CVs versus Resumes: What’s the Difference?

What is a CV?

A curriculum vitae (CV) is an in-depth document that details the entire course of your career. In the medical industry, a CV can be preferred due to its comprehensive nature, especially in roles where you are likely to be involved in any kind of research or academic capacity. A CV includes a detailed list of your academic background, teaching and research experience, publications, presentations, awards, honors, affiliations, and other professional activities. A CV is typically used when applying for academic, educational, scientific, or research positions.

What is a Resume?

A resume can be similar to a CV but is a more concise summary of your skills, experiences, and education. Unlike a CV, resumes are typically limited to one or two pages. It’s tailored to the specific job you’re applying for, highlighting relevant experiences and achievements. In healthcare, a resume is often used for non-academic positions where specific skills and experiences are more critical than an extensive academic background.

Here are some key differences between the two documents:

  • Length –  A CV can be several pages, while a resume is typically one to two pages. Resumes should generally be as concise as possible, while a CV is generally better the longer it is.
  • Purpose – A CV is comprehensive and used to display academic and research expertise, whereas a resume is succinct and job-specific. Resumes are intended to be a summary of your professional career, while CVs are designed to provide a comprehensive overview of all your professional achievements.
  • Content – A CV includes all academic and professional achievements you are able to include, a list of all your publications, patents, and other similar accomplishments, and your professional experiences. A resume focuses on your professional highlights, relevant skills, and experiences.
  • Customization – A CV remains largely static, slowly growing in length. A resume, on the other hand, should be customizable for different job applications.