How to Write a Double Major on Your Resume: Stand Out From the Crowd

Landing your dream job often comes down to making a lasting impression. Your resume is your first chance to showcase your qualifications and experiences. If you’ve tackled the challenge of a double major, you’ve already demonstrated dedication and a broad skill set. But how do you effectively highlight this achievement on your resume to truly make it shine? This guide provides a comprehensive approach.

Understanding the Value of a Double Major

Before we dive into the “how,” let’s explore the “why.” A double major signals several positive attributes to potential employers. It shows that you:

  • Possess intellectual curiosity and a willingness to learn in multiple disciplines.
  • Can manage your time effectively and handle a demanding workload.
  • Have a broader perspective and can approach problems from different angles.
  • Are highly adaptable and can switch between different subjects and skill sets.
  • Have a strong work ethic and are committed to achieving your goals.

These qualities are highly sought after in today’s competitive job market. Now, let’s get into the specifics of showcasing your double major on your resume.

Formatting Your Education Section: The Right Way

The education section is where you’ll proudly display your academic achievements. The way you format this section is crucial for clarity and impact. Here’s a template you can adapt:

[University Name], [City, State] | [Graduation Date]

  • Bachelor of [Degree 1] (e.g., Bachelor of Science in Biology)
    • Major 1: [Major Name]
    • Major 2: [Major Name]
    • Relevant coursework or GPA (optional, especially if high)
  • Relevant Honors/Awards (optional)

This format is clear, concise, and highlights both your majors. Notice how we’ve emphasized the degree itself, then listed each major separately. This allows recruiters to quickly grasp your areas of expertise.

Example: Putting it into Practice

Let’s say you have a Bachelor of Arts in English and Political Science from Harvard University. Your education section might look like this:

Harvard University, Cambridge, MA | May 2023

  • Bachelor of Arts in English & Political Science
    • Major 1: English
    • Major 2: Political Science
    • GPA: 3.8 (Optional)
    • Dean’s List (All Semesters)

Placement: Where to Put Your Education Section

The placement of your education section can vary depending on your experience level and the job you’re applying for.

  • For recent graduates or those with limited work experience: Place the education section near the top of your resume, directly below your contact information or a concise summary/objective statement. This highlights your academic credentials as a primary selling point.

  • For experienced professionals: If you have several years of relevant work experience, place the education section further down your resume, below sections like “Experience” and “Skills.” While still important, your work history takes precedence in this scenario.

Tailoring Your Resume to the Job Description

Don’t just list your majors and call it a day. Customize your resume to align with the specific requirements of the job you’re applying for.

  • Analyze the job description: Identify the keywords and skills the employer is seeking.
  • Highlight relevant coursework: If you took courses related to the job’s requirements, mention them.
  • Quantify your achievements: Use numbers and data to demonstrate your accomplishments, even in your academic experiences (e.g., “Led a team of 5 students in a research project resulting in a 15% increase in efficiency”).

Keywords: How to Integrate Them Effectively

Keywords are crucial for both Applicant Tracking Systems (ATS) and human recruiters.

  • Use industry-specific terminology: Research the common terms used in the field you’re targeting.
  • Incorporate keywords naturally: Don’t stuff your resume with keywords; weave them into your descriptions seamlessly.
  • Focus on action verbs: Start your bullet points with strong action verbs (e.g., “Managed,” “Developed,” “Analyzed”) to showcase your skills and accomplishments.

Example: Keyword Integration in Action

Instead of simply writing, “Studied Political Science,” try: “Conducted in-depth analysis of international relations theories, resulting in a publication in the university’s academic journal.” This example incorporates keywords like “analysis,” “international relations,” and “publication,” while also demonstrating a concrete achievement.

Skills Section: Listing Your Diverse Abilities

A double major equips you with a broad range of skills. Your skills section is where you can showcase this diversity.

  • Create a comprehensive list: Include both hard skills (e.g., programming languages, data analysis, foreign languages) and soft skills (e.g., communication, teamwork, problem-solving).
  • Categorize your skills: Group similar skills together (e.g., “Technical Skills,” “Communication Skills,” “Research Skills”) for clarity.
  • Prioritize relevant skills: Tailor the skills listed to the job description, emphasizing the most relevant ones.

Projects and Activities: Demonstrating Practical Application

Don’t underestimate the power of showcasing projects and extracurricular activities.

  • Include relevant projects: If you completed projects in either of your majors, list them and briefly describe your role and the outcome.
  • Highlight leadership roles: If you held leadership positions in clubs or organizations, mention them and quantify your achievements.
  • Showcase extracurricular involvement: Participation in relevant activities demonstrates your interests and commitment outside of academics.

Writing a Powerful Resume Summary/Objective (Optional)

A resume summary or objective statement can be a powerful tool, especially for recent graduates or those changing careers.

  • Resume Summary: This is a brief overview of your skills and experience, highlighting your key qualifications.
  • Resume Objective: This statement outlines your career goals and what you hope to achieve in the role.
  • Tailor to the job: Customize the summary or objective to align with the job description and the employer’s needs.

Example of a Resume Summary

“Highly motivated and versatile graduate with a Bachelor of Arts in English and Political Science, seeking a challenging role in public relations. Proven ability to analyze complex information, communicate effectively, and contribute to team success. Eager to leverage strong writing and analytical skills to achieve organizational goals.”

Proofreading and Editing: The Final Polish

Before you submit your resume, proofread it meticulously.

  • Check for grammar and spelling errors: These errors can damage your credibility.
  • Ensure consistency: Use a consistent format throughout your resume.
  • Get a second opinion: Ask a friend, family member, or career counselor to review your resume for feedback.

Avoiding Common Mistakes

  • Overcomplicating the format: Keep your resume clean, concise, and easy to read.
  • Listing irrelevant information: Only include information that is relevant to the job you’re applying for.
  • Exaggerating or lying: Honesty is always the best policy.
  • Using generic language: Use specific examples and quantifiable achievements to demonstrate your skills.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Here are some frequently asked questions about listing a double major on your resume:

What if my double majors are unrelated? Even if your majors seem unrelated, they likely equipped you with valuable transferable skills. Focus on demonstrating these skills in your resume, such as analytical thinking, problem-solving, and communication.

Should I list my minors as well? If you have space and the minor is relevant to the job, you can list it. However, prioritize your double majors and relevant coursework.

How should I handle a double major if I am also pursuing a graduate degree? Focus on the graduate degree first, but still include your double major from your undergraduate degree. You can briefly mention your undergraduate achievements to highlight the breadth of your skills.

Is it better to have two separate resumes, one for each major? No, it is generally better to create a single, tailored resume that highlights the skills and experience most relevant to the specific job you are applying for.

Can I list my GPA if it’s not perfect? Yes, if your GPA is above 3.5, consider including it. If it’s lower, you can choose to omit it, especially if you have other strong qualifications.

Conclusion: Putting It All Together

Successfully showcasing your double major on your resume is about clarity, customization, and demonstrating your value. By following the guidelines outlined in this article – from properly formatting your education section to highlighting relevant skills and tailoring your resume to the job description – you can effectively communicate your academic achievements and stand out to potential employers. Remember to proofread carefully, and don’t be afraid to seek feedback to ensure your resume is polished and professional. Embrace the power of your double major, and use it to unlock your career potential.