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How (and Who) to Ask For a Letter of Recommendation

Published on October 30, 2020 by Lauren Thomas . Revised on June 1, 2023.

Letters of recommendation often make or break a graduate school application . It’s important to think carefully about who to ask and how to do it.

Ideally, you should approach former supervisors who know you and your work well, and can advise you. Different programs require different types of recommendation letters, but the process of requesting them is similar.

Follow these five steps to guarantee a great recommendation, including program-specific tips and email examples.

Table of contents

Step 1: choose who to ask, step 2: reach out and request a meeting, step 3: ask for a letter of recommendation, step 4: share your resume and other materials, step 5: remind your recommenders of upcoming deadlines, other interesting articles, frequently asked questions about recommendation letters.

Your first step is to decide who you’ll ask to write a letter for you. Ideally, this should be someone who you worked with outside of just the classroom context—for example, a former professor who supervised your research.

It’s important to ask someone who knows you well, even if they are less well known than other professors at your institution. Graduate admissions committees want to get a good sense of your ability to perform well in their program, and this is difficult to accomplish if your recommender only knows you as a face in the crowd.

Who you should ask also strongly depends on the type of program that you’re applying to. Different programs prefer different qualities in their admitted students, and thus weigh types of recommenders differently. Take a look at the program-specific tips below.

For research programs (MPhil, DPhil, PhD , Research Master’s), graduate admissions committees are looking for evidence of your potential as a future researcher.

Since this is tricky to assess from test scores and transcripts, letters of recommendation are often the most important part of a graduate research program application.

Your letter should thus be from someone who can speak to your skills as a researcher. This could be, for example, a professor who supervised you on an independent research project, or the head of a lab that you worked in as an undergraduate.

If you worked as a full-time research or lab assistant after undergrad, ask your managers, who are usually full-time researchers themselves and therefore experts on what makes a good researcher.

Unlike most graduate programs, business schools are less interested in your undergraduate academic performance. Instead, they try to assess your potential to succeed in the workplace, particularly in managerial or leadership positions. The same applies to public policy and other professional programs.

Ideally, your letters of recommendation should come from current supervisors at your work. If this isn’t possible, you should ask coworkers who are senior to you and know your work well.

Although business schools normally prefer candidates with several years of experience, current undergraduates sometimes apply as well. In this case, you should ask internship supervisors or—as a last resort—professors who know you well.

Medical schools look for evidence that you are academically prepared for the study of medicine and that your character is well-suited to becoming a doctor. Admissions committees in medicine prefer academic references, but they also require a few extra steps.

Firstly, while graduate programs usually require two or three recommendation letters, medical schools often ask for more—you may have to submit up to six letters, some of which should be from former professors in the natural sciences.

In addition, many schools recommend that you submit a letter from the premedical advisory committee at your undergraduate institution, which summarizes your overall suitability for medical school. Be aware that deadlines for materials for these letters are very early—often the spring of the year before you are due to start medical school.

Finally, if you’ve worked on any research projects, you should submit a letter from your supervisor. Medical schools view research competence as a plus.

Law school letters of recommendation should mostly be from former professors or other academic supervisors.

You should only use non-academic recommenders if they can directly speak to your suitability to study law—for example, if you regularly work with lawyers, or if your job involves skills like critical reading or research that are relevant to legal practice.

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The next step is to get in contact with your potential recommender. If you haven’t talked to them in a while, begin your email with a quick reminder to jog their memory. Be friendly, direct, and concise.

If possible, it’s best to plan a meeting to discuss your request. However, if this isn’t practical (for example, if you’ve moved far away from your undergrad institution), you can skip this step and head straight to the third.

Hi Professor Smith!

I hope that everything is going well with you and that you’re still enjoying teaching your seminar on the post World War II international order. I thoroughly enjoyed taking it with you last year as a junior.

I’m currently thinking about what I want to do next year, which will hopefully involve graduate work in political science, and was hoping to meet with you to discuss your thoughts on graduate school. Do you have any time over the next few weeks to meet?

Make your request during your meeting or, if necessary, via email. Let them know what sort of programs you are applying to and when the deadlines are. Make sure to give your recommenders plenty of time!

Instead of just asking for a recommendation letter, specifically ask if they can write you a strong recommendation . This allows your recommender an “out”—for example, if they don’t feel they know you well enough. A bad or even lukewarm recommendation is the kiss of death for any application, so it’s important to ensure your letters will be positive!

If they say they can’t give you a strong recommendation, don’t panic. This gives you the opportunity to ask someone else who can provide you a better recommendation.

Hi Professor Jones!

How are you? I hope everything is going well and you’re still teaching Introduction to Labor Economics to eager students!

I’ve been out of school for a year now, working as a full-time research assistant in New York City. Come this fall, I’m hoping to apply to a few programs for graduate school, mostly doctoral programs in Economics.

Since I took two economics classes with you (Introduction to Labor Economics in Spring 2018 and Industrial Organization in Fall 2019), I was hoping that you might agree to serve as a letter writer for my graduate program. I wanted to highlight my work in labor economics, since that’s what I’m hoping to study in graduate school. Also, since I loved your classes, I thought you might be a good person to ask!

The letters of recommendation would be due to each individual program’s website in December. I understand, of course, if you’re too busy this summer or if you don’t feel that you would be the best fit to write a letter. My goal is simply to paint as complete a picture as possible of my undergrad career at Western. If you’d like, we can also discuss this on the phone.

I look forward to hearing back from you!

You should send your resume or CV to your recommenders, along with any other material that might jog their memory or aid in their recommendation.

For instance, you may want to send along your statement of purpose or writing sample if one is requested in your application. Admission committees are looking for a cohesive story that the letters of recommendation, personal statement , and CV work together to tell.

You should also check whether the school provides any prompts or guidelines for recommenders. Many programs want your recommenders to comment on your potential to serve in the specific role the graduate program prepares you for. See the program-specific tips below.

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Finally, you should send an email to your recommenders a few weeks before the letters are due, reminding them of the deadline and asking if there is anything else you can send them to assist in writing the letter.

If any materials are late, programs will often reject your entire application, so it is imperative that your recommenders get their letters in on time. However, you should also keep in mind that your letter writers are probably quite busy, so don’t send too many reminders!

Dear Professor Jones,

Hope the semester is going well! Thank you again for agreeing to serve as my recommender. I just wanted to send you a quick reminder that recommendations for Program X, Y, and Z are due in two weeks, on December 15. Please let me know if you need anything else from me, and thank you again!

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Choose people who know your work well and can speak to your ability to succeed in the program that you are applying to.

Remember, it is far more important to choose someone who knows you well than someone well-known. You may have taken classes with more prominent professors, but if they haven’t worked closely with you, they probably can’t write you a strong letter.

This depends on the program that you are applying for. Generally, for professional programs like business and policy school, you should ask managers who can speak to your future leadership potential and ability to succeed in your chosen career path.

However, in other graduate programs, you should mostly ask your former professors or research supervisors to write your recommendation letters , unless you have worked in a job that corresponds closely with your chosen field (e.g., as a full-time research assistant).

It’s best to ask in person if possible, so first reach out and request a meeting to discuss your graduate school plans.

Let the potential recommender know which programs you’re applying to, and ask if they feel they can provide a strong letter of recommendation . A lukewarm recommendation can be the kiss of death for an application, so make sure your letter writers are enthusiastic about recommending you and your work!

Always remember to remain polite. Your recommenders are doing you a favor by taking the time to write a letter in support of your graduate school goals.

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Letters of Recommendation for Graduate School: The Definitive Guide

Who, when, and how to ask for a letter of recommendation for graduate school, including word-for-word scripts and a sample letter.

Introduction

You’ve decided to apply to graduate school as the next step in your career journey. Whatever type of program you’re planning to attend, you’ll be asked to submit letters of recommendation as an admission requirement. You’ve been here before. You asked your high school teachers, advisors, or coaches for letters of rec when applying to undergrad. But how are letters of recommendation for graduate school different? What do you need to know in order to put your best foot forward and increase your chances of grad school admission?

Consider the purpose of your letters of recommendation for graduate school. In most situations, they’re written by your undergrad professors, so they’re a form of peer-to-peer advice. From one professor to another, the graduate program faculty are seeking the answer to a set of important questions. Do you have what it takes to excel in their program? And when there are so many qualified candidates to choose from, why should you be considered over other applicants? What personal qualities, experiences, and accomplishments make you the perfect fit for this program? 

Be careful not to underestimate the importance of a strong letter of recommendation for graduate school. If you have any weak areas in your application, say a less-competitive GPA or a GRE score slightly below average, an enthusiastic, detail-filled letter of recommendation may be the factor that redeems you and earns you an offer of admission. And if you’re competing against high-achieving applicants for a seat in a top graduate program, an impressive letter of recommendation has the power to sway the admissions committee in your favor.

So how do you secure impressive letters of recommendation for graduate school? We’ve compiled answers to the most pressing questions about grad school letters of recommendation so you can do everything in your power to impress admissions committees and make your grad school dreams come true.

Who should write your letters of recommendation for graduate school?

Most graduate school applications require you to submit two to three letters of recommendation, but different types of programs have different requirements about who your recommenders should be. You might be asked to submit a letter of recommendation for graduate school from a professor who teaches a specific subject. Or maybe you’ll have to get a letter from your work, research, or internship supervisor. For example, the Stanford Graduate School of Business MBA program requests letters of recommendation from both a current and a former work supervisor for applicants to be considered for admission. 

You want to be sure to pay close attention to the specific requirements of the grad schools on your application list. And if you’re given more freedom to decide your recommenders will be, you should still prioritize letters of recommendation from individuals who can speak to your academic ability or your experience related to the specific field of your intended graduate degree. An ideal set of recommendation letters would include one from a professor in a related subject, one from a research supervisor, and one from an internship or work supervisor.

Who would write the best letter of recommendation for graduate school

Choosing which professors, supervisors, or advisors to ask for graduate school recommendation letters can be challenging. Should you choose someone who doesn’t know you well but has an inside connection to the graduate school you’re applying to? If a prestigious professor writes you a letter of recommendation for graduate school would you get an automatic admissions advantage? 

These questions and more can keep graduate school hopefuls up at night, wondering how to maximize their admissions odds. To put your mind at ease, here are the best guidelines to use when selecting who to ask for letters of recommendation for graduate school. 

Someone who knows you well and positively. You should choose an individual who you’ve spent time with outside the classroom, who knows your career goals, and who holds a favorable opinion of you.   

Someone who has known you for a significant amount of time. A letter of recommendation for graduate school will carry more weight if the recommender has known you for two years instead of two months. Ideally, you want to find someone who has known you for a year or more in various formats (for example, as your professor, faculty mentor, and honor society advisor).

Someone who can speak to your specific strengths as they relate to the program. Choosing an economics professor to write your MBA letter of recommendation is a wise choice because they can speak to the specific qualities that will help you succeed in pursuing an MBA as well as a career in business. You might also choose a research, internship, or work supervisor to write your recommendation letter if they’re in the type of career you’re pursuing. 

Someone who has meaningful stories to share about you. Consider who witnessed some of your greatest accomplishments or saw you demonstrate high levels of initiative, commitment, or teamwork. A letter of recommendation that includes specific stories instead of general platitudes (“show, don’t tell”) is more impactful.

Someone who communicates effectively. If all other aspects are equal and you’re trying to decide between two potential recommenders, you should consider who will be more likely to produce a strongly-worded, persuasive letter on your behalf. Some professors are more generous, organized, and enthusiastic than others—those are the ones who write memorable letters of recommendation for graduate school.

When to ask for a letter of recommendation for graduate school?

You should ask for a letter of recommendation for graduate school between six weeks and two months before the application deadline. This gives your recommender plenty of time to draft, write, and revise your letter of recommendation—increasing the final quality and level of impact.

If you’re seeking a letter of recommendation for graduate school from a professor, be especially mindful of what’s going on during the semester when you make your request. Is it the week of mid-terms? Is it the end of the semester where they might be overwhelmed with other duties? Consider what state of mind they might be in. The beginning of the semester is usually a calmer time for academics and an appropriate point to make your ask.

How to ask for a letter of recommendation for graduate school 

The manner in which you ask for a letter of recommendation for graduate school can directly impact the quality of the letter your recommender provides. Showing respect, consideration, and professionalism will start your letter of recommendation off on the right note. On the other hand, being too casual or seeming unappreciative will make your recommender less unenthusiastic about their endorsement, if they agree to give it at all!

