Q. As a graduate of the College at the University of Chicago, I received an A.B. degree in anthropology. I have traditionally listed my degree as “A.B. Anthropology, University of Chicago.” However, in preparing my résumé for inclusion in proposals, my employer wants to list it as “B.A. Anthropology, University of Chicago.” What is the correct format, or is there no difference?
A. I don’t think I’d argue with an employer over this, especially since the University of Chicago’s anthropology department website itself refers to the BA degree (no periods, which happens to be Chicago style now also). If an institution were known for a distinctive styling of a degree, it might be a good idea always to follow that style, lest a reader familiar with the convention think the résumé was faked. Otherwise, it probably isn’t important.