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Whether you're a student or a seasoned professional, courses and certificates can significantly improve your CV by providing tangible evidence of your specific expertise and skills. Although not always mandatory, incorporating them can demonstrate your competence and eagerness to learn, setting you apart from competitors in the eyes of employers.
Tailoring your CV to job requirements is crucial due to applicant tracking systems (ATS) used by recruiters and hiring managers. These systems are designed to filter and rank candidates based on their skills, experience, and qualifications. In this article, we’ll guide you on how to effectively showcase courses on your CV, ensuring it’s optimised for ATS and giving you the competitive edge needed to secure that interview.
What's in this guide?
How to add short courses to a CV
Tips for highlighting skills with courses and certificates
Examples of courses for different professions
Mistakes to avoid when adding courses or certificates to a CV.
New to CV writing?
What are courses and certificates on a CV
The 'Courses and Certificates' section serves as a valuable addition to your CV, complementing key areas like Skills or Work Experience. This section highlights official credentials earned from accredited institutions, associations, or boards, showcasing your commitment to professional growth and expertise.
Courses are a form of training that helps you learn, grow, and develop new skills.
A certificate is the authentication and validation of your skills or credentials.
Completing courses and receiving certificates verifies your proficiency in a particular industry.
Factors to consider when choosing CV courses and certifications:
Short-term or long-term
In-person or online courses
Accredited or unaccredited
One-on-one tutoring or learning centre (~12+ students)
Difficulty level: beginner, intermediate, advanced.
Starting your job search? Don't worry, we've got you covered! Explore our top tips for creating an eye-catching CV for a first job!
How to add courses to a CV
Before listing courses on your CV, consider these simple yet effective tips to make it stand out:
Make sure to align the courses with your career goals while considering potential benefits and drawbacks.
While it is generally preferable to have a separate section dedicated to courses on your CV, they can also be listed within the education section.
Be cautious about including outdated courses that may raise questions from employers.
Keep course descriptions concise, typically one to two lines, unless there are notable achievements like awards or specific skills acquired.
Avoid long titles or subtitles, as they may confuse the reader or even come across as unprofessional.
Pro tip
List courses in reverse-chronological order on your CV, starting with your most recent one and working your way backwards.
'Courses & Certificates' recommended structure
Course name, Issuer, Issued date (date of completion/in progress)
Agile and Scrum basic training, Agile Scrum Group, 2022
'Courses & Certificates' optional information
Course name, Issuer, Issued date, Description or modules, Duration, Types of examination, Results
Fundamentals of Digital Marketing, Google Digital Garage, 2022. Relevant topics: data analytics, business strategy, digital marketing (content display, email, local, social media, video, SEM, SEO), and web optimisation. Completed 26 modules (40 hours). Final exam grade of 38/40.
Don't forget to optimise your LinkedIn profile and promote your completed certificate to your network and potential new employers.
Pro tip
The format of your courses section is not set in stone. The order, length, and content depend on your writing strategy and the free space you have left. Prioritise industry knowledge over academic knowledge for corporate positions.
Qualifications you can include in your courses and certificates CV section
The main types of qualifications include degree courses, diploma courses, certification, and professional training.
Degree and diploma courses are more relevant for higher education positions.
Professional training and job-orientated courses are more common for regular job applications.
Pro tip
When adding relevant courses on a CV, we advise excluding high school certificates/diplomas unless you are starting out your career or only have a secondary education. For universities or research jobs, it is more beneficial to include degrees/diplomas.
Degree courses
This refers to any classes taken at a recognised tertiary institution (university, college). Unlike certificates or professional training, placing them under the education section is better. Degree courses apply to students, recent graduates, or people with little to no experience.
Degree course structure example
Bachelor of Arts in Business Management, University of Bristol, 2018-2021
- Relevant courses: Global Business Environment, Markets and Marketing, Accounting and Finance for Managers, Management Consultancy, Social Entrepreneurship.
Diploma courses
This focuses on practical skills and technical capabilities. An educational institution awards a student with a diploma for passing the course examination. On average, they are short-term and take up to two years to complete.
Diploma course structure example
GCSEs, Westminster School, 2020-2022
- Relevant courses: Mathematics (8), English (9), Business Studies (8), Design and Technology (9).
Certifications
These designated credentials verify the legitimacy and competence to perform a specific job. An individual or organisation earns them by taking an exam or test. You can think of it as a written assurance or proof that a person meets specific requirements and is qualified for a job position. Credentials vary in content, length, cost, and type of assessment.
Certificate structure example
Strategic management, edX, 2019
- Relevant topics: corporate strategy, strategic alliances, collaborative networks, business ethics, and social responsibility.
Professional training
This section showcases relevant training courses in a CV, enabling employees to perform job duties optimally. It is usually an employer-provided program that can be obtained in-house or externally. Unlike degree or diploma courses, professional training and certificates are more practical and can be added as a separate section on a CV. Keep in mind that adding a photo to a CV in the UK job market is prohibited.