That being said, the best way to ask for a letter of recommendation for graduate school is in person. Occasionally, this just won’t be possible, in which case sending an email is an appropriate back-up. But try your best to arrange a face-to-face meeting when seeking a letter of recommendation. 

How to ask for a letter of recommendation for graduate school in person

First, you will want to arrange a meeting with your potential recommender. It’s not suggested to drop by a professor’s office without an appointment or trying to catch them before or after class. By scheduling an appointment, you show respect for their time and demonstrate you’re taking your grad school applications seriously.

Below are exact email scripts you can use to request a letter in person:

Word-for-word email script when planning to ask someone you know well in person

Dear [Professor’s Name], 

I hope this message finds you well. I’m planning to apply to [type of graduate program] this fall and was wondering if I could meet with you to seek your guidance on the process. I have always valued your advice and hope to benefit from your perspective as I take this next big step in my educational journey. If so, please let me know what days and times you would be available to meet. Thank you for your consideration!

[Your Name/Last Name]

Word-for-word email script when planning to ask someone in person whom you haven’t seen or spoken with in a while

Dear [Professor’s Name],

I hope this email finds you well. My name is [Name/Last Name], and I was a student in your [Course Number/Title] course during [Semester/year]. I greatly appreciated your class because [authentic reason].

I’m planning on applying to [type of graduate program] this fall and was hoping you’d be willing to share your perspective on the process. If so, please let me know what days and times you are available to meet with me. Thank you for your consideration!

Additional advice on asking for a letter of recommendation for graduate school in person

When you meet face-to-face with a professor, advisor, or supervisor to ask for a letter of recommendation for graduate school, be sure to clarify why you chose them in particular. Of all the potential individuals you could have asked, why are their opinions and perspectives most valuable to your application to grad school? Share why your experience and interactions with them have been valuable, and if applicable, how they have encouraged you to pursue a graduate education.

You can also identify the specific qualities and experiences you hope they will speak to in their letters. For example, you might ask your research supervisor to discuss your abilities with data analysis and interpretation if you were applying to a data-related degree program, such as the Master of Science in Data Science at Columbia University . 

If you’re meeting with someone you haven’t spoken to or seen in a while, you might want to frame your request in such a way to assess whether they feel capable of writing a strong letter of recommendation for you. For example, “Would you feel comfortable writing a letter of recommendation for graduate school that highlights my specific strengths?” A lukewarm, vague letter won’t increase your admissions chances, so if that’s the best one of your recommender options can provide, it would be better to thank them graciously for their time and search for a different recommender. 

How to ask for a letter of recommendation for graduate school by email

In the instance where meeting face-to-face is simply impossible, sending a well-crafted email is an appropriate way to ask for a letter of recommendation for graduate school. You only want to use this method with someone you know well. If you have someone in mind who you haven’t seen or spoken to recently, it’s imperative to meet them in person when making your request. 

Word-for-word email script when planning to ask someone you know well via email

I hope this email finds you well. I’m preparing to apply to [type of graduate program] this fall and was wondering if you’d feel comfortable writing a strong letter of recommendation for me. [Add a sincere sentence or two explaining why a letter from them would be valuable and what experiences or qualities they might speak to]. 

If you’re willing to write a letter, I will send the following supporting materials: 1) my transcript, 2) my resume, 3) a draft of my personal statement, and 4) the graduate program description. Thank you for your consideration!

What pieces of information to provide to your recommenders

In order to help your recommenders produce high-quality letters of recommendation for graduate school, you should provide them a small informational packet after they agree to your request. This packet should include the following items:

A current transcript

An updated resume or CV

A copy of your personal statement for graduate school

A list of your relevant extracurriculars, such as research, internships, or involvement in academic societies

An outline of your career goals

A list of the graduate schools you are applying to 

Reminders of anything specific you hope they’ll include in their letter, such as your accomplishments in their class or under their supervision

Detailed instructions for submitting the letter of recommendation for graduate school

The deadline to submit their letter

What should a letter of recommendation for graduate school include?

If you ask professionals outside the world of academia for letters of recommendation—your work or internships supervisors, for instance—you might get the question, “What should a letter of recommendation for graduate school include?” In this case, you should provide your recommenders with the following list which outlines what strong recommendation letters contain.

A description of how they know you, how long they’ve known you, and how they are familiar with your work.

An explanation for how they think you’ll be successful in the program that avoids generalities and uses specific anecdotes as proof.

A highlight of a few of your top qualities they’ve witnessed—again, using examples as evidence.

A high recommendation, particularly in comparison with your peers. For example, “She is one of the most ambitious/curious/insightful students I have encountered in my 10+ years of internship supervision. I highly recommend her to your graduate program.”

These objectives will guide any recommender to produce an outstanding, impactful letter of recommendation for graduate school and increase your grad school admissions odds.

When to send reminders about your letters of recommendation for graduate school

If by two weeks before the application deadline you haven’t received confirmation from your recommenders that they submitted your letters of recommendation, you will want to respectfully check-in with a reminder. Before you do, contact the grad school admissions office to verify the letter is still outstanding. If it is, you can send a reminder to your recommender via email. 

Word-for-word email script when reminding someone of the letter of recommendation deadline

I hope this email finds you well. I plan on submitting my graduate school applications [on date or in # of days/weeks], so I wanted to send you a reminder regarding your recommendation letter. Please let me know if there’s any additional information I can provide you.

Thanks again for your support!

Once you do receive notification that the letter of recommendation for graduate school has been received, be sure to send a thank you letter or email to your recommender. And after you’ve received your admissions decision and chosen which program to attend, remember to send them a final update and thank them again for their role in your success.

Sample letter of recommendation for graduate school

Dear Program Committee: 

I hope you will strongly consider accepting Constance Wong to your PhD in Counseling Psychology program. I recommend her most highly to you. I am an associate professor at Chapman University. I have known Constance for approximately 3 years. I served as her instructor for Group Counseling, Theories of Psychology, and Counseling Techniques Laboratory.

Constance is simply phenomenal. Please allow me to explain. Constance is a hard-working, reliable, and talented counselor-in-training. She was one of the most engaged and committed students I have ever taught. During my class sessions, she frequently made incisive contributions to discussions and emanated a cheerful, humorous spirit. Constance was also highly receptive to feedback and instruction. I gained the sense that she relished opportunities to learn from supervisory feedback. In short, I thoroughly enjoyed having her in classes. 

Her counseling skills are very well developed. I had the opportunity to observe Constance’s group and individual counseling skill development in my courses. She evidenced a highly empathic, genuine, and sensitive presence. Simultaneously, she balanced these gifts with mastery of a skill-set referred to as “executive functioning” (for example, providing structure for counseling sessions, implementing plans, and managing time). It was exciting for me to witness this unique combination. 

Finally, Constance’s professionalism and dedication are unparalleled. Her assignments were always submitted on time and with exceptional quality. I could count on her to participate as a team player in group projects. In fact, she is one of those rare students who sought out extra opportunities for professional development: she completed advanced training in grief counseling for children and volunteered as a group facilitator for Good Grief, Inc. Similarly, she attended professional development workshops on play therapy and assisting children through tragic events. Such experiences illustrate her strong commitment to the field of psychology. 

I sincerely hope you will take the opportunity to meet and know this exceptional individual. I offer this recommendation without reservation and would be happy to discuss Constance’s qualifications further should you have any questions. 

Sincerely, 

Terry N. Schumer, PhD

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Graduate School Letter of Recommendation Examples 2022-2023

Grad school recommendation letters are an essential part of every graduate school application package–even in this (almost) post-COVID era of remote work and Zoom classes. Nearly all applications to graduate school still require at least two recommendation letters from individuals who can discuss your abilities, competencies, and personal character in a coherent way and recommend you for admission to graduate school.

Many referees have difficulty writing these recommendations themselves (for language issues or simply because they are busy) and some rely on the applicant to pen the draft of the letter and receive confirmation before submitting it to the graduate school. But regardless of who is writing the letter, there are a few key elements the recommender needs to include to craft a stellar recommendation for their graduate candidate.

Who should write a recommendation letter for graduate school?

Choosing which professors, supervisors, or advisors to request a graduate school recommendation letter from can be somewhat overwhelming. Should you choose someone who does not know you personally but who has connections to your target graduate school? If a famous professor writes you a grad school recommendation letter, will this automatically give you an advantage with the admissions committee? 

In general, graduate recommendation letters should come from people who know you well, who respect you enough to say glowing things about you as a student and researcher, and who hold positions in school or work that are above your own. At least one letter of recommendation should be submitted from a past or current professor or academic advisor. 

Another could be from someone in a slightly different role, including an employer, a research adviser, a senior colleague, or a professor from a different department or kind of class (e.g., a discussion class professor instead of a lecturer). No matter who it is, the recommender should know the applicant and recognize their accomplishments. It also helps if the recommender understands some details about the program to which their candidate is applying.

Here are some guidelines to follow when choosing who to ask for letters of recommendation for graduate school. Select someone who:

• Knows you well and can answer positively. Choose an individual who you have spent time with outside the classroom if possible. They should also be familiar with your career goals and hold a favorable view of you. 
• Has known you for quite a while. A recommendation letter for graduate school carries more influence if the person has known you for months or years instead of months. If you can, find someone who knows you from various contexts, such as a professor who is also your advisor. 
• Can speak to your strengths in relation to your graduate program. Choosing a finance professor to write your recommendation letter for an MBA program would be a good idea because they can write about the qualities that will aid you in pursuing an MBA (qualities you can also include in your MBA essay ) and a broader career in business. 
• Has substantive stories to share about you. Who was fortunate enough to see you succeed in an academic, extracurricular, or professional setting? Having someone write your LOR who has good stories to share about you is certainly going to benefit you more than someone whose class you took with two hundred other students. 

How to Request a Letter of Recommendation for Graduate School

Knowing how to request a letter of recommendation for graduate school can directly impact the quality of the letter your referee writes for you. Show respect and consideration for the time that your recommender is taking to write a glowing review that will get you into graduate school and positively impact the rest of your life. 

With this in mind, it may seem obvious that the very best way to ask for a letter of recommendation for graduate school is to do so in person. While this isn’t possible for all students (due to availability or schedule), it is the best route if you want to ensure that your LOR is not only written on time, but includes all the positive information about you that admissions committees want to see in a graduate candidate. When you cannot ask in person, sending an email is an appropriate second-best option. But remember to always be cordial and polite when making this request. 

What information should be included in a graduate recommendation letter?

Your referral letter should cover a range of skills, from academic abilities to research experiences, to applied experiences in and out of class. As the recommender, your letter should clearly answer some specific questions:

Your letter of recommendation should cover a range of skills, from academic abilities to research experiences, to applied experiences in and out of class. As the recommender, your letter should clearly answer some specific questions:

• What is your relationship with the student?
• Why should the graduate faculty listen to your opinion? (include your status, title)
• What makes this student special? (discuss their characteristics, qualities, traits)
• What specifically did this student do to impress you? (discuss their accomplishments, habits in class)
• What makes this student qualified for graduate school and for this program? (include specific courses or interests of the student in addition to abilities and traits)
• What do you know about the program the student is applying to?

What information does the LOR recommender need from me?

The recommender should be given sufficient time to write (and/or confirm) the letter. If it has been a while since you were last in contact, sending a background information file will make things easier. Include the following information so that the recommender can use a few details to bolster their letter:

• Classes the student has taken with the recommender
• Experiences you have shared
• Transcripts
• Research experience and internships
• Awards and achievements
• Academic/career goals
• Relevant professional experience

In addition to background information, make sure that the recommender has the necessary information to plan the writing in a timely manner and target the letter as much as possible:

• Graduate program application due date
• Copy of recommendation forms (if applicable)
• Instructions for submitting LORs (hard copy, soft copy, or direct to school)
• Details about the program and school the student is applying to

What style of writing should be used in a recommendation letter?

Although the letter of recommendation is more informal than academic writing, you should make sure that your language has no grammatical or mechanics errors and that it is of an academic level that reflects the author’s educational level and qualifications. Apply the following standards to the writing and the essay-drafting process:

• Make your language more personal in tone than research writing.
• Use the active voice and first-person point of view more often.
• Write chronologically, starting from important traits and then moving on to actions and achievements.
• Use lots of details—list course names, scores, and specific achievements of the student.
• Edit your letter before submitting it to the graduate admissions faculty.

