Your degree grade, or classification, is a crucial component of your academic profile and should always be presented clearly and consistently. For the most distinguished achievements, specifically First-Class and Upper Second-Class Honours, there are established and widely accepted ways to write them.
Understanding Your Honours Degree
In the UK, undergraduate degrees are typically awarded with honours, with classifications based on academic performance. The top classifications are First-Class Honours (1st) and Upper Second-Class Honours (2:1). When presenting your grade, clarity and precision are paramount.
How to Write Your Honours Degree Grade
When stating your degree classification, especially on professional documents like a CV or application, focus on established conventions:
-
First-Class Honours: This is most commonly written out as "First-Class Honours" or concisely as "1st".
- Example: BSc (Hons) Computer Science, First-Class Honours (1st)
-
Upper Second-Class Honours: For this classification, "2:1" is the most widely recognized and common notation. However, "2.1" is also equally appropriate and frequently used in academic and professional contexts.
- Example: BA (Hons) English Literature, Upper Second-Class Honours (2:1)
- Example: BA (Hons) English Literature, Upper Second-Class Honours (2.1)
The Importance of 'Honours' (Hons)
If you have been awarded an honours degree, it is important to include the 'Hons' designation. This typically follows your degree type or name, signifying a higher academic standard than an ordinary (pass) degree.
- Correct Usage: "BSc (Hons) in Biomedical Science"
- Incorrect Usage (if awarded Hons): "BSc in Biomedical Science"
Where to Include Your Degree Grade
The context can slightly influence how and where you present your degree grade.
-
Curriculum Vitae (CV):
- List your degree grade under an "Education" section.
- Place it directly after your degree title and university name for quick readability.
- Standard Format:
[Degree Type] (Hons), [Subject], [University Name], [Year of Graduation], [Classification] - Example:
BSc (Hons) Economics, University of Bristol, 2023, First-Class Honours (1st) - Example:
MA (Hons) History, University of Glasgow, 2022, Upper Second-Class Honours (2:1) - For more detailed guidance on CV structure, refer to resources like the Prospects.ac.uk guide on writing a graduate CV.
-
Job Applications and Forms:
- Always adhere to the specific instructions provided on the application form. Many forms will have dedicated fields for your degree classification.
- If an open text box is provided, use the clear and concise format recommended for your CV.
-
Academic Transcripts:
- Your official academic transcript will list your degree grade precisely as awarded by your university, so you typically do not need to format it yourself for this purpose.
-
Personal Statements and Cover Letters:
- Integrate your degree classification naturally into your narrative. This is an opportunity to elaborate on your academic achievements and how they relate to the role or course you are applying for.
- Example: "My First-Class Honours in Psychology provided me with a robust analytical framework crucial for this research position..."
- Example: "Graduating with an Upper Second-Class Honours (2.1) in Business Management equipped me with critical problem-solving skills..."
Summary of Common Notations
Here's a quick reference for writing the most recognized honours degree classifications:
| Degree Classification | Common Notation |
|---|---|
| First-Class Honours | 1st |
| Upper Second-Class Honours | 2:1 or 2.1 (both are appropriate) |
