When to Include Incomplete Degree on a Resume?

Do you list education on resume if you did not finish the program/major?

As with almost all things "resume," the answer is “it depends.”  Here are some questions to consider when trying to decide whether or not to include incomplete degree or coursework towards a degree.

• Are you actively pursuing the degree?

• Is it the only education you are listing?

• Is it relevant to the position in which you are interested?

• Is it a significant amount of coursework?

• Is speaking to not completing your degree going to derail you in interviews?

If you are, in fact, actively – and well into – pursuing a degree, then you can list it. Just make sure to add the term “Candidate” so it is clear that you haven’t completed your degree.

Wondering about resume content? Continually ask yourself: "Is this bolstering readers' perceptions of my qualifications or is it a distraction?" In the case of this question, listing an incomplete degree on your resume – assuming you aren’t actively pursuing it – could draw attention to your lack of a degree. As I’ve said elsewhere in this blog, that may sound unfair – just because you didn’t earn the degree doesn’t mean you didn’t learn anything – but your resume is all about marketing. Listing an incomplete degree on your resume can prompt potential employers to ask, “Why didn’t she finish that degree? I wonder if she has a hard time following through.”