Your education is one of the most important parts of a resume, especially for students, recent graduates, and professionals building credibility in their field. However, many job seekers make mistakes when listing degrees on a resume: they include unnecessary details, use incorrect formatting, or place the education section in the wrong place.
Knowing how to list degrees on a resume correctly can significantly improve your chances of getting interviews. Recruiters typically scan resumes for only a few seconds, and a clear education section helps them quickly evaluate your qualifications. Whether you have a bachelor's degree, master's degree, multiple degrees, or are still studying, the way you present your education matters.
This comprehensive guide explains how to properly list degrees on a resume, including formatting rules, examples, common mistakes, and expert tips. You will learn how to list degrees for different situations, such as students, graduates, career changers, and professionals with multiple degrees.
If you're unsure how to structure your resume or want professional feedback, our specialists can help you optimize every section. Simply register on our website and get expert assistance with resume writing, formatting, and job application strategy.
We will also show you real examples, helpful tables, checklists, and actionable advice that will help your resume compete with top candidates.
Listing degrees on a resume means presenting your academic qualifications in a clear, professional format that recruiters can easily understand. This typically includes the degree type, major, university name, and graduation date.
Your education section helps employers evaluate whether you meet the academic requirements for a position. Some jobs require specific degrees, while others simply prefer candidates with formal education.
A standard education entry usually includes the following information:
| Element | Example |
|---|---|
| Degree | Bachelor of Science |
| Major | Computer Science |
| University | University of California |
| Graduation Year | 2023 |
Example resume entry:
Bachelor of Science in Computer Science
University of California, Los Angeles
Graduated: 2023
If you are also preparing your job application package, consider reviewing our guide on writing a cover letter with CV for a job application to strengthen your overall candidacy.
The placement of your education section depends on your professional experience. For some candidates, education is the most important qualification, while for others it plays a supporting role.
| Candidate Type | Education Section Placement |
|---|---|
| Students | Top of the resume |
| Recent graduates | Near the top |
| Experienced professionals | After work experience |
| Career changers | Top if degree is relevant |
If you're applying for internships or entry-level jobs, you might also benefit from reading our guide on a cover letter for engineering internship with no experience.
For personalized resume structure recommendations, you can always register on our website and let our specialists review your resume.
Formatting your degree correctly ensures clarity and professionalism. A well-structured education section improves readability and helps recruiters quickly find the information they need.
| Format Element | Example |
|---|---|
| Degree | Bachelor of Arts |
| Major | Marketing |
| Institution | New York University |
| Date | 2022 |
Bachelor of Arts in Marketing
New York University
Graduated: 2022
Some candidates also use online resume builders. Before choosing one, read our analysis of Zety resume cost and pricing to understand the available options.
Understanding real examples helps you format your education section more effectively.
Bachelor of Science in Business Administration
University of Texas
Graduated: 2021
Master of Science in Data Analytics
University of Chicago
Graduated: 2023
Bachelor of Arts in Psychology
University of Michigan
Expected Graduation: 2026
Students applying to specialized programs may also benefit from reviewing a music resume template for college applications.
Many professionals hold multiple degrees. The key is to present them clearly without overwhelming the recruiter.
Always list degrees in reverse chronological order, starting with the most recent.
| Degree | Institution | Year |
|---|---|---|
| Master of Business Administration | Harvard University | 2023 |
| Bachelor of Economics | University of Florida | 2020 |
Master of Business Administration
Harvard University — 2023
Bachelor of Economics
University of Florida — 2020
If you're applying to companies without a posted vacancy, consider writing a prospective application cover letter.
Students and recent graduates often rely heavily on their education section because they have limited professional experience.
Bachelor of Science in Mechanical Engineering
Georgia Institute of Technology
Expected Graduation: 2025
Our specialists regularly help students build strong resumes and education sections. You can register on our website to receive personalized career guidance.
Even strong candidates sometimes weaken their resumes with simple formatting or content errors.
If you're unsure whether your resume follows best practices, our experts can review it. Simply register on our website and get professional feedback.
A well-written education section can strengthen your professional profile and increase your chances of landing interviews.
A strong resume also includes a compelling cover letter. For example, if you are applying for leadership roles, you may find our project manager cover letter template particularly useful.
If you're unsure how to combine all resume sections effectively, our specialists can help you build a complete job application strategy. Simply register on our website to access expert guidance.
Include your GPA if it is 3.5 or higher or if the employer specifically requests it.
Only include high school if you do not have a college degree.
Mention the degree and include “Expected Graduation” or the years attended.
Yes. If the institution is accredited, online degrees should be listed the same way as traditional degrees.
List all relevant higher education degrees. Usually, two or three entries are sufficient.
Certifications can be listed either in the education section or in a separate “Certifications” section.
You can still include it but avoid emphasizing it if it is not relevant.
Yes. Our specialists regularly assist job seekers with resume writing, formatting, and job application strategies. Simply register on our website to receive expert help.