From the course: Writing a Resume

United States curriculum vitae (CV)

From the course: Writing a Resume

United States curriculum vitae (CV)

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- The term CV, or curriculum vitae, is sometimes used interchangeably with a resume, but there are actual technical differences in usage and in layout. In America, much of the country is quite unaware of the existence of a CV because a resume really is the standard for obtaining a job in most cases. If you search the term CV on the internet, you will find pages of articles detailing how to write a resume, so it's no wonder you might be a little confused. A CV is a document that extends far beyond a resume. It is mainly used in academic, scientific, technical, and medical related fields, but is also used to obtain a fellowship or grant. Content is one of the two main differences between a CV and a resume. In addition to the usual sections of a resume such as education, professional experience, summary, or memberships and awards, a CV will include research, fellowships, detailed technical skills, teaching experience, publications, manuscripts, citations, and public presentations. Additionally, the education and awards or honors section will more than likely be greatly expanded and will include a dissertation or thesis title. I realize that was a rather long list of headings, so take a look at the exercise files where you can view a sample US CV. Because of this expanded content, the second main difference between a CV and a resume in America is its length. While a resume will not usually be more than two pages, a CV will be significantly longer. Depending upon how many journals you've been published in or research projects you've been involved with, the page length of your CV can extend into double digits. Even in the academic community, you can apply to more and more jobs online, so you need to be able to adapt. And it's increasingly likely that you will need both a resume and a CV. Having both will mean that you will always be prepared regardless of what type of job opportunity comes your way. But even when a CV is the style of choice, a resume can be used to touch on the main points of the position and be submitted along with the CV. Doing this shows you are a savvy professional who understands the differences between academic and non-academic environments, are flexible enough to adapt your skills to each situation and have thought about the application process sufficiently to know that you need to condense your CV to make it easy for a prospective employer to view your submission. Having an understanding of how a CV works in the US will help you create the right resume for the right role and increase your chances of success.

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