The general cut-off point is typically 5 years of relevant work experience: if you have less than this, add relevant coursework to your resume; if you have more than this, only add relevant coursework if it’s hyper-specific to the job or internship. Still not sure if you should add coursework to your resume? Ask yourself if you’ll rely on talking about coursework during an interview. In other words, do you have enough relevant work experience that you won’t need to mention your coursework during an interview? If the answer is “yes,” then you typically don’t need to add coursework to your resume.
Remember: just because you’re not done with a course or degree doesn’t mean it’s irrelevant! Always list any in-progress coursework and note the planned completion date of the course or degree.
List the courses by their actual title, not their course number or some nickname: for example, “United States History to 1877,” not “U. S. History 101” or “American History I. ” This isn’t absolutely essential while brainstorming, but it makes things easier once it’s time to transfer coursework to your resume. [4] X Research source
If, for example, you’re a communications major and are applying for a social media internship, any social media communication classes you’ve taken should be considered relevant. Or, if you’re applying for an HR job and have taken courses on finance and payroll as part of your human resources major, definitely include these if the position involves areas like compensation and benefits. You may need to further cut down this list, depending on the amount of space available on your resume. [6] X Expert Source Amber LeimaResumé Consultant Expert Interview. 18 March 2022. Go ahead and start thinking about which courses are the absolute most relevant and impactful for the specific job or internship. If your coursework isn’t related to the job you’re applying for, you might run the risk of going off-topic, being irrelevant, or losing the interest of the hiring manager before you’ve even been called for an interview. [7] X Expert Source Amber LeimaResumé Consultant Expert Interview. 18 March 2022.
For example, if you are applying for a position at an aerospace engineering firm, you should list your internship at an aerospace research facility. Or, if you are applying for a social media position at a marketing company, you might list volunteer experience as the social media director at a local festival.
Suggested section title: Relevant Education and Coursework.
For example, you may have earned a degree in English, but are now studying graphic design at your local college. If you are applying for a position at a graphic design firm, list this educational experience first, before your English degree. Suggested formatting: Bachelor of Science in Genetic EngineeringBrown University, Providence, Rhode IslandExpected completion date: 05/2017
Example degree and list of 3-6 relevant courses: Bachelor of Science in Genetic EngineeringBrown University, Providence, Rhode IslandExpected completion date: 05/2017Relevant coursework: Lab Testing & Reporting, Genetic Manipulation, Social Implications of Genetic Engineering. Example of detailed coursework info (added below degree info):Advanced Studies in Marketing and AdvertisingHudson Community College, Hudson, New YorkExpected completion date: 05/2015
It’s also not necessary to list your final GPA for a degree or course, as most employers will not notice the score. But if you graduated with high honors, such as summa cum laude or with honors, make a note of this in your resume. For example: Bachelor of Science in Anthropology, Graduated with HonorsConcordia University, Montreal, QuebecRelevant Coursework: Advanced Topics in Social Anthropology, Research and Investigation, Advanced Studies in Ancient Cities.