How to Write a Grad School Letter of Recommendation Letter: LOR Outline

A well-structured recommendation letter (like any organized essay) will guide the reader logically towards an understanding of why this student is worthy not only of praise but of admission to graduate school. Grad school requires quite a few high-level scholastic attributes that not all students possess, and therefore it is important to focus on both the achievements of the candidate and on their personal character and potential to thrive in a difficult academic environment.

Use this outline as a letter of recommendation template in which to input your candidate’s achievements, skills, and traits. Note that the flow of information moves the reader into greater detail, using form phrases and transitions that increase the readability of the letter.

1. Greeting to the recipient

Dear {Name}, or To Whom It May Concern, To the graduate faculty of the {University / Department}

2. Opening paragraph: position; relationship to the applicant; general assessment of the applicant

It is my absolute pleasure to recommend {Name} for admissions to {Program} at {University}… I am a professor of {area of study} in the department of {department} at {University}.

3. Second paragraph: positive skill or trait; evidence of trait or skill; anecdotes demonstrating this skill

Jane has excellent communication skills. Her written work is both clear and concise, as well as interesting to read…

4. Third (up to fifth) paragraph: Other skills or traits; evidence of character and skills; detailed anecdotes

At a personal level, Jane is a well-disciplined, industrious student with a pleasant personality. She went well beyond the course expectations…

5. Final Paragraph: clear recommendation of the candidate to the specific school or program.

Jane is unquestionably an exceptional candidate for graduate study in {Program Applying for}. Jane’s work in “Developments in Anthropology” suggests that she would greatly benefit from the opportunities for intellectual development provided by a sustained period of graduate study…

6. Closing line: polite offer to be contacted if needed

If I can be of any further assistance, or provide you with any further information, please do not hesitate to contact me.

Letter of Recommendation Template and Useful Phrases

Admission essays often contain template phrases or “form phrases” that allow the writer to plug in their specific information while not spending too much time deciding how to compose every single aspect of the writing. This can be especially useful for ESL authors because conventional expressions used in academic and essay writing can be difficult to learn and memorize. Use the following form phrases to help craft a more professional letter of recommendation.

Introducing yourself

• My name is  {Author}  and I have been a Professor of Math at  {University}  since  {date} .
• I write to you today to proudly express my support for  {Student}  in applying to your prestigious university.

Discussing your relationship with the applicant

• I first came to know  {Student}  while teaching him/her in my  {Course Name}  course…
• I was  {Student} ’s thesis advisor during his/her senior year.
• I have known  {Student}  for several years now and can attest to his/her strengths and quality of character.

Discussing the student’s general positive traits

• {Student}  has excellent communication skills and displays them regularly in class discussions.
• He/She is a highly intelligent and competent student who excels in many areas.
• Not only is  {Student}  hard-working and thoughtful, but he/she also demonstrates kindness and generosity towards his/her peers.

Demonstrating evidence of student’s character and skills

• She/he has shown herself/himself to be a true leader who is able to successfully develop plans and implement them in his/her work.
• {Student}  demonstrated his/her independence daily, completing difficult lab exercises by researching outside of class.
• During his/her internship,  {Student}  consistently managed his/her work responsibilities diligently and learned quickly. For example…

Discussing the school/program the student is applying to

• As  {University}  is renowned for its  {Program} , I believe this is an ideal place for  {Student}  to solidify his/her abilities and cement his/her knowledge of  {area of study} .
• The learning environment that  {University}  is famous for creating excellent opportunities in which  {Student}  to apply his/her skills.

Final endorsement and offer to be contacted

• For the above reasons, I am confident that  {Student}  will make an excellent addition to your graduate program, and I wholeheartedly support him/her for admission to your program.
• Thank you for your time and attention in reading my endorsement.

Further Tips for Writing Admissions Essays

• Highlight your self-motivation, competence, and potential in this essay
• Emphasize everything from a positive perspective and write in the active voice.
• Demonstrate through examples; don’t just write that you are a “persistent person”—show it!
• Approach every topic with continuity and focus.

The Final Step: Editing Your Recommendation Letter

As any good writer knows, it takes more than one draft to create a strong and compelling work of writing. After you have written your recommendation letter draft, there is still a lot of room for revision. One way to ensure that grammar mistakes and style errors do not get in the way of a strong letter is to let the admissions experts at Wordvice’s Admissions Editing Services edit and proofread your (of your candidate’s) letter of recommendation or other application essays, raising the chances that your candidate will be admitted to the program of their choice.

With a full suite of professional proofreading services , we edit thousands of admission documents each year for all kinds of authors of academic and admissions documents just like you. Furthermore, our application essay editing services , recommendation letter editing services , personal statement editing services , CV editing services , cover letter editing services , and SOP editing services are tailored to the needs of your specific admissions essay.

For more articles on writing and editing your essays and academic work, visit Wordvice’s Academic Resource page . 

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June 1, 2023

Deciding Who Should Write Your Letters of Recommendation – PhD

Letters of recommendation (LORs) are a key part of your application. Strong ones provide meaningful support, while a lukewarm one can really hurt your chances for admission. In this post, we’ll answer two questions: Who should write in support of your PhD application? How can you make sure your LORs are as good as they can be?

How to choose the best LOR writers

It is important to select LOR writers who know you well and, ideally, for a reasonably long period of time. Select individuals who can comment specifically and knowledgeably about your abilities. It is helpful if you have stayed in touch with your recommenders since you studied or worked with them.

Select writers who can address your research experience and potential. The more closely the writer’s background aligns with your field of study, the better. You should select faculty members to write the majority of your LORs for PhD programs.

If you have relevant work experience, you can also ask a current or previous employer. The employer should focus on your research potential. You can ask internship supervisors if the type of work you did as an intern is related to your intended field of study.

When you ask your recommenders if they would be willing to write  in support of your application, ask whether they feel they can write a strong, positive letter. This provides a gentle way for a hesitant recommender to decline – they can admit that they don’t think they know you well enough to do so (or you might sense their hesitation), and you can move on to someone else who can and will.

How to help your recommenders write strong LORs

It is important to provide information to your recommenders that will help them write the strongest letter possible. This can include your resume, copies of work you produced for their class (for faculty members), and a list of job accomplishments (for supervisors). Also provide a list of the schools you are applying to and the specific degree programs. Include a link with instructions as to what to include in the letter. Provide all these materials at one time in an organized manner.

Offer to meet with your recommender to discuss your plans and goals. You can also send them a link to Accepted’s  10 Tips for Writers of Letters of Recommendation .

Agree on a timeline of at least several weeks for them to complete their letter. Be aware of the academic calendar if you are asking a faculty member; the final weeks of the semester are often very busy. Remember that professors go on sabbatical and might not be available at all times.

A few days before the agreed-upon deadline, send a reminder to your letter writer.

Say thank you!

Always remember to follow up with a thank you note. (Ideally, you can write another thank you note after you get in, sharing the good news!)

You need to choose your PhD letter of recommendation writers wisely and then present them with the right materials to assist them in constructing strong letters that will represent your greatest strengths. We can help you with this and with any other element of your PhD application. Check out our catalog of  Graduate School Admissions Services , and let us know how we can help you achieve PhD admissions success!

By Alice Diamond , former associate dean for career and community service at Lesley University. Alice has a BA from Colgate University, an MA from Bryn Mawr College, and an MS from Cornell University. She has more than 35 years of experience in career and admissions advising for undergraduate and graduate candidates. Alice’s clients have been accepted to top programs in a wide range of fields. Want an admissions expert to help you get accepted? Click here to get in touch!

Related Resources:

• Choosing the Best PhD Programs , a free guide • An Admitted Johns Hopkins MD/PhD Candidate Reflects on His Journey • Lining Up Letters of Recommendation and Searching for Fellowships

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Your Guide to a Strong Ph.D. Application

Share this post.

Rarely is there discussion of how to prepare for doctoral programs in professional master’s programs. So when I came across a workshop on preparing Ph.D. applications by Assistant Dean for Graduate Student Development J. Alan Kendrick , I jumped right into it even though it was scheduled to be around midnight in my time zone. (Yes, graduate school remotely from Pakistan is tough and disorienting, but that is a topic for a different blog post.) Here was someone who, in addition earning a Ph.D. himself, has years of experience in selecting Ph.D. applicants, so there could not have been a better opportunity to get introduced to the process! In this piece I’ll touch upon some major points highlighted by Dr. Kendrick to explain what it means to aim for a Ph.D. program and build a solid Ph.D. application.

THe Master's Versus the Ph.D.

Starting off, it is crucial to know the difference between a master’s program and a Ph.D. program. Whereas a master’s degree will generally be more specific than an undergraduate degree and usually span one to three years, a Ph.D. program usually entails a more focused set of question(s) within a discipline and usually spans five or more years. In a Ph.D., the cost of attending is often covered through a combination of fellowships and stipends. Schools are more likely to look for applicants who secured funding from external sources, but this it is not always necessary.  So, a good yardstick to measure your readiness and commitment for a Ph.D. program is your willingness and ability to work consistently for years on the academic inquiry you wish to pursue to push the frontiers of existing human knowledge. Scholars in STEM fields such as microbiology or solid-state physics usually spend most of their time in labs, so it is essential to get to know the work environment, culture, and expectations in your prospective labs.

A Strong Application

After getting clarity on what a Ph.D. program demands, let’s get into some major elements of a strong Ph.D. application. Broadly speaking, a Ph.D. application consists of previous academic grades, competitive examination scores, work experiences, letters of recommendation, and a personal statement. For a Ph.D. program, all previous academic grades are weighted and assessed including undergraduate transcripts, while standard examination scores (i.e., the GRE) are now becoming optional at many institutions. And while top-tier grades are a great foundation, they are not decisive as each application is looked at holistically with all its elements to give a better picture. Letters of recommendation from previous academic supervisors are weighted heavily along with your personal statement.

One thing Dr. Kendrick emphasized was to not just get recommendations as mere “character profiles” but rather what he called “ strong recommendations.” Before you ask for faculty recommendations, share your résumé with them, sit down with them over a Zoom call (at least during the pandemic) and share your aspirations and objectives, and then ask for strong recommendations. Additionally, you should waive your right to review recommendation letters in your applications as doing this will indicate that the referee has been candid in your assessment for the admissions committee.

Mastering the Personal Statement

Finally, I come to the part where the ball is really in your court: the personal statement! I say this because while other elements of your application—grades and transcripts, previous work experiences, etc. are no longer alterable—the personal essay is your space to unapologetically express your true self and how you have evolved to be the person you are today. You can explain how your intellectual life has brought you to your specific academic area and where you see yourself going forward. Your statement should make it clear why you are interested in the field, the institution and program you are applying for as well as your research and career goals. Your essay should be tailored to the institution and/or program. Red flag here: if you end up with an essay where you can just replace institution names, then you haven’t met your goal. Additionally, your statement should include details about your background that can help the faculty better understand your motivation for pursuing their program. This can be anything—people, events, challenges, and achievements that have aided your growth and add to your fitness for the program. Additionally, you should address any noticeable discrepancies or gaps in your profile or transcripts that are worth mentioning.

While the personal statement is crucial to your application and speaks on your behalf in a room full of faculty who are judging your application, it is important to understand that there is no standard format or template that you should follow. This space is supposed to be personal, and it is supposed to be yours. It is also equally important to understand that the faculty judging applications are humans like us and often have diverging opinions about different profiles. Also remember that funding and positions for Ph.D.s are often limited and hence a rejected profile does not necessarily make it an incompetent or ineligible one.

In a nutshell, for a strong Ph.D. application, you need academic questions that keep you up at night and the discipline to follow the guidelines Dr. Kendrick shared, so that you can demonstrate your willingness and ability to work under supervision to answer those academic questions. This session with Dr. Kendrick brought me much-needed clarity to tackle my Ph.D. applications, and I hope this post does the same for you!

Editors’ note: You can find additional resources on preparing a strong application on The Graduate School’s website.

Soman ul Haq

Master's candidate, Environmental Management, Nicholas School of the Environment

Soman is a Fulbright Scholar from Pakistan and a first year Master of Environmental Management candidate at the Nicholas School of the Environment concentrating in Energy and Environment. He is currently focused on energy access in developing countries, sustainable development, energy transition, and behavioral changes with energy transition and access. Prior to joining Duke, Soman worked with the German International Development Cooperation (GIZ) as a technical advisor for energy access in off-grid areas and energy transition in industrial sector in Pakistan. As a mechanical engineer, he has experience consulting commercial and industrial sectors in developing energy efficient practices to achieve their sustainability goals. He tweets at @somaanulhaq

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• 20 July 2020

Writing the perfect recommendation letter

Andy Tay is a freelance writer based in Singapore.