Professional training structure example
Certified HR Advisor professional training, The Knowledge Academy, 2023-Present
- Enhanced knowledge of HR essentials by studying employment law, recruitment processes, administration, and HR policies.
Pro tip
As with everything on a CV, you will most likely be asked questions, so avoid including invalid or untrue credentials and statements that could negatively affect your application.
Benefits of adding CV courses and certificates
Courses and certificates on a CV support your main sections by providing insight into your personality, work ethic, and capabilities. Think about how you want to display your additional achievements and choose the right CV format. Remember that it is only worth adding if they enrich your CV and increase your chances of landing a job interview.
This section serves as an additional boost or verification, making you an expert in a specific subject or field.
It shows your interest or passion for learning a new profession or skill set.
It displays your dedication to doing your research while showcasing why you are the right person for the job.
It provides more insight into your personality and motivation.
It is advantageous for candidates with little to no work experience, or if you’re changing careers.
Examples of CV courses and certifications
We realise that adding courses and certificates to a CV can be a tedious process. That's why our experts have created CV examples to guide you. This section features multiple examples while taking into consideration the different naming conventions and ways of displaying this information.
Student CV courses and certificates
Master of Arts in Strategic Communications, King’s College London, 2021-2022
Relevant courses: Strategic Communications (SC): Theory and Concepts, Applied SC, Audience and Population Behaviour and Influence, Introduction to Macroeconomics, Management Accounting, Statistics for Economists, Organisational Behaviour. Dissertation: Brand Awareness and Integral Communications.
Bachelor of Science in Marketing, Bristol University, 2018-2021
Relevant courses: Markets and Marketing, Communications, Issues in Consumer Marketing and Innovation, Project Management, Digital Marketing, Brands and Cultural Strategy, Consumption and Consumer Behaviour.
Complete CV writing guide: Student CV.
Human Resources CV courses and certificates
Behavioural Interviewing Certification, KeenAllignment, 2020
General Industry Safety and Health Training, Occupational Safety and Health Center, 2019
Complete CV writing guide: HR CV.
Support Worker CV courses and certificates
First Aid (Level 2), Pro training Certificate, 2020
Care certificate, NHS, 2020
Complete CV writing guide: Support worker CV.
Waiter/Waitress CV courses and certificates
Food safety credential, Certified Professional-Food Safety, 2022
Restaurant Waiter Training, Udemy, 2021
Complete CV writing guide: Waiter/waitress CV.
Administrative Assistant CV courses and certificates
MBA Essentials, London School Of Economics (CPD-certified), 2021
CPD: Executive PA, 2019
Complete CV writing guide: Administrator CV.
Sales Manager CV courses and certificates
Sales Management Training, Hubspot Academy, 2020
Sales Management Online Course, Great Learning, 2019
Complete CV writing guide: Sales CV.
Nurse Support Worker CV courses and certificates
Trauma-Informed Care CEU course, Nurse.com, 2021
Nursing Professional Development Certification (NPDC-BC), ANCC, 2022
Complete CV writing guide: Nurse CV.
Developer CV courses and certificates
Data Analytics, Google Academy, 2021
Data Structures and Algorithms: Deep Dive Using Java, Udemy, August 1, 2021
Complete CV writing guide: Developer CV.
Project Manager CV courses and certificates
Agile PM 301, Agile Project Management Academy, 2022
Scrum: the Basics, LinkedIn Learning, 2021
Complete CV writing guide: Project manager CV.
Marketing CV courses and certificates
Google Analytics certificate, Google Academy, 2021
Email marketing certificate. Hubspot Academy, 2020
Complete CV writing guide: Marketing CV.
Language CV courses and certificates
English B2 (score 8/9), IELTS, 2022
French B1 (score 93/100), DALF, 2021
German C1 (score 80/100), DSH, 2020
To learn more, read the articles on how to add languages on a CV and how to write French CV or German CV.
Common mistakes to avoid when listing courses on your CV
Courses and certifications can be a powerful addition to your CV, showcasing your dedication to professional development and helping you stand out.
List courses that directly align with the job role to highlight your skills and knowledge in the specific field.
Include courses unrelated to the job, because they can weaken your application.
Try to be up-to-date with courses that are valuable in your field.
Include courses that are no longer recognised or relevant to current industry standards.
Include only courses you have completed or those you are currently enrolled in at the time of your application.
List courses you started but never finished, as this can create an impression of inconsistency or a lack of dedication.
Highlight courses that demonstrate your expertise in technical skills and proficiency with essential tools.
Include basic skills courses like Microsoft Office, as they are generally assumed unless the job specifically requires them.
Skip personal or hobby-based courses.
List courses unrelated to the professional world, unless they directly contribute to the role you're applying for.
Examples of courses to avoid on a UK CV
Avoid listing irrelevant or outdated courses on your CV, as they can distract from your qualifications. Examples specific to the UK market include:
Philosophy 101: Unless you're applying for an academic or teaching role.
First Aid Course: While valuable, it’s only relevant if the job requires it, such as in healthcare or safety roles.
Food Hygiene Certificate: Essential for the food industry, but unnecessary for other fields.
