What Can You Do with an English Degree? Job Prospects + Tips

What can you do with an English degree? Many people ask this question because they assume it only leads to teaching or writing careers. In reality, though, an English degree opens the door to tons of career paths, from media and marketing gigs to niche areas like medical writing or legal consulting.

Why? Because at its core, an English degree sharpens your communication skills—the number one most in-demand skill for 2024 across nearly every industry. Jobs like UX writer, brand strategist, and corporate communications manager are also on the rise, with some of them offering pretty competitive salaries.

In this blog, we’ll break down what studying English actually looks like, the kinds of career paths you can explore, and the highest-paying roles you can aim for. So, if you’re wondering what you can do with an English degree, keep reading to find out just how versatile this path really is.

• What Is an English Major?
• English Major Careers
• Top 10 Highest Paying Jobs for English Majors
• Top 5 Best Colleges for English Majors
• Frequently Asked Questions
• Takeaways

What Is an English Major?

An English major or degree is the study of literature, language, and writing. While it might seem like it’s just reading classic novels, it’s actually a lot broader than that. You’ll analyze everything from Shakespeare’s sonnets to online content.

The great thing about an English major is its flexibility. Programs often include courses in technical writing, public relations, linguistics, and even media studies. You could be in a technical writing class, learning how to draft user manuals that don’t make you want to pull your hair out, or taking a creative writing course, focusing on crafting short stories or poetry.

You also have the freedom to pick electives that align with your career goals. Interested in publishing? Go for that editing and publishing class. Thinking about becoming a novelist? Explore creative writing. The goal here is to build strong communication, analytical, and research skills that can translate to many different career paths.

English Major Careers

Choosing to major in English unlocks a surprising variety of career paths. The key to this versatility is the set of core skills you pick up along the way: writing, critical thinking, and persuasive communication. These are skills that every industry values—because who doesn’t need someone who can write clearly, think sharply, and tell a compelling story?

Traditional career paths for English degree holders

When people think of English majors, they often imagine careers in education, publishing, or journalism. If you love diving into narratives, analyzing information, and communicating ideas, these paths might resonate with you:

1. Education

Despite the stereotype, not every English major ends up teaching. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, only about 21% of English grads work in education. For those who do, roles like teaching, working as a librarian, or serving as an academic administrator can be fulfilling options that put their passion for language and literature to good use.

2. Publishing

Publishing is another classic route. Whether as editors, literary agents, or proofreaders, English majors find their footing here thanks to their knack for spotting narrative structure and paying close attention to detail. And while the traditional print publishing industry isn’t growing as fast, there’s still plenty of demand for those skills in digital media.

3. Journalism

Then there’s journalism. English majors often gravitate toward this field, taking on roles as reporters, content writers, or freelance journalists. The ability to research, write, and communicate clearly is key in a world where digital journalism and investigative reporting are growing stronger.

Alternative career paths for English degree holders

But let’s be real—English majors aren’t tied to traditional roles anymore. The skills you pick up in an English program can take you down unexpected roads in industries like tech, marketing, law, and beyond:

1. Marketing

In marketing, English grads often land roles as copywriters or content strategists, where they get to craft brand stories and connect with audiences. The rise of digital marketing has made these skills even more valuable, as companies need writers who can tell stories that stick.

2. Tech industry

You wouldn’t think of tech right away, but English majors are thriving here, too. Many work as UX writers, creating user-friendly content for apps and websites. It’s a job that mixes good communication with a keen understanding of design. Technical writing is another option, where you simplify complex information—a skill in high demand with the constant growth of tech and engineering.

3. Law and consulting

If you’re thinking about law or consulting, an English degree lays a solid foundation. The critical thinking and argumentation skills you develop in those literature and rhetoric classes prepare you for law school or roles like a paralegal. You’ll be leveraging those research and writing skills to build cases and present ideas clearly.

4. Public relations

In PR, storytelling skills come in handy for shaping a company’s image and communicating with the public. Whether you’re writing press releases or managing a brand’s social media presence, an English major’s communication skills are an asset.

