Application Tracking Systems + Unconventional Qualification: What to Do?

December 10, 2024 8:28 AM

I'm trying to optimize my resume for Application Tracking Systems. I have a bachelor's degree, and also a postgraduate diploma (1 year course) from a UK university, which is my highest level of education. Most US online application portals only have Masters and Doctorate options for postgrad education, so I never know what to put for my highest level of education, and I'm worried that they're also the only options in ATS systems, and so my education may not get read correctly/ at all. What's the best way to approach this?
posted by my log does not judge to Work & Money (2 answers total)

Under the UK system, a postgraduate diploma is 120 credits at Level 7. A Masters is 180 credits at level 7.

Your qualification is therefore on the same level as a Masters, though not the same amount of credits.

So I would put that if that's your only option, qualifying it in your statement.
posted by einekleine at 8:55 AM on December 10, 2024 [2 favorites]

I agree - plus, there are some programs in the US that add on a fifth year and give the student a M.A. - the number of credits for any given M.A. will vary somewhat in the US by program.
posted by coffeecat at 10:21 AM on December 10, 2024