Forum - Ask the Hiring Manager

QUESTION:

Brian,

I graduated in May with a BS in Criminal Justice and a History minor with a GPA of 3.4. I decided to make my minor a double major. It will be listed on my transcript as an additional major. Also since the credits I have earned are after my degree it is not factored into my existing GPA but starts it all over again on my transcript. But on my grade reports it is factored into my existing GPA (3.5 since May). I guess my question is how should I list this on my resume? Can I list it as a double major and place the combined GPA on my resume? Or do I have to list them separately?

Also when do I list as my graduation date, May or December? I have been going to school since graduation. To alleviate this problem I was just going to complete an additional 6 classes in history which would give me a BA. Everyone keeps telling me that it does not make sense to have a BS and a BA? Is this true and how is this looked upon when applying for a job?

Thanks.

From: Ron Desnoyers


ANSWER FROM BRIAN KRUEGER:

Hi Ron -

Start with the end in mind--what type of job are you seeking? Once you've established that, then you can answer your question about completing the second degree. If the job requires a BA in History, the answer is yes, finish the BA separate from the BS. If it doesn't matter, take your double major BS and start your job search--don't spend extra time and money just to get another roll of parchment if it won't truly help you in your job search.

Assuming you will complete the BS double major, list your graduation as the date when you will complete both majors and list both majors as your double major (i.e. "BS in Criminal Justice and History" or "Bachelor of Science, double major in Criminal Justice and History"). List your GPA as your combined cumulative for all of your schooling.

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