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Undergraduates need them for graduate-school applications; PhD students and postdocs use them to apply for fellowships and jobs; senior scientists often have to have them to apply for awards and promotions. But writing an effective and personal recommendation letter can be time-consuming, especially for academics who must juggle grant applications, manuscripts, teaching and student supervision. And some might struggle to say the right things to support a former employee or student in their career move, while sounding original and unique.

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Letter of Recommendation (LOR) for PhD Students (with Sample) - Need, Parts, Qualities

Letter of Recommendation for PhD Students: For PhD students, a letter of recommendation is a crucial component of the application documents. While other admissions materials, like transcripts and test results, are factual, a letter of recommendation for PhD students integrates the plans and facts of a CV and statement of purpose. A résumé is a summary of your accomplishments, transcripts are evidence of your achievements, and an SOP describes the significance of the course and your readiness for it. A reference letter for a PhD is an unbiased opinion on everything mentioned above. TOP EXAMS : IELTS | TOEFL | GRE | GMAT Country Guide : UK | Ireland | Australia | Canada

What is the need for a letter of recommendation for PhD students

Select the right person to write recommendation letter for phd, letter of recommendation for phd students: qualities to focus on, parts of a lor for phd students, elements of letter of recommendation for ph.d. students.

A PhD application usually requires at least two letters of recommendation for students from their professors. This allows the admission committee to know the applicants as people with skills that would otherwise be difficult to know from their resumes, transcripts and SOP. A letter of recommendation for PhD students should mention at least three qualities of the applicant – a social quality and at least two technical or subject-related qualities.

Moreover, as a PhD is an advanced specialised programme, the subject-related quality should be focused on projects carried out and specialised courses that will aid his/her PhD research. Read the complete article to know all the details about PhD letter of recommendation, PhD reference letter samples, and more.

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Universities inviting applications | Get expert guidance

A recommendation letter for PhD student from professors holds much more importance than those applying for undergraduate or master's courses. Grades and GRE scores play a big role in receiving admission from a university. The recommendation letter for PhD admission is usually the deciding factor when choosing between candidates with similar credentials. Go through the key points to be included in the reference letter for PhD students from the professor to gain an understanding of what it is before you ask your professor to write a PhD reference letter for you.

Before asking someone for a recommendation letter for PhD application, you should know whom to ask. PhD is purely an academic degree and therefore you need to have a recommendation letter for PhD from those who can vouch for your academic inclination and strengths. PhD recommendation letter should be written by academicians with whom you have worked or someone who has supervised or taught you. If you are aspiring for a PhD programme or want a lor for PhD post-doctoral research, you should ideally ask your master's project guide or PhD guide to be one of the referees for your letter of recommendation for PhD students.

Your faculty must go through a sample recommendation letter for a PhD from a professor before sitting down to write one recommendation letter PhD for you. Other letters of recommendation for PhD students from teachers and professionals can be taken from persons who are from the same field or specialization in which you intend to do your PhD. You can also take your recommendation letter for doctoral programs from your supervisor who has an understanding of your academic capabilities.

Friends and relatives are not supposed to write your LOR for PhD students for a number of reasons; first, they do not have first-hand information about your academic capabilities. Second, as they have not professionally or academically worked with you, they would not be able to present relevant information in the PhD letter of recommendation about you. Also, the recommender might not have in-depth knowledge of the discipline you intend to do a PhD. Last but not least, relatives cannot be objective about your qualities. That's why it is not a great idea to take your student recommendation letter from them. So a letter of recommendation for PhD students from teachers, professors, supervisors, coaches, etc., is only applicable.

The person who is writing a letter of recommendation for PhD students would be a professional who has known the applicant academically for no less than one year. The recommender should not only know you as one of the students in the department, but they should also know you as a person, your capabilities as a student, as well as your control over the subject they have been teaching. They should also be aware of your plans.

Recommendation letters for Ph.D. students from supervisors, and professors are very subject-specific. Referees should speak of strong subject knowledge as well as analysis traits. Reference letter for PhD student should show the student as possessing positive qualities like intelligence, self-motivation, responsibility, and amiableness. Emphasis should be given to passion and dedication as well.

Advanced study like a Ph.D. is often a challenging and demanding program. Therefore, the PhD recommendation letter should also display perseverance, competitiveness and the ability to work independently. Courses and knowledge related to PhD programme-related packages, extra courses, and statistical analysis techniques should be exemplified in the letter of recommendation for the PhD program.

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A student recommendation letter for a PhD will typically be between one to two pages. The document of recommendation letter for PhD student should be well differentiated into 5–6 paragraphs. The LOR for PhD should begin with an introductory paragraph about the recommender and his/her association with the applicant. You must read a PDF of the PhD recommendation letter sample before you ask your recommenders to give you one.

The next 3 to 4 paragraphs in the letter of recommendation for PhD program should outline the different academic and social qualities of the applicant with suitable substantiation. No quality should be mentioned without a suitable example. Finally, the concluding paragraph will sum up the above with a line recommending the applicant for the programme.

Also Read, Best Country to Study Abroad for Indian Students

Below is a sample recommendation letter for PhD from a professor. Candidates can refer to it while writing the LOR for PhD students.

Reference letter sample for PhD student

Like there is a letter of recommendation for PhD students from professors, you can also read about PhD reference letter sample pdf, sample LOR for graduate school from coworker pdf, letter of recommendation for PhD in computer science, sample recommendation letter for employee, etc which will give you a fair idea what a recommendation letter is all about.

A recommendation letter for PhD students from a professor or supervisor gives a human touch to the applicant’s profile. A reference letter for PhD student from a professor is the only document that can present the applicant’s social side to the admission committee. Therefore, choose a referee who can not only substantiate your academic strengths but also cite appropriate examples of your social qualities in your recommendation letter for PhD students.

Frequently Asked Question (FAQs)

It is crucial that the person writing your recommendation letter is someone who is familiar with your academic abilities. The most frequent writers of letters of recommendation are academics; professors or supervisors, but, other experts who are familiar with you and have overseen your academic or research work may also be suitable candidates.

The reference letter should be 1-2 pages long with 5-6 paragraphs.

PhD suggestions are highly specialised. Referees should emphasise both analytical skills and in-depth topic understanding. Letters of recommendation for students should highlight their intelligence, initiative, responsibility, and interpersonal skills.

Yes, PhD, postdoc, and scholarship applications typically require two to three letters of recommendation. These letters should come from professors who know your work and can detail your possibilities.

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Data Administrator

Database professionals use software to store and organise data such as financial information, and customer shipping records. Individuals who opt for a career as data administrators ensure that data is available for users and secured from unauthorised sales. DB administrators may work in various types of industries. It may involve computer systems design, service firms, insurance companies, banks and hospitals.

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The field of biomedical engineering opens up a universe of expert chances. An Individual in the biomedical engineering career path work in the field of engineering as well as medicine, in order to find out solutions to common problems of the two fields. The biomedical engineering job opportunities are to collaborate with doctors and researchers to develop medical systems, equipment, or devices that can solve clinical problems. Here we will be discussing jobs after biomedical engineering, how to get a job in biomedical engineering, biomedical engineering scope, and salary. 

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A career as ethical hacker involves various challenges and provides lucrative opportunities in the digital era where every giant business and startup owns its cyberspace on the world wide web. Individuals in the ethical hacker career path try to find the vulnerabilities in the cyber system to get its authority. If he or she succeeds in it then he or she gets its illegal authority. Individuals in the ethical hacker career path then steal information or delete the file that could affect the business, functioning, or services of the organization.

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Speech therapist, gynaecologist.

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An oncologist is a specialised doctor responsible for providing medical care to patients diagnosed with cancer. He or she uses several therapies to control the cancer and its effect on the human body such as chemotherapy, immunotherapy, radiation therapy and biopsy. An oncologist designs a treatment plan based on a pathology report after diagnosing the type of cancer and where it is spreading inside the body.

Are you searching for an ‘Anatomist job description’? An Anatomist is a research professional who applies the laws of biological science to determine the ability of bodies of various living organisms including animals and humans to regenerate the damaged or destroyed organs. If you want to know what does an anatomist do, then read the entire article, where we will answer all your questions.

For an individual who opts for a career as an actor, the primary responsibility is to completely speak to the character he or she is playing and to persuade the crowd that the character is genuine by connecting with them and bringing them into the story. This applies to significant roles and littler parts, as all roles join to make an effective creation. Here in this article, we will discuss how to become an actor in India, actor exams, actor salary in India, and actor jobs. 

Individuals who opt for a career as acrobats create and direct original routines for themselves, in addition to developing interpretations of existing routines. The work of circus acrobats can be seen in a variety of performance settings, including circus, reality shows, sports events like the Olympics, movies and commercials. Individuals who opt for a career as acrobats must be prepared to face rejections and intermittent periods of work. The creativity of acrobats may extend to other aspects of the performance. For example, acrobats in the circus may work with gym trainers, celebrities or collaborate with other professionals to enhance such performance elements as costume and or maybe at the teaching end of the career.

Video Game Designer

Career as a video game designer is filled with excitement as well as responsibilities. A video game designer is someone who is involved in the process of creating a game from day one. He or she is responsible for fulfilling duties like designing the character of the game, the several levels involved, plot, art and similar other elements. Individuals who opt for a career as a video game designer may also write the codes for the game using different programming languages.

Depending on the video game designer job description and experience they may also have to lead a team and do the early testing of the game in order to suggest changes and find loopholes.

Radio Jockey

Radio Jockey is an exciting, promising career and a great challenge for music lovers. If you are really interested in a career as radio jockey, then it is very important for an RJ to have an automatic, fun, and friendly personality. If you want to get a job done in this field, a strong command of the language and a good voice are always good things. Apart from this, in order to be a good radio jockey, you will also listen to good radio jockeys so that you can understand their style and later make your own by practicing.

A career as radio jockey has a lot to offer to deserving candidates. If you want to know more about a career as radio jockey, and how to become a radio jockey then continue reading the article.

Choreographer

The word “choreography" actually comes from Greek words that mean “dance writing." Individuals who opt for a career as a choreographer create and direct original dances, in addition to developing interpretations of existing dances. A Choreographer dances and utilises his or her creativity in other aspects of dance performance. For example, he or she may work with the music director to select music or collaborate with other famous choreographers to enhance such performance elements as lighting, costume and set design.

Social Media Manager

A career as social media manager involves implementing the company’s or brand’s marketing plan across all social media channels. Social media managers help in building or improving a brand’s or a company’s website traffic, build brand awareness, create and implement marketing and brand strategy. Social media managers are key to important social communication as well.

Photographer

Photography is considered both a science and an art, an artistic means of expression in which the camera replaces the pen. In a career as a photographer, an individual is hired to capture the moments of public and private events, such as press conferences or weddings, or may also work inside a studio, where people go to get their picture clicked. Photography is divided into many streams each generating numerous career opportunities in photography. With the boom in advertising, media, and the fashion industry, photography has emerged as a lucrative and thrilling career option for many Indian youths.

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Copy Writer

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In a career as a vlogger, one generally works for himself or herself. However, once an individual has gained viewership there are several brands and companies that approach them for paid collaboration. It is one of those fields where an individual can earn well while following his or her passion. 

Ever since internet costs got reduced the viewership for these types of content has increased on a large scale. Therefore, a career as a vlogger has a lot to offer. If you want to know more about the Vlogger eligibility, roles and responsibilities then continue reading the article. 

For publishing books, newspapers, magazines and digital material, editorial and commercial strategies are set by publishers. Individuals in publishing career paths make choices about the markets their businesses will reach and the type of content that their audience will be served. Individuals in book publisher careers collaborate with editorial staff, designers, authors, and freelance contributors who develop and manage the creation of content.

Careers in journalism are filled with excitement as well as responsibilities. One cannot afford to miss out on the details. As it is the small details that provide insights into a story. Depending on those insights a journalist goes about writing a news article. A journalism career can be stressful at times but if you are someone who is passionate about it then it is the right choice for you. If you want to know more about the media field and journalist career then continue reading this article.

Individuals in the editor career path is an unsung hero of the news industry who polishes the language of the news stories provided by stringers, reporters, copywriters and content writers and also news agencies. Individuals who opt for a career as an editor make it more persuasive, concise and clear for readers. In this article, we will discuss the details of the editor's career path such as how to become an editor in India, editor salary in India and editor skills and qualities.

