What Can You Do with an English Degree to Earn Well After Graduation

The value of an English degree may not always be immediately apparent. However, this field's versatility and depth of study offer many opportunities beyond the traditional confines of literature and writing. From honing critical thinking and communication skills to cultivating empathy and cultural understanding, an English degree equips graduates with a diverse skill set applicable across numerous industries. 

In this article, we dive into the many career paths available to English major holders, showcasing how their analytical prowess, creativity, and nuanced understanding of language and literature can translate into success across various professional domains.

Knowledge That You Can Get as an English Degree Holder

As an English degree holder, you acquire diverse knowledge and skills that are highly valued in today's job market. Firstly, you develop advanced proficiency in written and oral communication, honing the ability to articulate ideas clearly and persuasively. 

Additionally, you gain critical thinking and analytical skills through studying literature, allowing you to interpret complex texts, analyze arguments, and synthesize information effectively. Moreover, your studies in English literature provide a deep understanding of cultural, historical, and social contexts, fostering empathy and cultural competence. Furthermore, you develop creativity and imagination, invaluable in English degree jobs related to marketing, advertising, and content creation assets. 

Overall, an English degree equips you with a versatile skill set applicable across various industries, making you well-prepared for diverse career opportunities. Do you need paper writing help at the moment? Our expert writers are online and ready to assist.

Important Skills an English Major Must Have

English majors develop diverse skills that are valuable in many professions. Here are some important hands-on and transitional skills that English majors typically possess:

• Writing Skills

English majors excel in written communication, including grammar, syntax, and style. They can craft clear, concise, and engaging written content for a variety of purposes and audiences.

• Critical Thinking

English majors are adept at analyzing texts, evaluating arguments, and synthesizing information. They can think critically about complex ideas and express their insights thoughtfully and persuasively.

• Research Skills

English majors are skilled researchers who can locate, evaluate, and incorporate relevant sources into their writing. They know how to conduct thorough research using libraries, databases, and other resources.

• Communication Skills

English majors are effective communicators who can express themselves verbally and non-verbally. They can articulate ideas clearly in conversations, presentations, and public speaking engagements.

• Creativity

English majors are creative thinkers who can generate original ideas, concepts, and solutions. They can approach problems from multiple perspectives and think outside the box to find innovative solutions.

• Attention to Detail

English majors have a keen eye for detail and can spot grammar, punctuation, and formatting errors. They are meticulous in their work and strive for accuracy and precision in their writing.

• Time Management

English majors are skilled at managing time effectively to meet deadlines and balance multiple priorities. They can organize their workload, set goals, and prioritize tasks to ensure timely completion of projects.

• Adaptability

English majors can thrive in diverse environments and situations. They can adjust their communication style, writing tone, and approach to meet the needs of different audiences and contexts.

• Empathy

English majors have empathy and a deep understanding of human emotions, motivations, and experiences. They can connect with others personally and communicate with sensitivity and understanding.

• Open-mindedness

English majors are open-minded and receptive to new ideas, perspectives, and experiences. They value diversity and inclusivity and can respectfully engage with different cultures, viewpoints, and identities. Now, let’s find out what can you do with an English degree to earn a good living. 

What Can You Do With an English Degree

You can pursue diverse career paths with an English degree that leverages your strong communication, critical thinking, research, and writing skills. Graduates often find writing, editing, and publishing English degree jobs as opportunities where they create and refine content for books, magazines, websites, and other media platforms. Additionally, English majors excel in education as teachers, professors, or instructional designers, guiding others in developing their literacy and analytical abilities. They also find roles in marketing, public relations, and communications, crafting compelling messaging and storytelling to engage audiences and enhance brands' reputations. An English major can become an essay writer as a part-time occupation.

Novelist

Novels encompass fictional narratives spanning various genres, from romance to science fiction. Profitability for novelists typically stems from book sales, royalties, and potential adaptation rights for film or television, with successful authors building a loyal readership, leading to long-term income from book sales and potential advances for future works. The average salary for novelists varies widely, with established authors earning significantly more than newcomers. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, the median annual wage for writers and authors is $67,120.

