Is it okay to omit a degree on a job application?

[Writer]

i.e. I go and apply to a part-time job that might be a little worried that a woman with a Master's is applying there. Would there be a problem if I... say... just don't tell them about the Master's?

[LaraMN]

1. That's what my best friend considered doing.

I don't see why you couldn't.

[AllegroRondo]

2. nothing wrong with that

its quite normal to remove any extraneous material from your resume, anything that wouldnt apply to the job in question. If your degree is in an area that wouldnt matter to that job, sure, leave it out.

[Writer]

3. What if a reference mentions this information?

My most recent reference knows I was working on my Master's. Might that pose a problem?

[AllegroRondo]

4. A couple options there.

either call that reference and let them know you are applying for this job, and would appreciate it if they dont mention it,

or, if it does come up and they ask about it, you can just say you were keeping your resume from getting cluttered, and it didnt apply to the job in question. It shouldnt be a problem, as its not like you were trying to hide something bad. For example, I wouldnt put down a degree in music theory if I was applying for an IT job.

[Writer]

6. I think I'm going to take my chances.

Unfortunately my applicable job history surrounds my degree. I can't explain the two year gap any other way, unfortunately.

[EstimatedProphet]

5. I've done it

Sometimes you have to.

[baldguy]

7. Does your degree apply to the job in question?

A job app or resume is an advertisement for YOU. Without being dishonest or evasive- if some fact about your employment history doesn't make you more likely to get the job, then leave it off.

[DeposeTheBoyKing]

8. I'm having the same trouble

I just want a part-time job at Barnes & Noble. I am a licensed attorney and am not sure I want to practice law at all (ESPECIALLY in Texas, where I'm stuck living now). I've applied twice - no response. Both times I put my degree on there - the second time I wrote a note saying I wasn't practicing and didn't intend to practice anytime soon and to please not consider me overqualified - still no answer. I was wondering if I should bother trying again or just walk in there and say, "HEY!"

[Writer]

9. Funny. That's where I'm applying...

I have an MA in Media Studies but much of my recent job history entails "self-employed - writer".

Oh well. It's a job for supplemental income only. But they only want the kiddos, I think. :(

[DeposeTheBoyKing]

10. It seems like ours has a few people older than I am (almost 45)

But you're right - I think most of them are in their 20s/early 30s. x(

[Writer]

11. I'm 32, but this is a college town.

There are a few older folks... but I hope I didn't ask for disaster by telling them of my extra education. :(

[Writer]

12. Actually, have you considered calling?

I called and asked outright if they accepted people with advanced degrees. She said yes, and that she would look out for my application and would call me tomorrow.

[DeposeTheBoyKing]

16. No - I thought about just going in there

Maybe I'll swing by tomorrow when I'm oot and aboot. You have inspired me!

[Rabrrrrrr]

18. I would think that, especially since you're a lawyer, to leave that off.

That's probably scaring them more than the degree.

[Left Is Write]

13. I never mention my degree on job applications.

:P

[trof]

14. I don't see anything wrong with 'dumbing down' your resume'.

Generally you can be fired for falsifying a resume', but you're just omitting info, not inflating.

[xmas74]

15. I don't tell them about my degree at all.

Truthfully, the only jobs in my area right now are for those right out of high school. Last time I included any reference to college they wanted a copy of my transcripts-for a minimum wage job! (Oh, and I was still way overqualified and scared the manager, who thought I'd be after her job in a few months.)

Unless it's actually in my field I only include my high school diploma and I state that I've been in a few continuing education classes (usually under "personal interests" or "hobbies" and yes, I've found them still on apps to this day. When interviewed I tell them that I take whatever strikes my fancy at the moment or that sometimes I audit college courses.)

It's the only way for me to get a job.

[KG]

17. can i borrow yours? seeing as how your not using it?

:hi:

[Zoigal]

19. Hey, i've left

off degrees totally. If the job in question can be done well without
mentioning them, why not? If it comes up in an interview, then i
mention that i've attended college, if it's necessary.

[rug]

20. Why not throw in a few typos while you're at it?