Since before I started my undergraduate career in English, particularly writing, I’ve had to deal with people wondering what the heck I can do with an English degree. Although we use English every day, there still seems to be some sort of stigma around it as a degree or field. Don’t let this conflict get to you though, fellow English majors, there are plenty of jobs and opportunities for you, so here’s a few:

Journalism

Like many types of jobs, you technically need a journalism degree to get involved in the field. All English majors obviously learn how to write well, utilize key critical thinking skills, how to organize information, etc. Stepping into this type of work through general English may be easier than it sounds.

Communications

Merriam-Webster defines communication as “a process by which information is exchanged between individuals through a common system of symbols, signs, or behavior." Because this field primarily utilizes, dare I say, means of communication, English majors may have an easy time testing these waters. Especially since many college students use social media to an exponential degree, the field and concepts of communications may come more naturally than they do to older counterparts.

Most positions in any workplace really

If you can write complete, grammatically correct, and well-styled sentences in English, then a lot of businesses will want to hire you. Most people don’t think about it, but important businessmen don’t have the time to write out a company’s entire report or send routine emails, so that’s where you come in. Many businesses often want employees who can simply write, so having a strong writing background will help to secure you a job almost anywhere.

Remember English majors, don’t let your parents, society, or your undergraduate advisor tell you that a degree in English isn’t worth the money. Once you hold it in your hands, you’ll be qualified for a vast amount of jobs and opportunities.

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