Screenwriter

Screenwriters craft film, television, or other visual media scripts, developing compelling plots, dialogue, and characters. They profit from script sales, optioning rights to studios or producers, and royalties from successful productions, along with residuals for reruns or streaming views of their work, providing ongoing income even after the initial sale. According to the Writers Guild of America, the minimum payment for a feature-length screenplay is $72,662. However, experienced screenwriters and those with successful credits can earn much higher salaries, with top earners making millions for blockbuster films.

Copy Editor

Copy editors are careers for English majors who have a knack for reviewing written content for grammar, punctuation, clarity, and consistency, ensuring adherence to style guidelines. Their profitability stems from freelance or full-time positions at publishing houses, media companies, marketing agencies, or corporate communications departments, where they maintain the quality and professionalism of written materials. The average salary for copy editors varies depending on experience, location, and industry. According to Glassdoor, the national average salary for copy editors in the United States is approximately $51,000 annually.

High School English Teacher

High school teachers are English majors who educate students in literature, writing, grammar, and critical thinking, shaping young minds and contributing to their academic and personal growth. They earn salaries offered by school districts or private institutions, depending on location and experience. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, the median annual wage for high school teachers is $62,870, with the highest 10 percent earning more than $101,310. If you’d like to switch careers, here’s a list of the best online computer science degree programs with higher salaries.

Literary Critic

Literary critics are the jobs you can get with an English degree related to analyzing and evaluating literary works, providing insights into themes, symbolism, style, and cultural significance. They may write reviews for publications, contribute to academic journals, or offer commentary through blogs or social media. Profitability in this role can come from freelance writing opportunities, staff positions at newspapers or magazines, or academic appointments. Literary critics play a vital role in shaping public discourse about literature and influencing readers' perceptions and preferences. According to Glassdoor, the average annual salary for a literary critic in the United States is approximately $45,000.

Content Strategist

Content strategists are another option of what can you do with an English degree concerned with planning, creating, and managing content for websites, social media platforms, and other digital channels. They develop strategies to attract and engage target audiences, aligning content with organizational goals and brand identity. Profitability in this role comes from positions at marketing agencies, corporate marketing departments, or as freelance consultants. Content strategists help businesses build their online presence, drive traffic, and convert leads into customers, making their expertise highly sought after in the digital age. According to Glassdoor, the average annual salary for content strategists in the United States is approximately $72,000.

Communications Manager

Communications managers oversee an organization's internal and external communications, including public relations, media relations, and corporate messaging. They develop communication strategies, manage media inquiries, and ensure consistency in brand messaging. Profitability in these jobs for English majors comes from salaries offered by corporations, nonprofit organizations, government agencies, or PR firms. Communications managers are crucial in shaping public perception, managing crises, and maintaining positive stakeholder relationships. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, the median annual wage for public relations and fundraising managers is $118,430. Are you still a student in need of expert help with the workload? Just say, ‘write my college essay,’ and our authors will lend a helping hand.

Editorial Assistant

Editorial assistants provide administrative support to editors with an English degree in publishing houses, magazines, or media companies. They may assist with manuscript submissions, proofreading, fact-checking, and coordinating publication schedules. Profitability in this role comes from entry-level positions that offer valuable experience and potential for advancement within the publishing industry. Editorial assistants gain insight into the editorial process, develop relationships with authors and agents, and learn about market trends, laying the foundation for a career in publishing. According to Glassdoor, the average annual salary for editorial assistants in the United States is approximately $41,000.

Script Consultant

Script consultants offer feedback and guidance to screenwriters, helping them refine their scripts for film, television, or theater productions. They provide constructive criticism, identify areas for improvement, and offer suggestions to enhance the plot, character development, and dialogue. Profitability in this role for English majors comes from consulting fees charged for script analysis, feedback sessions, and coaching services. Script consultants may work independently or as part of script development teams at production companies or agencies, offering valuable insights to aspiring and established writers. According to ZipRecruiter, the average annual salary for script consultants in the United States is approximately $73,000. Follow these time management tips if you’d like to juggle several duties and still have enough time to yourself.

