Writing a Curriculum Vitae (CV)
OSU Career Services
WHAT IS A CURRICULUM VITAE? A curriculum vitae (pronounced “curriculum vee-tie” but commonly referred
to as CV) is a long, detailed summary of your educational, academic, teaching, and research experiences, as
well as presentations, awards, honors, affiliations and other details.
WHEN IS IT USED? In the United States, a CV is used primarily for international, academic, education,
scientific or research positions. It may also be appropriate when applying to fellowships, grants or graduate
school.
WHAT IS THE DIFFERENCE BETWEEN A CV AND A RESUME? The major difference is length and focus. A
resume is a 1-2 page summary of your skills, experience, and education. A resume is preferred in business and
industry. A CV, on the other hand, is usually between 2-12 pages and provides a detailed synopsis of your
experiences with a large focus on academic and scholarly accomplishments.
WHAT SHOULD I INCLUDE IN MY CURRICULUM VITAE? It should include all of the following information:
Name, contact information, education, skills (e.g. language skills, technical), work or practica experience,
research, teaching experience, publications, grants and fellowships, fieldwork, professional associations and
licenses, thesis/dissertation, awards, study abroad experiences, accreditations, presentations, institutional
services, and other information relevant to the position you are applying for.
You should not include, as a general rule: A personal photo, salary, reasons for leaving certain jobs, or
references. As with resumes, references should be listed separately and given to employers when requested.
WHAT SHOULD A CURRICULUM VITAE LOOK LIKE? It’s important to know that there is not one “right” way to
write a CV. You should aim for your CV to reflect the requirements of the position you are applying for and
that you CV is well-organized. Start by making a list of all your background information, then organize it into
categories (e.g. presentations, teaching, grants). Make sure you include dates on all the publications you
include.
WHAT ADVICE WOULD YOU GIVE TO START? Include concise descriptions, not paragraphs. The OWL of
Purdue recommends gapping, “the use of incomplete sentences in order to present your information as
clearly and concisely as possibly. For example, instead of writing, ‘I taught composition for four years, during
which time I planned classes and activities, graded papers, and constructed exams. I also met with students
regularly for conferences,’ you might write, ‘Composition Instructor (2000-2004). Planned course activities.
Graded all assignments. Held regular conferences with students.’ By using incomplete sentences here, you cut
out unnecessary words and allow your reader to see quickly what you have been doing.”
Organize your experiences under each section in reverse chronological order (the most recent experience
first). For recent graduates, it is recommended you places your education information first after your name
and contact information. List all of your degrees, with the name of the institution and date they were awarded
or list the date you expect to receive the degree for the program you are currently in.
While CVs are longer in length than a resume, this should not invite unnecessary information or descriptions.
Be concise and clear.
WHERE CAN I GET ADDITIONAL HELP? You are always welcome to call Career Services and schedule an
appointment to review your CV, or contact the Center for Writing and Learning. Professors and academic
advisors may also be able to provide feedback and assistance.
Oregon State University Career Services | 541.737.4085 | www.oregonstate.edu/career
______________________________________________________________
8 Kerr Administration Building · (541) 737-4085 · www.oregonstate.edu/career
SAMPLE CURRICULA VITAE OUTLINE (Please note this is a sample format. It is recommended you use a format suitable and appropriate for
your experiences and discipline)
Contact Information
Name
Address
Telephone
Phone
Email (professional e-mail address, e.g. ONID)
Education
Include institution name and location, dates, major, and details of degree (e.g. thesis) in reverse chronological order
Post-Doctoral Degree
Graduate School
Undergraduate
Professional Interests
Include areas of concentration and research or teaching interests
Honors and Awards
Grants, fellowships, scholarships, honor societies
Experience History
Include organization, position title, dates, and position details in reverse chronological order
Work History
Academic Positions
Practica, Internships, Assistantships
Research and Training
Include dates and position details in reverse chronological order
Research involvement
Research interests
Teaching
List in reverse chronological order and include course details and dates
University Service
Include committee and leadership involvement (e.g. governance bodies, institution judicial board)
Professional Qualifications
Certifications and Accreditations
Publications
Include articles, book chapters, books and other publications using appropriate citation style
Presentations
Professional Memberships and Affiliations
e.g. Society of American Foresters, American Public Health Association
Skills
Include language, computer skills, equipment maintenance, lab skills, etc.
______________________________________________________________
8 Kerr Administration Building · (541) 737-4085 · www.oregonstate.edu/career