When to use this letter
- You're moving to a different field or type of work.
- You're leaving to go back to school or retrain.
- You want your employer to understand it isn't about them.
Career change
Says why in one line, without overexplaining.
Version 1 of 3
[Your Name]
[Email] · [Phone]
[Month Day, Year]
[Manager's Name][Manager's Title], [Company Name]
Dear [Manager's Name],
Please accept this letter as notice of my resignation from my position as [Job Title] at [Company Name]. I've decided to pursue a career in [new field], and my last day will be [Month Day, Year].
This decision is about the direction I want my career to take, not about my time here. I'm grateful for the experience and the skills I've built at [Company Name], and for your support.
I'll make sure my work is documented and handed off before I go. Please let me know what would help most.
Sincerely,
[Your Name]
Going back to school
For a degree, certificate or training program.
Version 2 of 3
[Your Name]
[Email] · [Phone]
[Month Day, Year]
[Manager's Name][Manager's Title], [Company Name]
Dear [Manager's Name],
I'm writing to let you know that I'm resigning from my position as [Job Title] to return to school for [program or field]. My last day will be [Month Day, Year].
Thank you for the opportunities and encouragement I've had here. The experience will stay with me in whatever comes next.
Between now and my last day, I'll [handover task] and help train whoever takes over my responsibilities.
Sincerely,
[Your Name]
Short career change email
When you've already explained in person.
Version 3 of 3
Subject: Resignation — [Your Name]
Dear [Manager's Name],
As we discussed, I'm resigning from my role as [Job Title] to pursue a new direction in my career. My last day will be [Month Day, Year].
Thank you for everything. I'll make sure my work is in good shape before I leave.
Best regards,
[Your Name]
Tips
- One sentence on the change is enough. Your manager doesn't need your whole plan.
- Make it clear it isn't personal if that's true. It helps keep the relationship.
- Ask for a reference or LinkedIn recommendation while your work is fresh in your manager's mind.
- Ask about part-time or project work if you'd like income while you retrain — some employers are open to it.
Notice and the law
In most US jobs two weeks' notice is a custom rather than a legal requirement, but a contract, union agreement, company policy or state law can set different rules — for notice, for final pay and for unused vacation. The resignation letter guide explains US notice norms, with sources.
Not legal advice. This page is general information for US employees, not legal advice. Notice rules can come from your contract, a union agreement, company policy or state law — if you're unsure, check those or ask an employment attorney.