Curriculum Vitas (CVs)

CUSSW Office of Career & Leadership Development

What is a CV?

A CV concentrates on academic pursuits and de-emphasizes materials not directly related to educational background and achievement. Unlike a resume, a CV is a more comprehensive document that includes all relevant content. The content determines the length of the CV, since it includes publications, presentations, grants, etc.

Who should use a CV?

A CV is appropriate for masters and doctoral graduates seeking teaching or research positions. Colleges, universities, and research institutions generally require a CV whereas others employers prefer a resume.

How does a CV differ from a resume?

The documents can be similar in formatting, but the content and purpose differ. A resume is primarily a marketing tool where as a CV is a more comprehensive document detailing the breadth of your experience.

Typical CV Content

Name & contact information (address, telephone, email)
Educational experience
Relevant professional experiences
Teaching experiences or competencies
Publications
Scholarly presentations
Honors (both academic and research related)
Professional affiliations
Relevant community service / volunteer experience
Trainings and continuing education courses
Grants

What type of format do I use?

There is no single format for CVs or resumes. There are numerous formatting examples in the resume portion of the website. The key is to lead with your strengths and the experiences that are most relevant for the position (i.e. leading with research experience for a research position) and be consistent in formatting.