When it comes to creating a resume, it can be tricky to know what to include and how to format it properly. One common question job seekers have is what to list under the educational background section. High school graduates may wonder how to make their diploma stand out when compared to those with higher degrees. So what is a high school diploma called on a resume? Let’s dive in and explore some options.
First, it’s important to note that there’s no universal name for a high school diploma on a resume. While some people simply list “high school diploma” or “high school graduate,” others get creative with titles such as “secondary education completion” or “secondary school certification.” Your choice of wording largely depends on your personal style and the tone of the job you’re applying for.
Regardless of the specific title you choose, it’s important to present your high school diploma in a way that highlights your skills and accomplishments. For example, if you took advanced classes or received any academic honors, be sure to mention those. If you participated in extracurricular activities such as sports or clubs, that could also be worth including. By making your high school experience shine, you can demonstrate to potential employers that you’re a well-rounded candidate with valuable skills and experiences to offer.
Definition of a High School Diploma
A high school diploma is a document that certifies a student has completed their high school education. It is typically earned after four years of high school coursework and is required by most employers as a minimum education requirement. Obtaining a high school diploma signifies that a student has met the academic standards necessary to complete secondary education and has gained the knowledge and skills necessary to continue their education or enter the workforce.
Importance of including education on a resume
When it comes to creating a resume, there are a variety of components that applicants must consider in order to accurately and effectively communicate their skills and qualifications to a potential employer. One important aspect of any resume is the inclusion of education history. While some may feel that their academic background is not a crucial factor for certain job positions, there are several reasons why including education on a resume is important:
- Proof of qualifications: Including education history on a resume provides concrete evidence of an applicant’s qualifications for a position, particularly in cases where specific educational requirements are listed in the job description.
- Shows ambition and dedication: Completing a high school diploma or obtaining a college degree demonstrates an applicant’s goal-oriented mindset and level of commitment, which can be attractive qualities for employers.
- Highlights relevant coursework: For those applying for positions related to a specific field of study, listing relevant coursework can provide additional insight into an applicant’s skills and knowledge.
How to list a high school diploma on a resume
If an applicant has obtained a high school diploma, it is important to list it on their resume to provide evidence of their academic background. The simplest way to list a high school diploma is by including the following information:
High School Diploma
School name, City, State
Graduation Date
In some cases, an applicant may want to include additional information, such as their GPA or any honors or awards they received during their high school career.
How to list education beyond high school on a resume
If an applicant has obtained post-secondary education, such as a college degree or vocational training, it is important to list this education on their resume as well. When listing education beyond high school, include the following information:
| Degree Type | Field of Study | School Name | City, State | Graduation Date |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Bachelor of Science | Marketing | University of California | Los Angeles, CA | May 2021 |
Additionally, applicants may want to list any relevant coursework or projects they completed during their post-secondary education. This can provide further insight into an applicant’s skills and qualifications.
Other types of education to include on a resume
Aside from a high school diploma, there are other types of education that you can include on your resume to give your potential employer a better idea of your skills and expertise.
- College degrees: If you have a college degree, be sure to include the type of degree you earned, the name of the college or university you attended, and your major or field of study. This can be a great way to showcase any specialized knowledge or skills you have acquired.
- Certifications: If you have earned any certifications related to your field, such as a CPA or a PMP, make sure to list them on your resume. This not only shows that you have a certain level of expertise, but also that you are dedicated to your field and willing to invest in your professional development.
- Professional development: Any workshops, seminars, or training programs that you have completed can also be included on your resume. These can show that you are committed to learning and growing in your field, and may give you an edge over other candidates who haven’t pursued similar opportunities.
Another great way to showcase your education is by creating a separate section on your resume specifically for your academic and professional qualifications. This can include all of the above information, as well as any relevant coursework or research projects. For example:
| Degree/Certificate | Institution | Major/Area of Study |
|---|---|---|
| Bachelor of Arts | University of California, Los Angeles | English Literature |
| Certified Public Accountant | American Institute of CPAs | Accounting |
| Project Management Professional | Project Management Institute | Project Management |
Remember, the more education and qualifications you can showcase on your resume, the better your chances of landing a job. So be sure to include all relevant information in a clear and easy-to-read format!
