How to Write the Education Section

Degrees, GPA, coursework, and where to place education — whether you're a new grad or fifteen years in.

Education placement signals experience level before anyone reads a bullet. New grads lead with degrees; senior hires tuck them at the bottom unless an MBA or PhD is the qualification.

Christine kept her education at the top twelve years into her career because "that's how my first resume was." Recruiters spent precious seconds looking for her current director role buried on page one. Moving education below experience didn't change her credentials — it changed what people saw first.

What to include

Degree type and major: Bachelor of Science in Computer Science
University name and location
Graduation month/year or expected date
GPA if 3.5+ (or if employer asks; omit if lower unless required)
Honors: cum laude, Dean's List, scholarships

New graduates

Relevant coursework: Data Structures, Machine Learning, Financial Accounting
Academic projects if you lack internships
Study abroad, thesis title, or capstone when relevant

Experienced professionals

Degree and school only — no high school unless no college degree
MBA or PhD can stay higher if switching careers or required for the role
Certifications often matter more than coursework for mid-career tech roles