What Can I Do With an English Major?

Choosing English as a major, second major, minor or certificate is an incredibly practical decision. You will gain highly marketable skills that can make you a competitive job candidate in many different sectors, including business, education, government, health care, nonprofit, science and technology.

Nonteaching careers for English majors include writing/editing, publishing, public relations, law, business and industry, grant writing, banking and many others. Skills and knowledge acquired through the study of English include the ability to:

• Adapt ideas, analyze complex ideas.
• Argue logically.
• Communicate accurately, clearly, concisely and coherently.
• Define, design and direct projects.
• Gather information.
• Generate ideas.
• Influence and persuade.
  
• Inform and explain.
• Interpret instructions.
• Justify decisions.
• Question conventions.
• Read for tone.
• Rewrite and edit.
• Summarize information and synthesize ideas from multiple sources.
  

The ability to apply an English degree to multiple careers stems from the skills obtained in the program. You'll learn to think critically and solve problems; communicate clearly, critically and creatively; interpret and analyze text, speech, and data; edit your writing, as well as others; and collaborate with colleagues and clients on projects.

While preparing for your chosen vocation, studying English also cultivates a love of reading, thinking and the virtues of learning as a way of life.​ But you don't have to take our word for it: the Dear English Major website has lots of information on applying your degree to a career, and the BBC has articles on "Why 'worthless' humanities degrees may set you up for life."

Contact or email the English Department today to find how a degree in English can fit your career path.