What is a double major on resumes?
A double major is choosing two majors while pursuing one study program. For instance, it would be a double major if you complete a Bachelor in Science with a major in Mathematics and Statistics.
There are other kinds of study programs too. You could pursue a conjoint degree, that is, two bachelor's degrees simulateously. If you cannot take up the programs you choose for a conjoint degree, you could go for a double degree.
A double major, conjoint degree, or double degree shows that you are a learner. But should you include a double major on resumes? If yes, then how do you do it?
Read on to understand how to add a double major on resumes and tips for it.
- Should I mention a double major on my resume?
- Does a double major look good on a resume?
- How do you list a double major on your resume?
- Where to put major on the resume?
- How do you list a double major and minor on a resume?
- Tips for including a double major on a resume
Is It Necessary to Add a Double Major on Resumes?
Companies require candidates with dynamic personalities. What if you are a person who has a double major in the business and STEM fields?
It says that you have a wide horizon of understanding and would add unique perspectives to discussions. It also showcases your time-management skills. It would help you move ahead of the queue and earn higher than your peers.
So, should you include a double major on resumes?
Yes, definitely! It helps you stand out and makes you a better fit for the role.
Also Read: How to draft a resume?
Is a Double Major More Impressive?
A double degree would reward you with two credentials, whereas a double major would not. Choosing one over the other is a personal choice. It would depend on the role and company you aspire to join and the time you have to complete your studies.
Given that, it is important to include either of them on your resume. Again, pursuing a double degree or a double major is a choice only 1 in 4 students make, and including it in your resume would help you stand out.
Also Read: How to draft a CV?
How to List Double Major on Resumes?
Now, let’s discuss how should you add a double major on resumes.
A winning resume is professional and succinctly delivers information. It shall be structured well and include relevant information.
When adding a double major on resumes, keep the following points in mind:
Choose a Major Relevant to the Job as Your Primary Major
For instance, if you have completed a Bachelor of Science degree with a major in Mathematics and Statistics and applying for a role involving making mathematical models, then choose Mathematics as your first major.
Include Information on Minors
Some colleges allow for students to have a minor while pursuing two majors. If you took a minor subject and believe it would be helpful to include it, then mention it in the education section.
Also Read: How to write a cover letter?
Include Your Double Major in the Education Section of the Resume
In the educational background section, use the following format to include a double major:
- Name of your college
- Name of your degree
- Name of the subjects you majored in
- Name of the minor, if any
- GPA, if it is high
- Achievements, awards, and certifications (if any)
- Year of joining and passing
You could change the format as per your experience. For instance, if you held numerous jobs, then you could skip mentioning the minor subject, GPA, achievements, etc.
Include Education Degrees in a Reverse Chronological Order
If you have additional degrees to include in your resume, you should mention them in reverse chronological order. For instance, if you wish to include a double degree or a master's degree on resume, then mention the last completed degree first.
Also Read: What tips to follow while writing a resume?
Format Your Resume
Should the educational background section come at the top of the resume or after the work history section?
It entirely depends on if you are applying for a fresher role or that of an experienced professional. In the case of a fresher with limited or no experience, the education section should always come at the beginning.
On the other hand, if you are experienced, with a gap of several years since you attended college, the education section should follow the work experience section.
Also Read: Basic Resume Templates
Tips for Adding a Double Major on Resumes
Here are some tips to keep in mind while adding a double major on resumes:
Aptly Mention Majors
Write ‘double major’ followed by the subjects. You could use any other way to clearly define the majors so that it is not confused with a double degree.
Add Relevant Keywords
Optimize your resume by adding relevant keywords to parse through the Applicant Tracking Systems. This increases your chances of getting shortlisted. You would find relevant keywords in the job description and could browse for more.
Include Details of Your Coursework
If you have graduated recently, you could include additional details in the education section. Employers look for dedicated candidates with a history of excelling in the choices they have made.
Did you ace in any subjects or receive recognition in some other form? Make sure to include it in the education section.
Proofread Your Resume
Check for any mistakes and typos in your resume. Proofread the resume twice and check if the information is listed appropriately.
Also Read: What skills to put on a resume?
Key Takeaways
25% of the students go for a double major while pursuing their bachelor’s degree. It showcases that the candidate has the spirit to learn. It also increases the chances of earning higher than your peers.
Keep the following in mind while adding a double major on resumes:
- Format the education section depending on your work experience.
- If you are a recent graduate, include all relevant details in your education section- the name of college, degree, majors, GPA, awards or certifications received, and year of passing.
- If you are an experienced professional, you could skip adding a lot of information.
- Mention your major subjects in the same line using signifiers such as ‘double major’.
- Optimize your resume to parse through Applicant Tracking System or ATS easily.
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