How to Format Education Information on a Resume
Your education section on a resume provides hiring managers with valuable information about your background. It’s important to showcase your educational achievements in a clear and organized way. Here are some tips on how to format education information on a resume:
Tip 1: Include Relevant Education
- Only include education that is relevant to the job you are applying for. For example, if you are applying for a marketing position, it may not be necessary to list your degree in biology.
- List your highest level of education first, starting with your degree or diploma.
- Include the name of the institution, degree or diploma earned, and the year you graduated or will graduate.
Tip 2: Add Honors and Awards
If you have received any honors or awards during your education, be sure to include them in your resume. This can help you stand out from other candidates and show that you are dedicated and hardworking.
- List any academic honors such as Dean’s List or Magna Cum Laude.
- Include any awards or scholarships you have received.
Tip 3: Highlight Relevant Coursework
If you do not have much work experience or if your education is more relevant than your work history, it can be helpful to highlight relevant coursework in your education section.
- List any relevant courses you have taken that pertain to the job you are applying for.
- Include the course name and a brief description of the course content.
Tip 4: Use Bullets or Tables
To make your education section clean and easy to read, consider using either bullets or tables. This can help break up the text and make it more visually appealing.
| Institution | Degree/Diploma | Graduation Year |
|---|---|---|
| University of California, Los Angeles | Bachelor of Arts in Psychology | May 2021 |
| Stanford University | Master of Science in Computer Science | June 2024 |
In conclusion, when formatting your education section on a resume, make sure it is relevant, easy to read, and visually appealing. By following these tips, you can showcase your educational achievements and increase your chances of getting hired for the job of your dreams.
Common mistakes to avoid when listing education on a resume
Education is an essential aspect of any resume as it indicates your level of knowledge and qualification. It gives a potential employer an insight into the type of training and skills you have acquired in your academic life. However, when listing education on a resume, there are common mistakes that applicants make:
- Not highlighting relevant education: Your education section should highlight relevant training to the position you are applying for. If you have several degrees, ensure the most relevant one is listed first. For example, if you are applying for a job in marketing, your degree in marketing should come first before any other degree.
- Mentioning irrelevant details: Only include relevant details such as the name of the institution, the degree, and the study period. It is unnecessary to include your high school grade point average, minor subjects, and incomplete degrees.
- Listing your GPA: Unless you have an excellent GPA, avoid listing it on your resume. An average or low GPA can hurt your job search more than help. Instead, focus on other positive aspects of your education.
In addition to the above, there are other mistakes that you should avoid when listing education on your resume. These include:
- Listing education that is outdated or no longer relevant.
- Leaving off necessary information such as the name of the institution or the degree earned.
- Mentioning education that did not happen or exaggerating your academic achievements.
It is essential to ensure that the education section of your resume is precise, concise, and relevant to the job you are applying for. A cluttered or inaccurate education section can create a negative impression on a potential employer and hurt your chances of getting hired.
| Mistake | Why it’s a problem | How to avoid it |
|---|---|---|
| Not highlighting relevant education | Employers want to see that you have the necessary education and training for the job you’re applying for. | List your most relevant degree first and include any relevant coursework. |
| Mentioning irrelevant details | This can make your education section look cluttered and distract from your most relevant qualifications. | Only include relevant details such as the name of the institution, the degree, and the study period. |
| Listing your GPA | Unless you have an excellent GPA, listing it can hurt your job search more than help. | Avoid listing your GPA on your resume and focus on other positive aspects of your education. |
By avoiding these common mistakes, you can ensure that your education section strengthens your resume and helps you stand out from other applicants.
How Relevant is High School Education in Today’s Job Market?
When it comes to job applications and resumes, many wonder what the value of a high school diploma is in today’s job market. While some may argue that college degrees or trade certifications are more important, having a high school education is still a vital aspect for many employers.
When an employer sees that an applicant has a high school diploma, it demonstrates that they have achieved a basic level of education and have attained important skills such as communication, problem-solving, and critical thinking. However, the relevance of high school education does vary depending on the industry and job position.
