Curriculum Vitae (CV)
A Curriculum Vitae (CV) is a detailed academic and professional record. Unlike a resume, a CV provides a comprehensive overview of your education, research, teaching, and scholarly activities.
Purpose of a CV
A CV is typically used when applying for:
- Graduate programs (Master’s or PhD)
- Academic positions (faculty, lecturer, researcher)
- Fellowships, grants, and scholarships
- Research-focused or international positions
The goal of a CV is to document your complete academic history.
CV vs. Resume (Quick Comparison)
Resume | CV |
Short (1–2 pages) | Length varies |
Tailored for each job | Comprehensive and cumulative |
Used for industry roles | Used for academic/research roles |
What to Include in a CV
CVs commonly include many of the following sections (not all are required):
Contact Information
Name
Email and professional webpage (if available)
Education
Degrees, institutions, dates
Dissertation or thesis title (if applicable)
Research Interests
Brief list of key areas
Publications & Works in Progress
Peer-reviewed articles, book chapters, manuscripts
Teaching Experience
Courses taught, roles, institutions
Research Experience
Projects, labs, collaborations
Presentations
Conferences, invited talks, workshops
Grants, Fellowships & Awards
Service
Departmental, professional, or community service
Skills & Languages
Research methods, software, languages
Formatting Guidelines
- Font: Professional and readable
- Font size: 11–12 pt
- Margins: 1 inch
- Spacing: Clear section breaks, consistent formatting
- Order: Most recent items first within each section
CVs prioritize clarity and completeness over visual design.
Tips for an Effective CV
- Keep your CV updated regularly
- Use consistent citation style for publications
- Avoid abbreviations and acronyms that may not be widely recognized