Top 10 Highest Paying Jobs for English Majors

If you’re wondering what you can do with an English degree and still land a high-paying job, the good news is you’ve got a lot of options. Your knack for communication, critical analysis, and persuasive thinking can open doors in a range of industries—from traditional roles to emerging fields.

Here’s a rundown of the top 10 highest-paying jobs for English majors, according to data from Indeed:

1. Attorney – $97,777 per year

Law is one of the top-paying fields for English majors. Attorneys work on everything from drawing up contracts to arguing cases in court. And with all the legalese and complex reasoning involved, your skills in dissecting texts, building logical arguments, and communicating clearly (both on paper and in person) are exactly what the job calls for.

Many successful lawyers start with a background in English before moving on to law school to earn their Juris Doctor (JD) degree.

2. Development director – $85,479 per year

Development directors focus on fundraising efforts for nonprofits, schools, and healthcare facilities. They’re the ones who brainstorm strategies to get donations rolling in and keep donors engaged. For this job, you need strong writing chops to create effective grant proposals and fundraising campaigns. And since you’ll be working with various teams and stakeholders, your ability to communicate ideas clearly and thoughtfully is a big plus.

3. Adjunct professor – $81,622 per year

If you love discussions about literature or communications, teaching at the college level might be your thing. Adjunct professors work part-time, often focusing on specific courses in their field of interest.

In addition to teaching, you might be developing course content or doing research. Your English major background gives you a solid base for sparking insightful conversations and helping students refine their critical thinking skills.

4. Sales manager – $81,041 per year

Leading a sales team and developing strategies to drive revenue—that’s what a sales manager does. English majors thrive here thanks to their persuasive communication skills and ability to craft compelling messages. Plus, analyzing market trends and presenting sales reports requires sharp thinking and the ability to convey ideas effectively.

5. Marketing manager – $70,297 per year

Marketing managers focus on planning and executing strategies to promote products or services. They conduct market research, manage brands, and develop campaigns that connect with target audiences.

English majors excel in marketing because they know how to tell a great story, understand audience psychology, and analyze what makes messages work. Whether you’re creating ads or planning long-term campaigns, your skills in crafting narratives and understanding persuasion can set you apart.

6. Technical writer – $74,296 per year

As a technical writer, your job is to turn complex info into simple, digestible guides that users can easily follow. Software documentation, instruction manuals, or online help content—you’re the go-to person for making technical stuff sound less intimidating. English majors tend to excel in this field because they have a solid command of language and can break down jargon with ease.

7. Public relations account manager – $62,530 per year

PR account managers focus on shaping and managing the image of clients, whether they’re brands, companies, or public figures. The job involves writing press releases, planning PR campaigns, and maintaining relationships with media outlets. English majors, with their knack for storytelling and persuasive writing, fit right in here. The role demands you stay on message and create a positive brand image across all platforms.

8. Copywriter – $58,458 per year

Copywriters are the creative brains behind catchy slogans, product descriptions, and ad content. Your goal here is to hook the audience’s attention and communicate the brand’s message effectively. This job involves writing for various media, from websites to social media and print ads.

If you’re an English major, your storytelling skills and understanding of what makes audiences tick will come in handy. Plus, working closely with marketing teams helps align your copy with a brand’s voice and goals.

9. Grant writer – $57,266 per year

Grant writers are essential for organizations like nonprofits and schools that rely on external funding. Your role involves researching donors, crafting persuasive proposals, and handling the application process.

The strong research and writing skills you picked up in your English major are crucial here, especially when it comes to making a compelling case for funding. Attention to detail and a good narrative can really set you apart in this field.

10. Librarian – $61,660 per year

Librarians are information experts. They manage collections, help people find the resources they need, and often organize community programs. An English degree lays a great foundation for this career by building strong research, organization, and communication skills. While most librarian roles require a master’s degree in library science, your English major can get you off to a good start.

Top 5 Best Colleges for English Majors

If you’re thinking about pursuing an English degree, picking the right college can make all the difference. Some schools have standout programs, offering access to top-notch professors, incredible resources, and unique learning opportunities. Here are five colleges that are worth a closer look if you’re set on studying English:

1. University of California, Berkeley

Acceptance rate: 11%

The English department at UC Berkeley offers a diverse curriculum that spans different literary periods, genres, and critical theories. From medieval literature to postmodern analysis, you’ll find courses that explore a wide range of topics.

