending order.
• If the certification or license has an expiration date, make sure to list it along with the certificate’s title, followed by the issuing institution and the date it was earned.

Sample Sections for Listing Certifications and Licenses

Now that you know the essential certificates and licenses to list and how to format them, here are some sample sections that you can use on your resume for some inspiration:

Certifications

• BLS Certification, American Red Cross, Exp. 04/2022
• Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA) Certification, State of California, Exp. 12/2023
• Advanced Cardiac Life Support (ACLS) Certification, American Heart Association, Exp. 06/2024
• Teaching License, State of New York, Exp. 06/2027
• Administrator License, State of Illinois, Exp. 06/2029

Information Technology

• CompTIA Security+ Certification, CompTIA, Exp.

How to List Relevant Coursework on a Resume

When crafting a resume, it is important to showcase all aspects of your education and relevant experiences. One way to do this is by including relevant coursework on your resume. In this section, we will discuss why including coursework on your resume can be helpful, the importance of relevant coursework, how to format it, and provide examples of sections to list relevant coursework.

Why Include Coursework on Resume

Including relevant coursework on your resume can be helpful in showcasing the skills and knowledge you have gained in your academic career. If you do not have much work experience or are applying for a job in a field that you studied in school, including coursework can show the employer that you have a solid foundation in the industry.

Importance of Relevant Coursework on Resume

Listing relevant coursework on your resume can demonstrate to the employer that you have gained valuable knowledge and experience in a particular subject area. This can be especially important if the job you are applying for requires specific skills or knowledge that you gained through your coursework. Additionally, it can show your dedication and interest in a particular field or subject.

How to Format Relevant Coursework

When formatting relevant coursework on your resume, it is important to keep it concise and relevant. You should only include coursework that is relevant to the job you are applying for, and ensure that the information is easy to read and understand. Consider highlighting the relevant coursework in a separate section, or within the education section of your resume.

Example Sections to List Relevant Coursework

Below are some examples of sections to list relevant coursework on your resume:

Education Section

Bachelor of Science in Marketing

• Marketing Research Methods
• Consumer Behavior
• Marketing Communications

Relevant Coursework Section

• Web Design and Development
• Digital Security

Including relevant coursework on your resume can be a valuable addition, especially if you are new to the workforce or transitioning to a new field. Use the tips provided to format your relevant coursework in a clear and concise way, and showcase your skills and knowledge to potential employers.

Listing Education Based on Career Level

When it comes to listing your education on a resume, it’s important to consider your career level and tailor your education section accordingly. Depending on your level of experience and the job you’re applying for, you may need to highlight different aspects of your academic background.

Tailoring Education Section to Fit Career Level

For entry-level positions, your education may be the most important section of your resume, especially if you have limited work experience. In this case, you should list your education and any relevant coursework, certifications or awards related to the job you’re applying for at the top of your resume.

If you’re a more experienced professional, your work experience will likely take center stage on your resume. However, your education can still be valuable to showcase, particularly if you completed advanced degrees or specialized training.

For senior-level positions, it’s common to list your education at the end of your resume, after you’ve highlighted your extensive work experience. At this stage of your career, employers are likely more interested in your professional achievements and leadership experience than your academic background.

Example Sections to List Education Based on Career Level

Entry-level example:.

• Bachelor of Science in Marketing, XYZ University
• Relevant Coursework: Marketing Research, Consumer Behavior, Advertising and Promotion, Digital Marketing
• Dean’s List, Fall 2018 – Spring 2021

Experienced Professional Example:

• Master of Business Administration, ABC School of Business
• Bachelor of Science in Management, XYZ University
• Relevant Coursework: Strategic Management, Operations Management, Corporate Finance, Marketing Analytics
• Certified Project Management Professional (PMP)
• Awards: Outstanding Graduate Student, ABC School of Business

Senior-Level Example:

Professional Experience

• Director of Sales, XYZ Corporation
• Vice President of Marketing, ABC Company
• Chief Revenue Officer, DEF Inc.

Education on a Functional Resume: Tips & Samples

When it comes to creating a functional resume, highlighting your education can be incredibly important. Whether you’re a recent graduate or have years of experience under your belt, your educational background can demonstrate your qualifications and expertise in your chosen field.

Importance of Education in a Functional Resume

Including your education on a functional resume can help you stand out from other job seekers. It can demonstrate that you have the necessary knowledge and skills to be successful in your desired position, and it can also show that you value ongoing learning and professional development.

When listing your education on a functional resume, be sure to include any relevant degrees, courses, certifications, or training programs that you’ve completed. This can help demonstrate your expertise and show that you’ve taken the initiative to further your education and skills.

Techniques to Highlight Education in a Functional Resume

One technique for highlighting your education on a functional resume is to create a separate “Education” section. This section should include the name of the school or institution you attended, the degree or certification you earned, and the year of completion.

When listing your education, be sure to include any relevant coursework or honors that demonstrate your expertise in your field. For example, if you’re applying for a position as a software engineer, you might include coursework in programming languages or computer science.

Another technique for highlighting your education on a functional resume is to incorporate it into your work experience section. For example, if you completed an internship or apprenticeship during your education, you might list that experience under a relevant job title.

Sample Sections to List Education in a Functional Resume

Here are a few sample sections that you might use to list your education on a functional resume:

• Bachelor of Science in Business Administration, University of XYZ, 2014-2018
• Relevant coursework: Business Law, Financial Accounting, Marketing
• Marketing Intern, ABC Company, 2017-2018 (completed as part of the Bachelor of Science in Business Administration program at the University of XYZ)
• Certified Nursing Assistant Training Program, Red Cross, 2016
• Relevant coursework: Patient Care, Infection Control, Anatomy and Physiology
• Nursing Assistant, XYZ Hospital, 2016-2018 (completed as part of the Certified Nursing Assistant Training Program at the Red Cross)

By including your education in your functional resume, you can demonstrate your qualifications, expertise, and ongoing commitment to learning and professional development. These sample sections can help you highlight your educational background in a clear and effective way.

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