academic title

100gSoma

Does anyone use letter after their name? I saw someone with a business card recently who had (BA) after their name.

I don't think I would use lettering unless I had a Ph.D...

Maybe on a CV I would use academic lettering.

?

Lump

No... I think anyone who uses it who hasn't got a Ph.D is a moron.

r3nu4l

Well in my industry (Medical Communications) it's a must. I have a PhD in Molecular Medical Biology.

In my office there is a BSc, MD and PhD in my department. When we introduce ourselves to clients it is important for them to know what level of training we have so they can tailor their discussions with us to the appropriate level.

Example, two weeks ago I was talking to two MDs who are heads of R&D for a major global pharma company. I asked them to send me some information for me to complete the project...

They knew I was a Dr but didn't know if I was MD or PhD. Their first question was "What's your background?" When I explained I was a PhD they were happy to send me the info but stated that had I been an MD they would have refused as it would be too complex for a regular MD to understand fully.

In short, it depends on the industry you work in as to whether titles are necessary at all.

DublinWriter

r3nu4l wrote:

In short, it depends on the industry you work in as to whether titles are necessary at all.

Usually within any professional occupation you'd typically put your letters after your name on your business card. That's the only place I've ever seen them used.

...unless you're as sad as Bill Cosby who puts down his cert in physical education after his name on the titles of TV show.

100gSoma

thanks guys. Thats pretty much what I was thinking.
It seems a bit pretentious to have BA or BSc after your name in most cases. Fair enough though if you reach PhD level and its a genuine factor in highlighting your specialism in some subject.

Thanks

DublinWriter

100gSoma wrote:

thanks guys. Thats pretty much what I was thinking.
It seems a bit pretentious to have BA or BSc after your name in most cases.

Indeedy, especially on letters to your girlfriend, mum, the taxman, etc.

But it's expected on programmes for academic conferences, etc.

I'm probably opening a can of worms by stating it's even worse when people put vendor-specific I.T. qualifications after their name, e.g. MSCP, etc.

Yours Sincerely,

DublinWriter, BSc MA CNE.