Individuals who opt for a career as a reporter may often be at work on national holidays and festivities. He or she pitches various story ideas and covers news stories in risky situations. Students can pursue a BMC (Bachelor of Mass Communication) , B.M.M. (Bachelor of Mass Media) , or  MAJMC (MA in Journalism and Mass Communication) to become a reporter. While we sit at home reporters travel to locations to collect information that carries a news value.  

Corporate Executive

Are you searching for a Corporate Executive job description? A Corporate Executive role comes with administrative duties. He or she provides support to the leadership of the organisation. A Corporate Executive fulfils the business purpose and ensures its financial stability. In this article, we are going to discuss how to become corporate executive.

Multimedia Specialist

A multimedia specialist is a media professional who creates, audio, videos, graphic image files, computer animations for multimedia applications. He or she is responsible for planning, producing, and maintaining websites and applications. 

Quality Controller

A quality controller plays a crucial role in an organisation. He or she is responsible for performing quality checks on manufactured products. He or she identifies the defects in a product and rejects the product. 

A quality controller records detailed information about products with defects and sends it to the supervisor or plant manager to take necessary actions to improve the production process.

Production Manager

A QA Lead is in charge of the QA Team. The role of QA Lead comes with the responsibility of assessing services and products in order to determine that he or she meets the quality standards. He or she develops, implements and manages test plans. 

Process Development Engineer

The Process Development Engineers design, implement, manufacture, mine, and other production systems using technical knowledge and expertise in the industry. They use computer modeling software to test technologies and machinery. An individual who is opting career as Process Development Engineer is responsible for developing cost-effective and efficient processes. They also monitor the production process and ensure it functions smoothly and efficiently.

AWS Solution Architect

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Azure Administrator

An Azure Administrator is a professional responsible for implementing, monitoring, and maintaining Azure Solutions. He or she manages cloud infrastructure service instances and various cloud servers as well as sets up public and private cloud systems. 

Computer Programmer

Careers in computer programming primarily refer to the systematic act of writing code and moreover include wider computer science areas. The word 'programmer' or 'coder' has entered into practice with the growing number of newly self-taught tech enthusiasts. Computer programming careers involve the use of designs created by software developers and engineers and transforming them into commands that can be implemented by computers. These commands result in regular usage of social media sites, word-processing applications and browsers.

Information Security Manager

Individuals in the information security manager career path involves in overseeing and controlling all aspects of computer security. The IT security manager job description includes planning and carrying out security measures to protect the business data and information from corruption, theft, unauthorised access, and deliberate attack 

ITSM Manager

Automation test engineer.

An Automation Test Engineer job involves executing automated test scripts. He or she identifies the project’s problems and troubleshoots them. The role involves documenting the defect using management tools. He or she works with the application team in order to resolve any issues arising during the testing process. 

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References For Your PhD Application

Do not underestimate the power your academic references hold – they are one of the most important parts of the entire application, and can prove to be key in making your PhD application successful.

Within your chosen subject area, staff from all over the world are thrown together at conferences, meaning there's a good chance at least some people in your department will know of a prospective project supervisor. A well-written reference can emphasise your skills and abilities, as well as make up for any weaknesses in an average academic profile.

Therefore, it's extremely important that you choose the right people, ask them politely if they would mind giving you a reference, and make sure they have plenty of time to do you justice.

It's best to try and pick members of staff who have taught you, have read and marked work you have produced, and know you quite well as a person.

It also helps if they have strong connections with your chosen topic and if they are well-known in the field.

However, finding all these factors in potentially up to 3 different people is unfortunately quite unlikely.

Help your referees as much as possible by always offering them samples of your best work and a copy of your personal statement.

You should also try to pay a visit in person so you can have a face-to-face discussion about your goals and reasons for wanting to undertake doctoral study.

The better the picture you can provide of yourself, and more they can write about you and your good qualities! If you are currently studying a Masters programme and you haven't had much contact with staff so far, you may have to spend a bit more and effort on finding suitable referees.

Normally you will find there is someone in the department who is assigned the task of writing references (usually the course director) if you fail to find any suitable members of staff.

However, you should also consider asking personal tutors, subject tutors, staff who teach in your subject area, or any undergraduate tutors who have taught you in the past.

As long as you give yourself plenty of time, finding referees shouldn't be too much of a problem - staff will usually empathise with those who have just started a Masters and are trying to secure a good reference for their doctoral studies. Choosing a good referee that will provide you with an excellent reference allows a selection panel to see that you are hard working, committed, and have shown significant interest in the subject area.

Again, pick your referees carefully, as they can usually make or break a PhD application.

Further information

For more tips and advice on applying for a PhD, please see:

• PhD entry requirements
• How to apply for a PhD
• Choosing a topic
• Choosing a supervisor
• Writing a personal statement
• Writing a CV
• Research proposals

Letters of Recommendation

Instructions on obtaining letters of recommendation

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Before applying, confirm that three faculty members or others qualified to evaluate your potential for graduate study have agreed to submit letters of recommendation on your behalf. At least one letter should be from a faculty member at the school where you earned your most recent degree, unless you have been out of school for more than five years. 

Your recommenders must submit their letters through the recommender portal by the application deadline: Harvard Griffin GSAS does not accept letters submitted via email, mail, or a dossier service. 

During the application process, you will be asked whether you wish to waive your right to see these letters. By law, enrolled students have the right to view their letters of recommendation unless they indicate otherwise at the time of application. Learn more about your right to inspect letters of recommendation . 

Can I submit my application before my recommenders submit their letters? 

Yes. Please remember that letters of recommendation must be received by the graduate program’s application deadline. 

How many letters of recommendation can be included in my application? 

Harvard Griffin GSAS requires three letters of recommendation. You may ask additional recommenders to submit letters if you choose, however, it is not guaranteed that the admissions committee will review additional letters. 

What if my recommender is unable to submit a letter in English?

If you have a recommender who is unable to submit a letter in English, they can choose to obtain a certified English translation of their letter. The recommender would need to upload a copy of their original letter in the language it was written, a copy of the English translation of the letter, and verification from the professional translator certifying the translation. Translations must be literal and complete versions of the original record. Harvard Griffin GSAS does not endorse a specific translator or translation service.

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Sample Recommendation Letter for Graduate School

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Whether you're applying to business school, medical school, law school, or another program, scholarship, or fellowship , most graduate school applicants are going to need two to three letters of recommendation that will be submitted to the admissions committee (along with your undergraduate transcripts, standardized test scores, essays, etc.) as part of the application process .

Not every school requires letters of recommendation. You can often get by without one at some online schools and even brick-and-mortar schools that have more relaxed admission requirements. However, schools with highly competitive admissions processes (i.e. the ones that get a lot of applicants but don't have classroom space for everyone) use recommendation letters, in part, to determine whether or not you are a fit for their school.

Why Graduate Schools Ask for Recommendations

Graduate schools seek recommendations for the same reason employers require career references. They want to know what people who have seen your work and experienced your efforts firsthand have to say about you. Nearly every other resource you provide to a school is a first-person accounting. Your résumé is your interpretation of your career achievements, your essay answers a question with your opinion or tells a story from your point of view, and your admissions interview includes questions that, again, are answered from your point of view. A recommendation letter, on the other hand, is all about someone else's perspective on you, your potential, and your accomplishments. 

Most graduate schools encourage you to choose a reference who knows you well. This ensures that their letter of recommendation will actually have substance and won't simply be full of fluff or vague opinions about your work attitude and academic performance. Someone who knows you well will be able to provide well-informed opinions and concrete examples to back them up. 

Sample Letter of Recommendation for Grad School

This is a sample recommendation for a graduate school applicant was written by the applicant's college dean, who was familiar with the applicant's academic achievements. The letter is short but does an ample job of emphasizing things that would be important to a graduate school admissions committee, such as GPA, work ethic, and leadership ability. Notice how the writer includes plenty of adjectives to describe the person being recommended. There's also an example of how the subject's leadership capability has helped others.

To Whom It May Concern:

As the Dean of Stonewell College, I have had the pleasure of knowing Hannah Smith for the last four years. She has been a tremendous student and an asset to our school. I would like to take this opportunity to recommend Hannah for your graduate program.

I feel confident that she will continue to succeed in her studies. Hannah is a dedicated student and thus far, her grades have been exemplary. In class, she has proven to be a take-charge person who is able to successfully develop plans and implement them.

Hannah has also assisted us in our admissions office. She has successfully demonstrated leadership ability by counseling new and prospective students. Her advice has been a great help to these students, many of whom have taken time to share their comments with me regarding her pleasant and encouraging attitude.

It is for these reasons that I offer high recommendations for Hannah without reservation. Her drive and abilities will truly be an asset to your establishment. If you have any questions regarding this recommendation, please do not hesitate to contact me.

Roger Fleming

Dean of Stonewell College

As positive as this letter is, it would have been even stronger if the writer had provided additional specific examples of his student's achievements, or had pointed to quantifiable results. For example, he could have included the numbers of students the subject had worked with or detailed specific instances in which she had helped others. Examples of any plans she'd developed, how she implemented them, and what the outcome was once they were put to use would have been useful as well. The more detailed the letter, the more likely it is to tip the admissions scale in your favor.

• Sample Recommendation Letters for College Applicants
• How to Get Recommendation Letters for Grad School
• College Recommendation Letter Do's and Don'ts
• Sample Business School Recommendation Letter
• 4 Recommendation Letter Samples That Get It Right
• Should You Ask a Teaching Assistant for a Recommendation Letter?
• NonTraditional Applicants to Grad School: 3 Tips for Getting Recommendations
• How to Get a Recommendation Letter for Graduate School
• Grad School Recommendation Letter by a Professor Sample Template
• Sample Recommendation Letter for Fellowship Applicant
• Sample Graduate School Recommendation Letters
• A Guide to Writing Recommendation Letters
• Letters of Recommendation for MBA Applicants
• Should You Get a Recommendation for Grad School from Your Therapist?
• Sample Poor Letter of Recommendation
• Applying to Graduate School: What You Need to Know

• Letter of Recommendation FAQs

All letters must be submitted by your provider online. There are no exceptions to this policy.

• PhD/Master's Application Process
• Admissions - Frequently Asked Questions

Q: How does the letter of recommendation process work?

When you fill out an application, you will be asked to enter contact information for your recommenders. Your recommenders will then receive a notification email with instructions for uploading their letter. Please note:

• Letters of recommendation will be automatically attached to your application as soon as they are submitted. 
• You may view the status of letters of recommendation within your application or from your Application Status Portal.

Q: How many recommendation letters are required?

The number of letters required varies by application type.

• For degree programs, three letters of recommendation are required. (To a maximum of five).
• For non-degree programs, two letters of recommendation are required.

Q: One of my recommenders wishes to submit the recommendation for me in paper form only. Is that OK?

Unfortunately, no. We will only accept letters submitted online.

If your recommender is only willing to provide a paper letter, you may want to consider a different recommender, as paper letters will not be considered. 

Q: Can I add a recommender after I submit my application?

From your Application Status Portal, you will be able to remind, add, or exclude a recommender. This feature is no longer available once the minimum required number of recommendations (3) has been received. 

Q: Can I delete a recommender?

Yes, you may “Exclude” a recommender from within your application or on your Application Status Portal. 

Q: I started an application last year and requested letters of recommendation that were submitted. Can those letters be attached to the new application I will be preparing for this coming year?

Unfortunately, no. You will have to identify your recommenders again in your current year application. Your recommenders will have to submit recommendations again.

Q: Will Yale GSAS accept letters of recommendation from a dossier service such as Interfolio?

Yes. We will accept letters of recommendation from Interfolio or other dossier services that have the ability to upload a letter directly to our online recommendation system on behalf of a faculty member. In such cases, please enter the dossier service-specific email address provided by the recommender when adding a recommender for your application.

Please be advised that dossier services generally will not fill out optional questions on our recommendation form, including ratings of your Academic Performance, Intellectual Potential, and Motivation for the Proposed Program of Study.

Paper letters and emailed PDFs are not acceptable. 

Q: I have been out of school for some time. May my recommenders be those who can attest to my professional work?

Yes; however, we suggest that at least one recommendation should originate from a faculty member of the last institution you attended as a full-time student. This is not mandatory and may not be feasible if you have been out of school for a number of years.

Q: One of my recommenders did not receive an email or is having trouble accessing the online recommendation system.

