So how do you address your incomplete education on your resume?
Let’s look at both scenarios: those job seekers currently pursuing a degree, and those who’ve decided not to return to school.
How do you put an incomplete degree on a resume?
How you put an incomplete degree on a resume depends on which scenario applies to you: you didn’t finish the degree or you’re currently pursuing a degree.
I personally think it’s important to include your degree or coursework on your resume, especially when it’s related to your current or desired career field. There are two ways I would suggest tackling this:
1. List the college you went to, the program area you studied, and dates you attended school. You’re not including a degree here because one was not awarded.
2. State the university you attended, relevant courses you completed (especially if they’re related to a position you’re pursuing), and dates you attended the school.
You have to be careful when including this information on your resume. You don’t want to mislead an employer into thinking you have a degree that you don’t have. This can come back to bite you if you’re offered the position and they fact-check.
Plus, the goal here isn’t to deceive anyone into thinking that you have a degree you don’t actually have. The goal is to include any education you have received—which, in my opinion, is important to show.
