An English degree does not prepare students for a specific job, in the way
that some majors do, rather there are a variety of career choices open to an
English major. Many jobs are more focused on students having their (college
diploma) than on what their major was. There are also many jobs that look for
good communication and critical thinking skills: A (diploma) for an English
major will fulfill these requirements.
One common job for people with English degrees is that of a writer. There are
many different types of writing that can be done on the job. One can work in the
public relations department and write press releases or be a technical writer
and write things such as user manuals. Graduates have the option to be a
freelance writer and write for magazines or newspapers. If students are
interested in this career path, they may want to take as many classes as
possible on writing. Be sure to take at least one class in technical writing. If
interested in becoming an author or novelist, take classes in creative writing.
Another option is to become an English teacher. This affords the opportunity
to continue their focus on English in the same way it was studied in college. It
is a great way to help others earn their (high school diplomas), and to learn to
enjoy reading and writing. This career takes a great deal of commitment and time
to do successfully. If students are interested in this career path they will be
required to take classes focusing on teaching English.
Another job option available to English majors is to work in publishing. A
degree in English can prepare students for a job as an editor at a publishing
house. One may start out as an editor’s assistant, but there are plenty of
opportunities to move up within the company. Graduates can also become a
literary agent. This job helps to connect writers to editors and can help build
the relationships between their clients. An agent has many of the same basic
requirements as an editor. Most agents and editors love to read, and can spot
and give suggestions on how to fix poor information in manuscripts. To become an
agent or an editor, take classes focusing on specific genres to better
understand them.
Many people use an English degree as a jumping off point for further
education. In order to earn an advanced degree such as a PhD or a Master’s
degree, students must first earn a bachelor’s degree. People who attend medical
school or law school often get degrees in English. Additionally, if one wants to
become an English professor, you will need an English doctorate degree. Although
this is an option, students have several career choices to choose from. An
English degree demonstrates the ability to balance time, work hard and think
critically. These are all skills that employers are looking for when hiring.