Once you enter your recommender’s information (including email address) and select “Send to Recommender,” an email is automatically generated and sent to your recommender. If your recommender does not receive the email, it is possible that their email provider is blocking the email. You may try resending the email or excluding the recommender and adding them again with a different email address. 

Q: Is there a deadline for letters of recommendation?

Recommenders may upload letters after the program deadline. We will add their letters to your application for review as soon as they arrive. Some programs begin reviewing applications right away, so it is best for recommenders to submit letters as soon as they are able. Please note that we only accept letters uploaded online; we do not accept mailed or faxed letters of recommendation.  

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Sample Reference Letter

Reference letter for a phd candidate.

A successful application to a PhD program almost always requires letters of recommendation from former university lecturers and professors. They are the main point of reference when it comes to assessing an applicant's qualification for a PhD program. The letter below is a good example for a former MSc student, who now wants to pursue a PhD in the same field. It is already somewhat specifically addressed, as it directly refers to a doctorare degree in Linguistics.

Dear Sir or Madam,

it is my pleasure to acquaint you with one of my most outstanding students, Ravi Egilsson, who is keen to pursue the Doctor of Philosophy in Linguistics at your esteemed institution.

I have known Ravi since 2010, when he enrolled into the Master of Science in Speech Analytics here at Oxbridge University. As part of this programme, Ravi took my course on Automated Speech Processing and joined my practical seminar on Pattern Processing. I also supervised him for his thesis project, a smartphone app that can translate a range of simple infant phonetisms into spoken language.

Ravi presented outstanding commitment to his studies, and finished his degree within the top 10% of his class. He was a quite remarkable student with a strong research interest. Among his peers, he stood out by always being up-to-date with currently topical discussions even within niches of linguistical research. The quality of his research work on his thesis project was compelling, and he managed to find beautifully simple solutions to very challenging problems.

With his multicultural background and fluent proficiency of English, Swedish and Hindi he was able to approach many scientific questions from different angles. During the courses, he always made many valuable contributions to group discussions. Finally, it should not be left unmentioned that Ravi is a very pleasant person to work with.

I respect Ravi's decision to further pursue his specific research interests at your university, and I am confident that he will be a highly valuable addition to your PhD program, where he could develop and apply his extraordinary talents. Furthermore, I am certain that he would qualify for any means of financial aid that you could offer him, and I also strongly recommend him for a position as a teaching or research assistant. Should you have any questions with regards to Ravi Egilsson, I will be pleased to answer them.

Klemens Rapper

Professor Oxbridge University

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How to Write a Data Management Plan During Grant Application

Along with other essential requisites of a grant application, funders are increasingly mandating applicants to submit data management plan (DMP). A funding proposal can be considered as a preliminary outline plan for a comprehensive data management plan.

According to European Commission Horizon 2020, project data must be made openly available to promote data sharing and ethical stewardship of data by researchers.

Table of Contents

What is Data Management Plan?

Data management plan is a detailed supplementary document that explains the reason for selecting particular formats, approaches, standards, and methodologies of your project. Despite being a detailed document, it must not be longer than two pages. The main purpose of this plan is to describe the kinds of produced data, its management, and its availability and accessibility to other researchers.

Ideally, it must answer the following questions:

• What kinds of data does your research produce?
• How will the data be collected or created?
• Who is responsible for data ownership?
• What standards and formats will be used for data and metadata?
• What are the policies and restrictions that exist for accessing and sharing data?
• How do you plan to archive and preserve data, samples and other research products?

Why is it Important to Create a Data Management Plan?

To begin with, creating a data management plan is so important that some funding agencies do not accept proposals that does not include it. Moreover, a proposal must include a DMP even if no data are produced.

Furthermore, it is important because of the following reasons:

• It increases impact and discoverability of your research with data citations that it gets.
• A DMP provides evidence for your research in relation with already published results.
• It ensures copyright and ethical compliance.
• It also helps in archiving and preserving data for long-term.
• Most importantly, it enables you to share your data with other researchers and benefit interdisciplinary research.

What are the Elements of a Data Management Plan?

It is imperative to generate a DMP that supports reuse of data beyond the project’s life. While there isn’t an official template to create a DMP, grant applicants must address the key elements mentioned below:

1. Data Description

It is a brief description of the gathered information. This section must include the amount of data to be produced , its nature, and kind of data that is expected to be generated and collected during the course of project. Types of data to include in this section are text, curriculum materials, spreadsheets, images, 3D models, software, audio files, video files, field observation reports, surveys, assessment records, etc. Lastly, and most importantly, you must cite and give due credit while integrating data that has been already published by others.

2. Metadata and Format

This section includes description of the format of your data and how it will be created, collated, maintained, and delivered. Furthermore, it includes a justification for all procedural and archival appropriateness of formats. The purpose of this section is to deliver understandable results to other researchers.  Additionally, you must include steps taken to comply with experimental procedures of your project.

3. Archiving and Preservation

The archiving and preservation section discusses long-term strategy for maintaining, curating, and archiving the data. It must include storage methods, backup procedures and resources to retrieve research data. You must address where your data will be deposited (name the archive, repository, or database). Additionally, mention procedures that your intended long-term storage site must preserve. It is also essential to state the retention period of data that will be available to access beyond the life of the project.

4. Security, Access, and Sharing

This section describes technical and procedural protections for information, including confidential information, and how permissions, restrictions, etc. will be enforced. In addition, you must include how and when the data will be available to access. You must address following issues in this section:

• Resources required to make the data available.
• Process for gaining access to the data.
• Whether the data will be chargeable or not.
• The duration for which the principal investigator retains the right to use data before it is available for mass distribution.
• Details related to hindrance caused due to commercial, patent, or political reasons.
• List of federal and funding requirements for data sharing and management.

5. Ethics and Privacy

The ethics and privacy section of this plan discusses how do the applicants plan to handle informed consent and how will the privacy of such data be protected. It must include all arrangements such as protection of participant confidentiality or other ethical issues that may arise.

6. Intellectual Property Rights

Information of individuals or entities that hold the intellectual property rights to the data must be included in this section. Likewise, measures to protect these IP rights and copyright constraints must be noted clearly.

7. Roles and Responsibility

Naming individuals responsible for data management is crucial in a DMP. These individuals must have a significant role and must be responsible for managing data during the project, with information about version control, naming conventions, etc.

The budget section must not be confused with that of a grant proposal. This one includes costs of preparing data and documentation for archiving.

How to Write a Data Management Plan?

• Use standard or widely adopted formats for easy sharing and storage.
• Check preferred formats while depositing your data in discipline or institutional archives.
• Do not forget to state the expected data outputs.
• Mention the volume, type, content, quality, and format of the final dataset.
• Outline the metadata and documentation to make the data easily comprehendible.
• State the standards and methodologies used to collate and manage data.
• Give credit to persisting data while pointing out its relation to your data.
• All collaborative proposals or sub-awards are treated as a unified project. Hence, they must be combined in a single DMP.

Although a supplementary document, we know that data management plan can have a strong impact on the acceptance of your grant proposal. Did this help you in understanding the nuances of writing a DMP? How have you been structuring your DMPs? Let us know in the comments section below!

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PhD Resume Examples & Templates

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A PhD resume is an abstract of your career: a concise summary of your strongest skills, relevant qualifications and educational background. It should present enough information to catch the reader’s attention without being overwhelming. Whether you want to continue a career in academia or highlight your expertise to start a new chapter in your professional life, we can help you build a PhD resume for the industry to take you to the next level.

With this guide, you’ll have PhD resume examples and a better understanding of how to write a PhD resume, according to your doctorate stage. Start the next step of your career with the PhD resume example. Start by editing this PhD resume sample template, or explore our 40+ resume templates to find the best one for you. 

Start by editing this PhD resume sample template, or explore our 40+ resume templates to find the best one for you.

PhD resume example (text version)

Sandy Mixon

Philadelphia, PA 19111 (555) 555-5555 [email protected]

Professional Summary

Dedicated and results-oriented sociology Ph.D. student passionate about social research and analysis. Possesses a strong foundation in qualitative and quantitative methodologies and extensive experience in conducting fieldwork and data analysis. Proven ability to communicate complex sociological concepts effectively and collaborate with diverse teams. Seeking opportunities to contribute expertise in sociology to impactful research projects and academic endeavors.

• Quantitative and qualitative methods
• Data analysis (SPSS, NVivo)
• Sociological theory and concepts
• Survey design and implementation
• Academic writing and publishing
• Teaching and instruction
• Project management
• Cross-cultural communication

Expected in June 2025 University of Pennsylvania Philadelphia, PA Ph.D. Sociology GPA:3.7 American Sociological Association (ASA)

June 2022 University of Pennsylvania Philadelphia, PA Master of Science Social Policy GPA: 3.7 High Thesis Honor Magna cum laude Eastern Sociological Society (ESS)

June 2017 Drexel University Philadelphia, PA Bachelor of Arts Sociology GPA:3.79 Magna cum laude Society for the Study of Social Problems

Work History

November 2022 – Current Temple University – Philadelphia, PA Research Assistant

• Conduct literature reviews and synthesize research findings to support faculty-led research projects.
• Manage survey responses from over 2,000 participants, achieving a response rate of 65% and performing statistical analysis using SPSS.
• Conduct a comparative analysis of survey data from 500 families, identifying cultural variations in parenting styles and familial relationships.

September 2019 – October 2022 University Of Pennsylvania – Philadelphia, PA Teaching Assistant

• Mentored 15 undergraduate students in their independent research projects, increasing 20% of student participation in sociology conferences.
• Developed and implemented course materials, including lectures, assignments and assessments, increasing 25% of student engagement.
• Conducted pre- and post-workshop assessments, demonstrating a 30% improvement in participants’ proficiency in data manipulation and statistical analysis.

June 2016 – August 2019 Drexel University – Philadelphia, PA Social Research Assistant

• Designed and conducted qualitative interviews with diverse populations to explore social attitudes and behaviors.
• Analyzed interview transcripts using thematic analysis techniques, identifying key themes and patterns.
• Conducted comprehensive qualitative interviews with a diverse sample of 200 participants, achieving a 95% response rate.

Research Experience

• Developed research statements and ran surveys and interviews as a research lead in “Identifying Social Trends in Generation Alpha” (2023) at Temple University.
• Participated in 50 interviews as research lead in “Sociology in Contemporary Culture” (2022) at Drexel University.
• Managed operational documents for a team of 25 and produced monthly reports detailing activities as a research assistant in “Economy, Sociology and Roles Today” (2021) at Drexel University.

Certifications

• Certificate in Advanced Quantitative Methods in Social Sciences – (2023)
• Certificate in Qualitative Research Methods – (2022)
• Certified Sociological Researcher (CSR) – (202)

Publications

• Mixon, Sandy. 2023. How the Economy Dictates Your Social Interactions. Philadelphia City Globe (9), 120-121.
• Mixon, Sandy. 2022. Comparing Urban Studies: Academic Views of the City. American Sociological Journal (5), 95-97.
• Mixon, Sandy. 2019. The Impact of Social Media on Social Movements: A Comparative Study. Philadelphia City Globe (4), 180-197.

5 essentials of the best PhD resumes

 header with contact details.

Start with the simple: a bold header with a professional resume font . It must include your name, phone number, professional email address, location and ZIP code. If you have a professional networking profile, like LinkedIn, Bold.pro or through a professional organization, include it in this section. 

Personal statement

Your PhD resume professional summary is your introduction. In three sentences, it should tell the reader who you are as a professional. The career summary must include your years of experience, your strongest skill — relevant to the application— and an important accomplishment or two. 

You can use this formula: 

[Descriptive word] [Your job title] [Experience level] [Work experience] [Skills] [Achievement]

You should always customize the summary for each application, for example, by highlighting a different skill or showcasing a more relevant accomplishment. 

The skills section is an essential component of your resume for a PhD application.It should encompass what you bring to the table by including hard skills — those relevant to your industry— and soft skills — those that show how you work and how you relate to others. Write 6 to 12 of these core competencies and match as many as you can to the application. 

When you’re applying for your first role outside of academia, your PhD student resume can showcase transferable skills relevant to your industry. 

Work history

Create your work history section for PhD resume using resume keywords . Write your work history in reverse-chronological order, starting with your current or most recent position. 

For each position, include three quantifiable accomplishments, the employer’s name, location and dates of employment. If you have any, highlight your research experience, collaborations, publications and presentations. Include any grants or awards you have received for your research. 

