Here are eight industries to consider when exploring career possibilites with an English degree
It’s a common refrain heard by English majors everywhere: “What are you going to do with an English degree?” Contrary to popular belief, when you graduate with an English degree, you can enjoy a wide range of career opportunities. From writing and journalism to marketing and copywriting, the skills gained through an English program are highly applicable in many fields and transferable to nearly every industry. English graduates excel in roles that require strong communication, critical thinking, organization and analysis.
Belmont University’s English program provides you with the essential skills to pursue careers in publishing, public relations, education, technical writing, content creation and even law or business. The ability to articulate ideas clearly and persuasively is a valuable asset in any profession, making our English graduates well-equipped for success in today's diverse job market. Let’s explore the many career routes an English major graduate might pursue (some of which you might not have thought about).
Exploring Career Opportunities With an English Degree
An English degree opens doors to diverse and fulfilling career paths. Whether your concentration is on literature or creative writing, you’ll be able to use your technical knowledge and soft skills for the following types of jobs or English major internships.
Writing and Publishing
The writing and publishing industry offers a diverse range of career opportunities for English graduates. You can engage in creative writing, technical writing, ghostwriting and editing, using your acquired skills to produce compelling content. In the publishing industry, you can take on roles such as editors, literary agents and publishers, where you play a crucial part in bringing manuscripts to market. These positions not only utilize your expertise in language and literature but also your ability to navigate the complexities of the publishing process.
Education and Academia
Education and academia present several career paths for English graduates. You can pursue teaching at various educational levels, as either a professor or teacher, sharing a knowledge and passion for literature with students. Additionally, opportunities in academic research and administration allow you to contribute to scholarly work and support the functioning of educational institutions.
Media and Journalism
The media and journalism industries offer exciting career opportunities for English graduates. You can work in print, digital and broadcast journalism, delivering news and stories to diverse audiences. English graduates will acquire the skills needed to craft engaging material for various platforms when working in media jobs that require content creation. These roles can also benefit from English graduates’ strong writing skills and ability to convey information clearly and effectively.
Public Relations and Communications
The communication and literacy skills that are taught in a quality English program allow you to excel in careers in public relations and communications. Graduates gain the skills to work in corporate communications, public relations and media relations, helping organizations manage their public image and convey key messages. These roles involve writing press releases, managing media inquiries and developing strategic communication plans. Graduates in this field use their strong writing and interpersonal skills to effectively engage with various stakeholders and promote their organization's interests.
Marketing and Advertising
English major careers in marketing and advertising can land roles in copywriting, content strategy and brand management. These positions require creativity and a keen understanding of audience engagement, both of which are developed through an English degree. Graduates can craft compelling copy, devise strategic content plans and manage brand identities across various platforms.
Law and Policy
English graduates can find a wide range of opportunities in law and policy, including legal professions, policy analysis, legislative assistance and advocacy. These careers for English majors involve critical thinking, analytical skills and persuasive communication, all of which are taught in a top-ranked English program. Use your expertise in reading and writing to interpret legal texts, write policy documents and advocate for various causes. The ability to articulate complex ideas clearly and effectively makes English graduates valuable assets in the fields of law and policy.
Nonprofit and Advocacy
Nonprofit and advocacy careers offer fulfilling opportunities for English graduates, including nonprofit management, grant writing and program coordination. These roles require strong communication and organizational skills, which are developed through an English degree. You can leverage your writing expertise to craft compelling grant proposals, manage outreach campaigns and coordinate programs that support various causes. The ability to convey ideas clearly and persuasively makes English graduates valuable contributors to the nonprofit and advocacy sectors.
Corporate and Business
Corporate and business roles offer a wide range of opportunities for English graduates, including careers in human resources, management and consulting. These positions benefit from the strong communication, critical thinking and analytical skills honed through an English degree. You can effectively manage teams, develop strategic plans and provide insightful consulting services. Your ability to articulate ideas clearly and persuasively makes them valuable assets in the corporate and business world.
Other Career Opportunities for English Majors You Might Not Have Thought About
English graduates have a nearly endless number of options that may not immediately come to mind when it comes to career opportunities. For instance, you can excel as UX (user experience) writers, crafting intuitive and user-friendly digital interfaces for tech companies. Your skills can also serve in a career as a speechwriter for politicians or executives, shaping influential public addresses.
Additionally, English major jobs can include careers as cultural consultants, helping businesses navigate cross-cultural communication and international markets. You can also thrive in roles such as archivists or curators in museums and libraries, preserving and presenting historical documents and artifacts. These unique paths are further evidence of the versatility of an English degree from Belmont University and the wide variety of high-paying jobs for English majors that value strong communication and analytical skills.
Read here for more information about what to consider when comparing English programs for different universities.
Learn More About How You Can Excel as an English Major at Belmont University
Belmont University’s English program provides a solid foundation for a variety of career paths. The comprehensive curriculum, combined with experiential learning opportunities, prepares students to excel in their chosen fields. Whether they choose to pursue writing, education, media, law or business, Belmont English graduates are equipped to succeed and make meaningful contributions to their professions.
Reach out to us today for more information about applying to the Belmont English program and our courses and opportunities that align with your career aspirations. Our academic advisors are here to help you chart your educational journey and prepare for a successful future, no matter what your major is.
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Learn more about Belmont University's English program.