Including Your Future Education on Your Resume
Are you job hunting and about to start a new degree? Wondering if you should list it on your resume? Let’s explore why and how to add your upcoming education.
Why Include Your Anticipated Degree?
Adding your future education to your resume can:
- Explain Your Relocation: Showing you’re moving for school makes sense.
- Show Ambition: It indicates commitment to your field.
- Provide Context: Clarifies your current career stage.
- Future Opportunities: Opens doors for future jobs or roles.
When to Include Upcoming Education
Listing your future degree can help or hurt:
Pros:
- Shows dedication and future potential.
- Demonstrates commitment to your field.
- Gives a clear timeline of your goals.
Cons:
- Employers might see you as “just a student.”
- Could question your immediate availability.
- Risk of lower salary offers.
How to Include It
If you decide to add your anticipated degree, follow these tips:
- Add Education Near the Top: Since you’re a student, highlight your education early.
- Clearly Mark as “Incoming”: Use terms like “Incoming Graduate Student” and “Anticipated Graduation Date.”
- Provide Relevant Dates: Mention both your start date and expected graduation date.
Example:
University of Michigan, Ann Arbor
Master of Social Work
Incoming Graduate Student, Anticipated
Graduation Date: July 2023
Here are some extra tips:
- Be clear and concise.
- Only include GPA if impressive and relevant.
- Highlight related projects or achievements.
Additional Information on Resumes
If you're still studying, show your graduation date:
Example:
University of North Florida, Jacksonville, FL
Bachelor of Science Degree, Communications/Public
Relations
GPA: 4.0
Anticipated Graduation Date: May 2024
Applying for Jobs with Expected Degrees
Mention your expected graduation in your cover letter:
Cover Letter Tip:
Currently, I'm pursuing a Master of Social Work at the University of Michigan, with an anticipated graduation date of July 2023. This aligns with my career goals and shows my commitment to social work.
Handling Interviews and Job Applications
- During the Interview: Be ready to discuss your education and how you balance work and studies. Show the benefits of your education for the role.
- On Job Applications: If an application asks, “Do you have a degree?” and you’re about to graduate, check “Yes” and make sure your resume shows the anticipated graduation date.
Conclusion
Adding your anticipated degree can help your job application by showing your ambitions and giving context. Clearly explain this in your cover letter and be ready to discuss it in interviews. This demonstrates your commitment and can open up future opportunities.