Introduction to Adobe Photoshop CS3: The software is outdated, so focus instead on current, widely used tools.
Year 9 IT Skills Certification: Most employers will expect more advanced IT skills, so this would likely seem too basic.
Pro Tip
Focus on courses that demonstrate your expertise, professional development, or technical skills aligned with the role you’re pursuing.
Examples of online platforms and courses to boost your CV
Select those that would improve your CV with relevant skills and knowledge. Examples of platforms with free online courses to boost your CV:
Refer to our list of tech jobs if you are considering upskilling with one of these IT courses and certificates:
CV courses & certificates essentials
Keep your 'courses and certificates' section brief, persuasive, and concise.
Place courses in descending chronological order, starting from the most recent.
Include core information.
Use certified courses from recognised and established institutions.
Include keywords from the job post to identify and match ATS criteria.
Craft your job-specific CV first, and then include appropriate certificates.
Next steps?
After showcasing your relevant courses and certifications on your CV, the next step is creating a matching cover letter that highlights why you're the ideal candidate for the role. Need a professional edge for your application? Explore our expertly designed CV templates and cover letter templates for a polished finish. Prefer to save time? Let our CV Writing Service handle the work for you. For more career insights, visit our blog, featuring articles on topics like salary negotiation in the UK and the most in-demand jobs across the country.
FAQs
How to include short courses in a CV?
When including short courses in your CV:
Place them within ‘Relevant courses’ in education, or in a separate section called ‘Courses and certificates’ or ‘Professional training’.
List the most recent ones first, in reverse chronological order.
State the course name, name of the institution, and dates.
If the course is too short, consider removing the duration and including a year of completion.
Can you insert courses you're currently attending?
Yes, you can include the courses you’re currently attending. If it is an academic course, place it in the education section and relevant courses in the bullet list. For the date, just say ‘In progress’ or indicate the expected date of completion.
Focus on courses that matter and could have a lasting impact on your application. That would showcase that you’re a swift learner and have relevant expertise.
Should you put incomplete university courses in a CV?
If you’re still a student, include the expected date of graduation instead, so employers know when you are able to start working full-time. Avoid saying ‘incomplete’ at the end of your degree, as it can backfire on your chances of success. When deciding whether to include them, rather think of the following questions:
Do the university courses align with the job description?
Would excluding an unfinished course leave an employment gap on your CV?
Would your academic degree or course be useful in the industry or job you’re applying for?
What are the easy certifications to add to your CV?
Adding certifications to a CV can give you a competitive advantage, help you gain credibility, and increase your chances of landing a job interview. When deciding on a certificate, ensure to research specific job requirements and opt for recognised and reputable providers. See examples of easy certifications to add to a CV below:
For more training options, check out the National Careers Service course finder in the UK.
How to prioritise your courses
To stand out in the UK market, you need to show employers the value of your coursework. Here’s how to make it work:
Highlight what counts: List courses directly related to the job. Applying for a digital marketing role? Mention modules like social media analytics, SEO, or content creation.
Leverage big names: If you’ve taken a course with a notable professor or tied to organisations like the Chartered Institute of Marketing (CIM), include it to add credibility.
Use job-specific keywords: Incorporate terms like "UX design," "data analytics," or "brand strategy" to make your CV ATS-friendly and catch employers’ attention.
Show tangible outcomes: Share results from coursework or projects. For example, "Developed a marketing strategy that increased engagement by 25%."
Adapt to the region: Tailor your focus based on location. In London, lean into international business or finance. For Manchester, highlight creative or digital skills.
Keep it concise and visible: Create a "Relevant Courses" section on your CV. Use bullet points to quickly showcase courses and skills that align with the role.
What are the different naming conventions for courses and certifications on a CV?
In the UK job market, there are various naming conventions for courses and certifications on a CV. Note that these section headings can be combined in different variations. Using these headings can help you organise your CV more clearly, making it easier for recruiters to navigate through your CV. Below are the commonly used naming conventions:
Licence
Credentials
Courses
Certificates
Certification
Professional training
Professional development.
How to put training courses on a CV?
To add training courses to a CV, you need to include the essential information and choose the right placement for them. See the following steps to help you guide yourself through the process:
Select courses relevant to your job description.
Add them within education or create a section called ‘Courses and certificates’.
List the course name(s).
Include the institution or course provider.
Specify the duration or (expected) date of completion.
Additionally, include key learnings or achievements in bullet points.
Should you include academic courses on a CV?
Contrary to a common misconception, diplomas or university degrees are not the only forms of education you can include on your CV. In fact, relevant courses often serve as stronger selling points than general education. These courses offer in-depth and focused training, providing specialisation in a specific field.
How to get a certificate?
To obtain a certification, you typically need to meet specific job criteria, pay a fee, or pass an assessment test. The more challenging the certification is to acquire, the more advantageous it can be to set you apart from other candidates for a job.
Certifications demonstrate your possession of specific skills or a certain level of technical proficiency. They showcase initiative and willingness to stay up to date. Including them will make you recognised for what you do and can help advance your career.