For example:

Research Assistant 

Colgate University | 2016-present

• Conducted literature reviews, collected and analyzed data, and wrote research reports for multiple ongoing projects.
• Collaborated with senior researchers to develop and implement research protocols, resulting in a 25% increase in efficiency.
• Co-authored several peer-reviewed publications, including a first-author paper in a top-ranked journal in the field.

If this is your first job, include relevant work experience highlighting qualifications for the opportunity you seek.

Start with your PhD and work your way backward. Include the institution’s name, your degree and graduation year. If your dissertation strengthens your resume, include it as well. 

Doctor of Philosophy in Neuroscience University of California, Los Angeles (2022) Doctoral Dissertation: “Investigating the Role of Neurotransmitters in Synaptic Plasticity” Advisor: Dr. John Smith

If you’re still pursuing your degree, include it as PhD in progress alongside the expected graduation date. Depending on your application, you can name this section Academic Background.

See why My Perfect Resume is a 5-star resume builder

Action words for a standout phd resumes.

Action verbs empower your PhD achievements. Use them to present your accomplishments from your PhD experience and other employment. 

While your achievements should include verbs, you should consider including a few of these action verbs related to your PhD resume for the industry, like: 

• Coordinated
• Collaborated
• Experimented
• Investigated
• Constructed
• Facilitated
• Implemented

Our Resume Builder will help you write a PhD resume in no time, using strong action verbs to present your achievements and qualifications. You can use our expert suggestions, edit to your personal style and download your finished product once it meets your expectations. We offer over 800+ resume examples to create your perfect PhD resume.

Top skills for a PhD resume

Craft a skills section showcasing your top strengths to catch the recruiter’s eye. Refer to the application description for your PhD resume to align their necessary qualifications with your own. 

Your skills might include:

• Research and analysis
• Critical thinking
• Data analysis and interpretation
• Problem-solving
• Experimental design
• Technical writing
• Written and oral communication
• Collaboration and teamwork
• Attention to detail
• Time management
• Creative thinking
• Adaptability
• Statistical analysis
• Programming (e.g., R, Python)
• Multitasking
• Presentation skills
• Grant writing
• Teaching and mentoring

Always tailor this section, and the entire resume, to the application for your PhD resume.

Certifications for a PhD resume

Certifications are a great addition to any resume, even for someone who has achieved or is in the process of completing a doctorate degree. They expand one’s subject knowledge and highlight one’s broader skill set. 

There are different types of certifications to consider for your PhD resume for your industry according to your degree and the industry you’re interested in:

• Professional certifications related to the field of study – e.g., Certified Public Accountant (CPA) for accounting, Professional Engineer (PE) for engineering, Certified Information Systems Security Professional (CISSP) for computer science
• Teaching certifications – e.g., Teaching English as a Foreign Language (TEFL) for English language teaching, Certified Online Instructor (COI) for online teaching
• Research certifications – e.g., Good Clinical Practice (GCP) for clinical research, Certified Clinical Research Professional (CCRP) for clinical research management
• Leadership and management certifications – e.g., Project Management Professional (PMP) for project management, Certified Agile Leader (CAL) for agile leadership
• Industry-specific certifications – e.g., Certified Financial Planner (CFP) for finance, Certified Medical Practice Executive (CMPE) for healthcare management
• Language certifications – e.g., Test of English as a Foreign Language (TOEFL) for English proficiency, Diplôme d’Etudes en Langue Française (DELF) for French proficiency
• Technology certifications – e.g., Oracle Certified Professional (OCP) for database administration, Microsoft Certified Solutions Expert (MCSE) for IT infrastructure

Include certifications relevant to the application, whether a job, research program or PhD application. Also, remember to include the expiration date, if applicable, to the certification. 

Pair your resume with a matching cover letter

How to write a phd resume.

How to include your PhD in your resume boils down to the application you’re seeking. 

• If having a PhD is critical to the application, include it in your career summary, education section and work experience. 
• If you’re looking for an opportunity that doesn’t depend on a doctorate or believe it could present you as an overqualified candidate, include it solely in your education section.

How to write a PhD candidate’s resume?

If you’re still pursuing your degree, you can include it in your education section by adding “in progress” or including the expected graduation year. 

For example: 

PhD in Education (Expected May 2024) Johns Hopkins School of Education Baltimore, Md

If relevant to the application, include it in your professional summary, like so: 

Professional Summary Highly motivated and detail-oriented PhD candidate with expertise in research and analysis, experimental design, technical writing and data interpretation. Proficient in statistical analysis and programming languages such as R and Python.

How to write a resume for a PhD application?

If you are applying for a PhD program, your resume should showcase your academic background, research experience and relevant skills.

• Start with a professional header including your contact information.
• Include a professional summary, following our formula above, to introduce yourself.
• Present your academic background, including relevant coursework, research experience and any awards.
• A robust skills section with your strongest skills relevant to the program.
• Any professional experience with quantifiable resume accomplishments and transferable skills that will help you succeed in the program. 

Once you have these sections in order, include additional sections to help you stand out: awards, memberships, volunteer work and, if relevant to the application, hobbies . 

How to list a master’s degree post on a PhD resume?

The Ph.D. resume education section prioritizes your highest degree, your Ph.D. If you list any additional master’s, make it clear that the degree was obtained after your Ph.D. You could list it as “Master of Science (Obtained Post-PhD)” or “Master of Arts (Earned After Ph.D).”

When to use a resume or CV for PhD researchers?

Use the application guidelines to choose between a CV vs resume . Follow their instructions to a tee, as your PhD application will be the first impression. If you’re concerned about the amount of content you must include, remember you can write a 2-page resume.

How to list an incomplete PhD on a resume?

There are two options to list an incomplete PhD on a resume:

• Include it as part of your education as PhD coursework in [field].
• Add more details, like your focus and credit hours using the previous format. 

There is no need to include this information if you’re uncomfortable discussing your situation during an interview. If you choose to include it, keep it relevant to the application, focus on what you accomplished and the skills you gained and be transparent about your situation; life happens. 

Keep in mind that you can write a cover letter to include with your application. It can help take control of the narrative by addressing any issues and show the hiring manager your qualifications are what they need.

What to include on a resume for an industry PhD?

Here are some key elements to include on your resume:

• Professional summary: A brief statement summarizing your academic background, expertise, and career objectives.
• Education: List your PhD degree, the university or institution you attended, and the graduation date.
• Skills: Detail your proficiency in specific laboratory techniques, software programs, or other relevant technical skills. Emphasize your skills that are transferable to the industry, such as project management, data analysis, communication, teamwork, problem-solving and leadership.
• Professional experience: Highlight relevant industry or academic experience, including internships, research assistantships, or teaching positions.

Once you have the basics, move on to sections to set you apart from the candidate pool. 

• Publications and presentations: Include a list of your published research papers, conference presentations and posters, and any awards or honors you’ve received. You can create a separate section to bring special attention to this work, and include it under your education or as one of your professional experience bullet points.  
• Certifications and training: List any relevant certifications or training programs demonstrating your expertise in a specific area.
• Volunteer work and community involvement: Include any volunteer or community work that may demonstrate your commitment to the field and your ability to work with others.
• Professional memberships: List any professional organizations or associations you belong to and any leadership roles you’ve held within these groups.

What does the average PhD resume look like?

A PhD resume should be clean, easy to read and highlight the most important skills and experiences. To achieve this:

• Find a good resume font for readability and spacing.
• Use bullet points to make it scannable and fit all your qualifications.
• Focus on achievements rather than just responsibilities and tasks.

Our 40+ resume template collection offers professionally designed options to fit your style, and our ATS resume checker helps optimize your professional document.

What format should a PhD resume use?

You can choose from three formats for your PhD resume. Consider your years of experience to pick the format that highlights your strengths. 

• For 10+ years of experience, use the chronological resume format , which focuses on your work experience.
• If you’re starting your career, the functional resume format will focus on skills and abilities, not your lack of experience.

For candidates with three to nine years of experience, a combination resume format will balance the skills and experience.

Do’s and don’ts for building a PhD resume

• Use measurable achievements to describe your PhD resume skills and experience.
• Use action words to make an impact on your PhD resume.
• Tailor your resume to your target PhD job.
• Use keywords from the job description throughout your PhD resume.
• Format your PhD resume so that it’s easy to read by ATS software and human eyes.
• Lie about your PhD resume experience and skills.
• Boast about your “incomparable” PhD resume abilities.
• Include irrelevant personal information such as your ethnicity and age.
• Add skills and experience that do not pertain to a PhD role.
• Forget to proofread. A PhD resume with errors is unprofessional and will get discarded.

PhD interview tips

Research the company before your interview..

As a PhD student, you understand the importance of research. Put those skills to practice and learn as much as possible about the opportunity you’re seeking with your PhD resume. This research will help you answer the interview questions and formulate your own. 

Practice at home.

Prepare for your interview by practicing commonly asked questions, like:

• Good Judgement & Logic in Problem–solving
• Experience with Suggesting Process Improvements
• You Needed to Cope With a Stressful Scenario
• Persuasion & Convincing Someone to See Your Way
• Following Company Policies With Which You Disagree

Research more interview questions and find an interview partner, someone whose opinion you can trust. Perform a mock interview and ask them to give you feedback on your answers and body language.

Be proactive and ask questions.

This is your chance to learn more about the opportunity you’re applying for while highlghting your qualifications and showcasing your knowledge. Prepare at least three questions relevant to the role. Remember, you are also figuring out if this opportunity is the right step for your career. 

These are a few examples of inspiration:

• What are the primary research questions or goals of this organization?
• What type of research projects would I be working on in this position? 
• Can you describe the research team and culture within the organization?
• How does this organization approach experimental design and data analysis?
• What opportunities are there for professional development and continuing education within this role?
• What are the primary challenges facing this organization, and how does this position contribute to addressing them?
• Can you describe this organization’s funding sources and strategies for research projects?
• What collaborations or partnerships does this organization have with other institutions or organizations?
• Can you describe the resources or tools available for researching this role?
• What are the timeline and expected outcomes for research projects in this position?

Tailor your questions to make them relevant to the industry. Remember to take notes during the interview and ask follow-up questions to better understand their values and culture.

Gather your references.

Peer reviews are an important part of any application. Seek out peers, mentors, advisors or faculty members who have direct knowledge of your qualifications. Ask them to be your reference and create a separate document with your name, title, contact information and your work relationship. Doing this ahead of time will take a weight off your shoulders.

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Ph.D. Program Admissions

Application information.

The application window for a Fall 2024 start is now closed. The application reopens in Fall 2024 with information for a 2025 start. 

Graduate programs within the Carnegie Mellon University School of Computer Science (SCS) utilize a common online application form. The SCS online application should be completed and submitted electronically as instructed by the deadline.

To apply for admission, read our application instructions carefully and make certain that you have met all requirements when you submit your online application.

Application Process

The HCII strives toward fairness and equity in its admissions process. To this end, we review all applications with a sensitive awareness to the applicant’s personal experiences, background, and potential to add to the rich and dynamic culture of the department. We recognize the value of individual circumstances and consider the unique educational contexts and life experiences of all students. In reviewing materials, we consider diverse forms of evidence that applicants are likely to be successful at research based on their preparatory experiences, as described in the applicant’s statement of purpose, CV, and letters of recommendation from research mentors. This evidence might come in the form of publications or research presentations to which the applicant contributed, portfolios of work, open-source contributions, installations, etc.

It is your responsibility to make certain that your application is complete by the stated deadlines. Unfortunately, given the tight deadlines of our process, we cannot accept late applications and do not consider applicants outside of the stated application period.

Application Requirements

Statement of purpose.

Prepare a Statement of Purpose providing a concise one- or two-page statement. While the format and content is ultimately up to you, consider including information relevant to the following:

• Your primary interests within HCI. Discuss your research interests, and any relevant experiences you have had that have informed and inspired those interests. Student interests tend to evolve as they are immersed in the environment of the HCII. The description provided here is not intended as a definitive statement of what you will do in your Ph.D., but is rather used to direct your application to most likely advisors and also to assess your ability to describe and motivate your research interests. You might consider including a discussion of the potential societal impact of the work (both positive and negative), as such considerations are core to how we think about our work and research at the HCII. You might find it useful to relate your work to existing research areas and projects in the HCI Institute, which are listed on the HCII research summary page. That said, the HCII is a large and dynamic place, and we know that they do not represent the entirity of work or interests of the many people in the department. Anyone with research interests related to HCI (broadly defined) are explicitly welcome.
• State your personal and/or professional objectives in pursuing a Ph.D., and why you are applying to Carnegie Mellon, and the HCII, specifically.
• Describe your background in fields related to your objective. List here any relevant industrial or commercial experience. Please note that we welcome students from diverse educational, cultural, and geographic backgrounds with a variety of strengths — strong technical skills, strong social science skills, strong design skills, and combinations of the above.
• The HCII values students who exhibit persistence and resilience in the face of challenge and adversity, demonstrate a commitment to ethics, and show concern for others and for their community. Describe how your background and your experiences attest to these personal attributes.  