The faculty are known for their work in cultural studies and critical theory, making it a great place if you’re into exploring literature through different lenses. Plus, with the Bay Area’s vibrant literary scene, there are plenty of opportunities to get hands-on experience and build connections.

2. Yale University

Acceptance rate: 3.7%

Yale’s English program is famous for its strong historical focus and commitment to original research. Students have the chance to dive into various literary topics and explore interdisciplinary options.

This program at Yale University shines in Renaissance and Modernist literature, and with ties to cultural institutions like The Yale Review, there’s also a built-in pathway to gain some real-world publishing experience.

3. Harvard University

Acceptance rate: 3.6%

Harvard’s English department is legendary and consistently ranks at the top. You can find a huge selection of courses, from Renaissance and Victorian literature to modern and contemporary studies.

What’s great is you can dig into specialized areas like American literature or go the comparative literature route. With its sprawling library system and world-class faculty, Harvard University is ideal if you’re looking to get really deep into literary studies.

4. Stanford University

Acceptance rate: 3.9%

Stanford’s English department is all about combining traditional studies with modern digital and interdisciplinary approaches. Do you want to explore literature’s cultural and historical context? Or dive into creative writing? Stanford University has these options.

Being in Silicon Valley means you’ll also have unique opportunities to bridge literature with tech, opening doors to internships in digital storytelling, UX writing, and more.

5. Brown University

Acceptance rate: 5.2%

Brown’s English department stands out for its flexible and creative approach. Thanks to its Open Curriculum, you can mix literary studies with disciplines like film or philosophy.

Brown University is a haven for aspiring writers, with accomplished authors and critics on its faculty. The lively arts community also provides endless chances for collaboration and mentorship.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. What does an English major do?

As an English major, you’ll dive into the study of literature, language, and writing through different lenses. On top of that, you’ll develop skills in critical thinking, research, and persuasive communication. Depending on your interests, you can also specialize in areas like creative writing, rhetoric, linguistics, or digital humanities.

2. What is the average salary of an English degree holder?

The average annual wage for English degree holders is around $44,000. But that’s just a starting point. High-paying roles like attorneys or UX writers can bring in much more, while entry-level positions might start on the lower end.

3. Is an English degree only useful for teaching and writing careers?

While teaching and writing are common routes, an English degree is actually pretty versatile. Graduates end up in all kinds of fields, from marketing and public relations to law and tech. You’ll find English majors working as UX writers, PR managers, technical writers, editors, and even in roles like development directors.

4. What are some high-paying careers for English majors?

English majors can land high-paying roles in a bunch of different industries. Careers like attorneys, development directors, marketing managers, technical writers, and PR account managers are just a few examples. For instance, attorneys earn an average of around $97,777 per year, while technical writers bring in roughly $74,296 annually.

5. Which colleges offer the best programs for English majors?

Some top-notch schools for English majors include Harvard, Yale, Stanford, UC Berkeley, and Brown. These colleges are known for having respected faculty, strong course offerings, and lots of opportunities for interdisciplinary studies and networking.

Takeaways

If you’re still wondering what you can do with an English degree, here’s what you need to know:

• An English degree is way more versatile than it gets credit for. This degree gives you sharp skills in critical thinking, persuasive communication, and analysis—skills that fit nicely into all kinds of careers beyond the obvious paths.
• With an English degree, you’ve got the flexibility to pursue traditional routes like education, publishing, and journalism, or explore roles in marketing, tech, law, public relations, and beyond.
• Jobs like attorneys, development directors, and technical writers show that English grads can cash in on their knack for persuasive writing and clear thinking in some well-paying roles across industries.
• Some of the best colleges for English majors include Harvard, Yale, Stanford, UC Berkeley, and Brown.
• If you’re seriously eyeing an English degree, it’s not a bad idea to connect with a college admissions consultant. They can help you zero in on the right programs, navigate applications, and match your goals with the best opportunities out there for English majors.