Definition of Curriculum Vitae - What's the Difference Between a Resume and Curriculum Vitae?

A curriculum vitae, or CV, as it is commonly called, is similar to the common resume but has some significant differences. While these two words--resume and curriculum vitae--are often interchanged, the curriculum vitae is more detailed and asked for in certain fields.

Resumes are generally asked for with an application for most jobs. However, in certain careers, particularly in the area of academia, a curriculum vitae is the document that is usually requested.

A resume is usually asked to be included with just about any job application. This document is expected to be a page or two long, but generally no more than two pages.

The resume should list contact information, along with education and work history. Skills related to the job applied for should also be included. References can be added, or, at the very least, "references upon request" is the generally accepted phrase used on resumes.

That is pretty much what a resume entails. It is just a basic outline of background and experience, a general synopsis that hopefully will land a person the job that is sought.

A dossier encompasses the curriculum vitae and more. If you are anticipating having to turn in a curriculum vitae, you might want to consider going ahead with preparing your dossier.

The requested materials for my dossier included my formal letter of interest for the job position, my curriculum vitae, one letter of recommendation, and a one to two page statement of my teaching philosophy.

A potential employer should inform you of what items to include in your own dossier. These items might include additional items such as your transcripts or evaluations from previous employers or students.

A curriculum vitae is much more detailed than a resume. While a resume consists of only a page or two, a CV will be at least two pages, but probably more--up to even five pages.

Besides contact information, education, and job experiences, the CV goes more in depth. It includes college publications such as a Master's thesis or Ph.D. dissertation. It includes publications and presentations given, along with anything else that will relate to the job applied for.

In a complete CV, honors and awards should be included. Any professional groups and memberships should be listed. Related volunteer work should also be included, as should any other extracurricular activities that add to the applicant's job experience or even to his or her well-rounded personal character.

As in a resume, references should be added, or, at the very least, the common "references provided upon request."

If you need to submit a curriculum vitae for a job, your potential employer will certainly let you know that. A resume is asked for in in all kinds of jobs: service, business, and many more. When in doubt, it's best to submit a regular resume of one to two pages.

A CV is more particular to academic jobs, such as for teaching or research jobs. Recently, when applying to teach at the local University, I was asked to submit my curriculum vitae.

I wasn't sure what a curriculum vitae entailed, so I looked into it further. I already had an updated resume, but I did spend some time adding more details to my resume to conform to the requirements of a CV.

In the end, I did get a positive response--and a position--so I must have done something right!