- Entry-Level Jobs: While a college degree or advanced certification may not be required for entry-level positions, having a high school diploma can still give you an edge over those who do not have one. It can also open up opportunities for promotions and advancement within the company.
- Specialized Industries: Some industries, such as healthcare or finance, may require more specialized education beyond high school. However, having a high school diploma is still viewed as a valuable foundation for further education and training.
- Entrepreneurship: For those interested in starting their own business, having a high school diploma can also be beneficial. It demonstrates a level of dedication and follow-through, which are key traits for success as an entrepreneur.
Overall, while the relevance of high school education may vary for different industries and job positions, it still holds value in demonstrating basic education and skills to potential employers. It is important to always include your high school education on your resume as it can make a difference in your job search.
| PROS | CONS |
|---|---|
| – Demonstrates basic education | – Some industries may require more specialized education beyond high school |
| – Attained communication, problem-solving and critical thinking skills | – Some employers may view a high school diploma as insufficient for certain job positions |
| – Can open up opportunities for promotions and advancement within a company | – Some candidates may have more advanced education or certifications |
Ultimately, having a high school education is still a valuable achievement that can give you an advantage in the job market. It demonstrates a level of dedication and provides a strong foundation for further education and career advancement.
Alternatives to a high school diploma for education requirements on a resume
While a high school diploma is the most common education requirement on a resume, it is not the only option. Here are some alternatives to consider:
- General Educational Development (GED): This certification is equivalent to a high school diploma and is earned by passing a series of exams. It is a viable option for those who did not complete high school but have gained the necessary knowledge and skills.
- Adult High School Diploma: Adults who did not complete high school may have the opportunity to earn a diploma through an adult high school program. These programs may be offered through local schools, community colleges, or online.
- Vocational Training: If a candidate has completed vocational training in a specific field, they can highlight this on their resume as a qualification. Vocational training programs focus on hands-on learning and can provide valuable skills for the job market.
It’s important to note that some job positions may require specific certifications or licenses in addition to a high school diploma or alternative education qualification. Research the requirements of the positions you’re interested in and make sure to include all relevant qualifications on your resume.
In addition to these alternative education options, some individuals may choose to include their college education or specialized certifications on their resume. These additional qualifications can help set a candidate apart from others in the job market and show that they have invested in their education and personal development.
| Educational Option | Requirements/Description |
|---|---|
| GED | Earned by passing a series of exams; equivalent to a high school diploma |
| Adult High School Diploma | Programs offered through local schools, community colleges, or online for adults who did not complete high school |
| Vocational Training | Focuses on hands-on learning in a specific field |
Ultimately, including an alternative education qualification on your resume can benefit your job search and showcase your dedication to personal and professional growth. Just make sure to research the requirements of the job positions you’re interested in and highlight the most relevant qualifications.
FAQs: What is a High School Diploma Called on a Resume?
1. What is a high school diploma?
A high school diploma is a certificate of completion that is awarded to students who successfully complete their high school education.
2. What is a high school diploma called on a resume?
A high school diploma is typically referred to as a “high school diploma” on a resume.
3. Do I need to include my high school diploma on my resume?
Including your high school diploma on your resume is optional, but it can be a good way to demonstrate that you have completed your education.
4. Can I list my GED instead of my high school diploma?
Yes, you can list your GED (General Educational Development) certificate instead of your high school diploma if you did not complete high school but earned a GED.
5. How do I list my high school diploma on my resume?
You can include your high school diploma under the “Education” section of your resume, along with the name of your high school, graduation date, and any honors or awards you received.
6. What if I didn’t finish high school?
If you didn’t finish high school, you can still list any courses you completed or skills you learned while in high school. You can also list any vocational or trade schools you attended.
7. Should I include my GPA with my high school diploma on my resume?
Including your GPA is optional, but it can be a good way to demonstrate your academic performance. If your GPA was high, consider including it.
Closing Thoughts: Thanks for Reading!
Thanks for taking the time to learn about what is a high school diploma called on a resume. Whether you include your high school diploma on your resume or not, it’s important to showcase your education and skills to potential employers. Keep checking back for more useful tips and advice on the job search process!