Grant Coordinator

Grant coordinators research, write, and manage grant proposals on behalf of nonprofit organizations, educational institutions, or government agencies. They identify funding opportunities, develop project proposals, and ensure compliance with grant requirements. Profitability in this role comes from salaries offered by organizations seeking grant funding to support their programs and initiatives. Grant coordinators are crucial in securing financial support for worthy causes, addressing community needs, and driving positive social change through grant-funded projects. PayScale says the average annual salary for grant coordinators in the United States is approximately $51,000. We also have a list of math degree jobs if you or your friends are interested in starting a powerful career.

SEO Content Writer

SEO content writers create written content optimized for search engines, incorporating relevant keywords and phrases to improve visibility and organic traffic. People who major in English may produce blog posts, articles, website copy, or product descriptions tailored to specific target audiences and search queries. Profitability in this role comes from freelance opportunities, content marketing agencies, or in-house positions at companies seeking to improve their online presence. SEO content writers help businesses rank higher in search engine results, attract qualified leads, and increase conversions, making their skills highly valuable in digital marketing. According to Glassdoor, the average annual salary for SEO content writers in the United States is approximately $51,000.

Brand Copywriter

Is there anything else what can you do with an English degree? Brand copywriters develop persuasive messaging and storytelling to promote products, services, or brands across various marketing channels. They create compelling copy for advertisements, marketing campaigns, social media posts, and website content. Profitability in this role comes from positions at advertising agencies, marketing departments, or freelance opportunities. Brand copywriters help companies differentiate themselves in the marketplace, build brand awareness, and connect with their target audience, driving engagement and sales. According to Glassdoor, the average annual salary for brand copywriters in the United States is approximately $58,000.

Publicity Manager

Publicity managers are English degree jobs overseeing public relations and promotional efforts for individuals, organizations, or brands, generating media coverage and managing public perception. They develop PR strategies, pitch stories to journalists, and coordinate press events and interviews. Profitability in this role comes from salaries offered by PR firms, talent agencies, or in-house positions at companies with a public presence. Publicity managers help clients or employers enhance their visibility, manage their reputation, and build positive relationships with the media and the public. PayScale says the average annual salary for publicity managers in the United States is approximately $59,000. If you haven’t decided on your future yet, learn how to choose a college major in our insightful guide.

Digital Content Manager

Digital content managers oversee creating, publishing, and managing digital content across websites, social media platforms, and other digital channels. They develop content strategies, create editorial calendars, and collaborate with content creators to produce engaging multimedia content. Profitability in this role comes from positions at digital marketing agencies, media companies, or in-house marketing departments. Digital content managers help organizations connect with their audience online, drive engagement, and achieve digital marketing goals through strategic content initiatives. According to Glassdoor, the average annual salary for digital content managers in the United States is approximately $73,000.

Instructional Designer

Instructional designers are our final opportunity for someone with an English degree. You’ll develop educational materials and learning experiences for online courses, training programs, or e-learning platforms. They design curricula, develop multimedia content, and incorporate interactive elements to enhance learning outcomes. Profitability in this role comes from positions at educational institutions, corporate training departments, or e-learning companies. Instructional designers are crucial in designing effective and engaging learning experiences, improving knowledge retention and skill development for learners in various contexts. According to PayScale, the average annual salary for instructional designers in the United States is approximately $63,000.

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Summary

While finding jobs for English majors can present challenges, it ultimately depends on the individual's skills, interests, and career goals. English majors possess versatile abilities in critical thinking, communication, research, and writing, and they are highly valued across various industries, such as publishing, education, marketing, journalism, and public relations. 

However, the job market for English majors can be competitive, and graduates may need to demonstrate their proficiency in specific areas, gain relevant experience through internships or freelance work, and effectively market their skills to prospective employers. 

Additionally, networking, professional development, and exploring diverse career paths can enhance job prospects for English majors seeking fulfilling and rewarding employment opportunities.

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