CV / Resume

Attach your current CV (resume), including a summary of research experience and a list of publications, presentations, and conferences/meetings attended.

Publications

Attach copies of up to three (3) publications (preferably in English) that you may have. Please note that having prior publications is not a prerequisite for application.

If appropriate to your background, you may include a link to your portfolio or other online representation of your (e.g., GitHub profile page).

Transcripts

Submit transcripts from all undergraduate and graduate institutions attended, even if no degree was granted. You must upload your transcript in either PDF, JPG, or PNG format. Any other format will not be accepted.

Letters of Recommendation

Submit three letters of recommendation online. Recommenders should know you relatively well and be able to evaluate the quality of previous work. At least two should be from faculty or recent employers.  Recommenders should include information about how long and in what capacity they have known you, give specific and concrete examples of your work, and provide an assessment of relevant traits or accomplishments, such as your persistence and resilience in the face of a challenge, intellectual independence and originality, and commitment to ethics and social impact in your work. Letters are submitted electronically, using the online application. Letters are due at the time of the final deadline.

TOEFL, if required

Take the Test of English as a Foreign Language (TOEFL) and upload your scores directly to your online application. If you are not able to take the TOEFL exam, you may substitute the IELTS or Duolingo English proficiency test. It is a university requirement that all students whose native language is not English take one of these exams. This is true even if the student has an undergraduate or masters degree from an English-speaking college.

Application Fee

Application to the HCII Ph.D. program is usually accompanied by a non-refundable application fee. Many applicants will qualify for a waiver based on either membership in one of many predefined organizations or because of financial need. If you qualify, we invite you to please ask for an SCS Graduate Application Fee Waiver . (The application fee waiver is handled separately from admissions decisions.)

Tuition and Financial Aid

It is anticipated that students accepted into the HCII Ph.D. program will be awarded a graduate fellowship for the academic year covering full tuition and a living allowance. These fellowships renew for the duration of the program as long as the student maintains good standing. There is no separate financial aid form to be completed. Students are encouraged to apply for support from outside Carnegie Mellon (fellowships, foreign government grants, etc.). As an incentive to seek funding from other sources, a supplement is often provided to the stipend of any student who obtains outside support.

Final Checklist

Remember that all items must be uploaded directly to your online application. Have you included the following?

• Application Fee (or a waiver)
• Publications (up to 3)
• Portfolio (optional)
• Transcripts from all schools attended
• TOEFL scores, if required

About Carnegie Mellon

Carnegie Mellon University does not discriminate. Carnegie Mellon University is required not to discriminate in admission, employment, or administration of its programs or activities on the basis of race, color, national origin, sex or handicap in violation of Title VI of the Civil Rights Act of 1964, Title IX of the Educational Amendments of 1972 and Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973 or other federal, state, or local laws or executive orders.

In addition, Carnegie Mellon University does not discriminate in admission, employment, or administration of its programs on the basis of religion, creed, ancestry, belief, age, veteran status, sexual orientation or gender identity. Carnegie Mellon does not discriminate in violation of federal, state, or local laws or executive orders.

Inquiries concerning application of these statements should be directed to the Provost, Carnegie Mellon University, 5000 Forbes Avenue, Pittsburgh, PA 15213, telephone 412-268-6684 or the Vice President for Campus Affairs, Carnegie Mellon University, 5000 Forbes Avenue, Pittsburgh, PA 15213, telephone 412-268-2056. Carnegie Mellon University publishes an annual campus security report describing the university’s security, alcohol and drug, and sexual assault policies and containing statistics about the number and type of crimes committed on the campus during the preceding three years. You can obtain a copy by contacting the Carnegie Mellon Police Department at 412-268-2323. The security report is also available online.

Obtain general information about Carnegie Mellon University by calling 412-268-2000. For consumer information about Carnegie Mellon, visit the HUB.

Ph.D. Program

Current Students

Emphasis Areas

Frequently Asked Questions

Program Requirements

Resources for Current Students

Outgoing Students & Postdocs

Ph.D. in Human-Computer Interaction Carnegie Mellon University 5000 Forbes Avenue Pittsburgh, PA 15213-3891

Leah Buffington Ph.D. Program Coordinator Phone: 412-268-5037 Email us

Graduate Program Manager - 128714

Job description, #128714 graduate program manager.

UCSD Layoff from Career Appointment : Apply by 3/18/24 for consideration with preference for rehire. All layoff applicants should contact their Employment Advisor.

Special Selection Applicants : Apply by 3/21/24. Eligible Special Selection clients should contact their Disability Counselor for assistance.

• This position is open until filled. First Review Date: 3/21/24.

DESCRIPTION

Chemistry and Biochemistry is one of the largest and most complex departments on campus. The department’s organization is divided among three major academic sections each with its own leadership representation under the Department Chair: Physical, Analytical & Environmental (PAE); Biochemistry & Biophysics (BB); and finally Synthesis, Materials and Chemical Biology (SMCB). The department is comprised of 75 ladder rank faculty, and additional 10 in various instructional titles and ~150 in academic research titles and postdoctoral scholars. The above academic community presents a plethora of diverse complex issues from Health Sciences Compensation Program agreements to adjuncts from national laboratories sharing negotiated employee patent agreements. The department is also comprised of 90 career staff; ~60 temporary or student staff, and 350 Master’s and Ph.D. students. Undergraduate students majoring in chemistry number greater than 1,700, and total undergraduate and graduate annual course enrollments exceed 23,000. The department currently has more than 120 awards from federal, state and private sources for approximately $20 million per annum in extramural funding and $46 million in total annual expenditures.

The Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry manages eight recharge facilities supporting national as well as UCSD-wide research endeavors in academe and industry: Nuclear Magnetic Resonance, Molecular Mass Spectrometry, Biomolecular and Proteomics Mass Spectroscopy, Inorganic Characterization Instrumentation, Protein Crystallography, Small Molecule X-Ray Crystallography, Fabrication Facility plus the on campus Chemistry Storehouse. In addition, we are home to two national research center grants. The department also manages three major NIH training grants, and one Department of Education training grant, which fund graduate and postdoctoral students across UCSD departments/disciplines as well as off campus research organizations.

The Graduate Program Manager collaborates, consults and reports to the Student Affairs Director to help manage operations and personnel for the Chemistry and Biochemistry Graduate Program, one of the largest on campus with 300 students in the UCSD Doctoral Program, 90+ students in the Master’s Program, and 40+ students in the UCSD-SDSU Joint Doctoral Program. The position is responsible for overseeing academic and career advising; graduate admissions, outreach, and recruitment; graduate funding and the teaching apprentice program; curriculum planning; policy and process development and implementation, and long-range planning for the graduate program. Direct supervisor for Graduate Affairs staff, including overseeing day-to-day duties, hiring, training, evaluating, and directing special projects as needed. The incumbent assumes full responsibility for the management of the Student Affairs Unit in the absence of the Student Affairs Director, and may represent the unit at divisional and campus levels. The position also manages the programmatic and reporting aspects of our multiple department training grants (through NIH and Department of Education). Additionally, the position also coordinates our industrial relations, developing connections with local industry to plan sponsored events, career-related activities, and internships for our students. This position serves in an advisory role on all matters pertaining to the graduate program to the Student Affairs Director, Vice Chair for Graduate Education, and the department Graduate Affairs Committee (GAC).

Occasional evenings and weekends may be required. Overtime may be required.

This position offers a hybrid work arrangement, which includes a combination of onsite and remote work.

QUALIFICATIONS

Working knowledge of academic advising and counseling techniques. Ability to effectively advise and work closely with graduate students.

Demonstrated experience in a supervisory role including responsibility for hiring, delegating, directing work, training, evaluating performance, and assessing staff capabilities and workloads and redistributing when necessary.

Demonstrated knowledge of policies and procedures related to student academic affairs, graduate admissions, graduate support, employment, and all other programmatic considerations. Knowledge of Graduate Division's role in serving students. Knowledge and awareness of academic institutions as they relate to the mission of teaching and research.

Experience supervising Academic Student Employment procedures and policies including fee remission policies, international student employment regulations. Knowledge of graduate student employment duties, union contract guidelines, PPS procedures, payroll issues and deadlines, and regulations for graduate student employees. Experience supervising Instructional Assistant (IA) assignment policies and implementation of IA assignments. Experience addressing and resolving IA assignment issues, employment issues, or performance issues.

Knowledge of University-specific computer application programs and knowledge of University and departmental principles and procedures involved in risk assessment and evaluating risks as to likelihood and consequences. Knowledge of systems; grading, transcript and diploma production; student academic records management; document management systems; verification of enrollment; graduation and commencement; student fees, fee assessment and refunds; information/communication services and publications; and curriculum, course scheduling and classroom management. Sophisticated knowledge of student information systems.

Skills in judgment and decision-making, problem solving, identifying measures of system performance and the actions to improve performance.

Ability in problem identification and reasoning. Experience to evaluate complex concepts or knowledge of past discrepancies, trends, and relationships, and apply the concepts appropriately.

Ability to develop original ideas to solve problems. Demonstrated ability to organize and analyze a variety of information (including enrollment history, grades, trends, projections and IA/faculty staffing) , express ideas clearly and convincingly, to make strategic recommendations.

Interpersonal skills. Including tact, diplomacy, humor, and flexibility to communicate with faculty, students and staff; excellent interpersonal, oral and written communication skills, and skill to articulate complex program requirements to a variety of individuals with broad educational, cultural, and language backgrounds.

Multicultural competencies; ability to work with diverse populations. Superior communication skills to effectively and professionally communicate one-on-one or in group settings, taking into account differences in social, cultural, professional, and educational backgrounds.

Skill in project management to initiate, plan, execute, and complete the work of a team to achieve specific goals and meet specific success criteria. Ability to plan, budget, oversee, and carry out events.

Ability to work effectively in a strong service environment under pressure and constant change in priorities. Ability to develop a vision or image of how a system/process should operate under ideal and less than ideal circumstances to aid in developing different approaches of the Department’s mission for students.

Demonstrated understanding of the importance of ensuring an equitable, inclusive, and diverse working environment, with the ability to work as a part of a diverse and collaborative team. Demonstrated competency and commitment to equity, diversity and inclusion.

Computing experience in Windows computing environment using Microsoft Office Applications, web browsers, and other database management systems. Must have the ability and willingness to increase and update knowledge and skills as needed to meet the needs of the department.

SPECIAL CONDITIONS

• Background Check required.

Pay Transparency Act

Annual Full Pay Range: $56,700 - $97,500 (will be prorated if the appointment percentage is less than 100%)

Hourly Equivalent: $27.16 - $46.70

Factors in determining the appropriate compensation for a role include experience, skills, knowledge, abilities, education, licensure and certifications, and other business and organizational needs. The Hiring Pay Scale referenced in the job posting is the budgeted salary or hourly range that the University reasonably expects to pay for this position. The Annual Full Pay Range may be broader than what the University anticipates to pay for this position, based on internal equity, budget, and collective bargaining agreements (when applicable).

If employed by the University of California, you will be required to comply with our Policy on Vaccination Programs, which may be amended or revised from time to time. Federal, state, or local public health directives may impose additional requirements.

To foster the best possible working and learning environment, UC San Diego strives to cultivate a rich and diverse environment, inclusive and supportive of all students, faculty, staff and visitors. For more information, please visit UC San Diego Principles of Community .

The University of California is an Equal Opportunity/Affirmative Action Employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, disability, age, protected veteran status, gender identity or sexual orientation. For the complete University of California nondiscrimination and affirmative action policy see: http://www-hr.ucsd.edu/saa/nondiscr.html

UC San Diego is a smoke and tobacco free environment. Please visit smokefree.ucsd.edu for more information.

Application Instructions

Please click on the link below to apply for this position. A new window will open and direct you to apply at our corporate careers page. We look forward to hearing from you!

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Posted : 4/15/2024

Job Reference # : 128714

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