Curriculum Vitae (CV).

Curriculum Vitae (CV)

In the US, a CV is a detailed document that outlines an individual’s entire academic and professional background, skills, and achievements and can highlight contributions to the field in ways that a standard resume may not capture. They are typically 2 or more pages long and are often used in academic and research fields.

In contrast, a standard resume is typically 1-2 pages and focuses on key work experiences and skills relevant to the job at hand.

Note: In other parts of the world, the terms CV and resume can be used interchangeably.

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When to Use a CV

In public health, the choice between a CV and a resume often depends on the role. As a graduate student in public health, you might use a CV in the following situations:

  • Applying for academic positions such as professorships, research assistantships, or postdoctoral fellowships.
  • Applying for research positions in public health organizations, NGOs, or government institutions.
  • Applying for grants, fellowships, or scholarships that require detailed information on your academic and research background.
  • Conferences or professional presentations where your academic and research contributions are evaluated.
  • Applying for roles in Europe, etc. as a CV is standard for most jobs there. If applying for roles in other countries, research what the standard is in that country.

If you are applying for practitioner roles (e.g., health educator, program coordinator, analyst), a resume that highlights relevant skills and experience may be more appropriate.

What to Include in a CV

While the sections in a CV may vary depending on your field and career stage, typical sections for a public health CV include:

  • Contact Information: Including your professional website or LinkedIn profile.
  • Education: Detailed information on your degrees, institutions, years of study, and titles of theses or dissertations.
  • Research Experience: A detailed account of research projects, your role in the research, and key outcomes, especially in areas relevant to public health.
  • Publications: A list of peer-reviewed articles, books, or other publications you’ve authored or co-authored, cited in proper academic format.
  • Presentations & Conferences: Presentations you’ve given at academic or professional conferences, including titles, dates, and venues.
  • Grants & Fellowships: Any funding you’ve received for your research, including the grant or fellowship title, funding organization, and project description.
  • Teaching Experience: Information on courses you’ve taught or assisted with, including course titles and descriptions.
  • Professional Experience: Any work or internships related to public health, particularly if they involved research or analysis.
  • Awards & Honors: Academic or professional awards, such as scholarships, fellowships, or recognition for research.
  • Skills: Relevant technical and research skills, such as proficiency in data analysis software (e.g., SAS, SPSS, R) or public health tools (e.g., GIS, epidemiological models).

Email sphcareeroffice@bu.edu for sample CVs