Tips for English Majors: How to Flourish with Your Degree for 2025

by Imed Bouchrika, Phd

Co-Founder and Chief Data Scientist

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The Great Recession of 2007 saw a significant shift in what college majors students were pursuing. According to data gathered by the National Center for Education Statistics (NCES), the number of students settling for English as their major went down by 25.5%. Meanwhile, computer science majors doubled in population. But while many believe that the career outlook for college students is moving in favor of science and technology majors, American economist and Nobel Prize winner Robert Shiller sheds light on the need for communicators and storytellers.

Other economists agree with Shiller’s idea that good storytellers are just as necessary as number-crunching and code-building professionals. After all, it is through storytelling that people understand how things work, and people who have an excellent command of the language like English majors know how to utilize it to effectively communicate messages that can make a significant impact on the world. And in the midst of continuously evolving trends in various industries, storytellers and communicators are carving their own place.

In this article, we will not only look into how to make money as an English major but also offer you valuable tips on how you can make a solid career out of it.

Tips for English Majors Table of Contents

1. Find your purpose
2. Upskill yourself
3. Prioritize your passion
4. Learn other skills that pair well with what you already have
5. Select a capstone project that demonstrates your skills
6. Take a risk
7. How English majors can build a professional network
8. How Can a Strong Personal Brand Accelerate Your Career as an English Major?
9. Strategies for Accelerating Your English Degree and Entering the Workforce Faster
10. What are the remote work opportunities that English majors can pursue
11. Could a Master’s in Education Broaden Your Career Horizons?
12. Can a human services degree online enhance your career prospects?
13. Can an Online Doctorate in Educational Leadership Transform an English Major's Career Trajectory?
14. How to Choose the Right Complementary Minor
15. Can an Advanced Degree Boost Career Prospects for English Majors?
16. Should a Master's in Library Science Amplify an English Major’s Career Prospects?
17. Can an Online Master's in Special Education Expand Career Opportunities for English Majors?

English as a college major suffers from the stigma of lacking prestige and the promise of financial security. Many believe that pursuing an English degree, whether in-campus or online, is a waste of time because the career path it leads to is not as concrete as the ones laid out for STEM and even business majors. The value of this major, however, is lost to those who only view it as such.

Career Profile of English Majors

The career path for English majors is vast and varied. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, English degree-holders are spread across different fields of occupation. In fact, English majors have a great contribution to the economy. One common thing about the country’s notable songwriters, television producers, film directors, journalists, and CEOs is their English degree roots (GetEducated, n.d.).

The general consensus that English majors are only good for academic-related professions, particularly teaching positions, has also been proven to be a fallacy. Current studies show how employers want graduates to have soft skills training. In the Morning Consult for Cengage survey, results indicate that 69% of employers from different industries look for graduates with good communication skills—skills that English majors possess.

Tips for English Majors

“There are no careers for English degree-holders," “Writing is not a sought-after skill," “An English major is only taken by those who want to become teachers," “English is just like any other humanities degree," and “Arts degrees do not matter in real life" are common takes from your concerned family and friends. Despite the fact that you love writing or you are good at it, their worry is about you becoming a starving artist someday (Dalton, 2020).

Investing in English as a college degree is risky but rewarding if you are careful enough. Here are some tips on what to do with an English major.

Find your purpose

With an English degree, you can go from analyzing literature to being a business magnate. An accountant might be working solely with a range of ways to compare numbers on Excel, but an English degree-holder has the freedom to pursue historical literature, modern trends in publishing, and technical writing. Yet, that does not mean that you can take whatever class that interests you because some of them will not be of use to you. Embark on your studies with the right purpose.

Think of what you really want to do after college, how would you want to grow as an individual and a professional, what skills would be most helpful to your job, and so on. You do not have to know the exact answers to these concerns, but, at least, have an idea of the path that you want to approach.

If writing majors, apply their degrees correctly, they can maximize their skills and actually use them in real life. And there are many success stories out there. But, to lean the odds towards your favor, you should really plan your way in and out of college and take classes that are vital to your major.

Upskill yourself

Improve your English skills, whatever they are that you possess. Choose a class that will help you become a better writer, speaker, reader, or storyteller in the future. Having said that, you also need to be creative in seeing the advantage of certain classes. For instance, your journalism skills may not improve in a literature class, but this class can help you improve your researching, interviewing, and fact-checking skills, which are all useful to journalists.

Developing a specialization is viable if you take classes based on the possibilities of enhancing your skills (Dalton, 2020).

Prioritize your passion

As an English major, you will be tasked to write thousands of words per week. And no matter how much you love writing, you will most likely get tired of it. The desire to write will fade, making cohesive thoughts will be a test, finishing a research paper will be a struggle, and even the simplest writing task will look like a problem. Yes, college can do that to a writer and others. While this feeling is inevitable, you must always remind yourself of the reasons why you took English. Do not let your mind take over your writing.

How about writing a short essay or poem after every research paper? Have you also tried sharing with other people what you have written? Or what about using Facebook whenever you do not feel like writing at all? Published in the European Journal of Investigation in Health, Psychology and Education is Blanka Klimova and Marcel Pikhart’s 2019 article “Cognitive and Applied Linguistics Aspects of Using Social Media: The Impact of the Use of Facebook on Developing Writing Skills in Learning English as a Foreign Language." This study discusses how the platform can aid students in learning English and further improving their skills related to it. “Facebook is especially used in developing productive language skills such as writing, which is considered to be the least popular and the most difficult skill to master. Students are not usually motivated enough to develop the skill of writing. However, Facebook can help with the development of this skill because students have a positive attitude towards using Facebook in practicing their writing skills."

Get yourself lost in your passion. Keep in mind that it is not your grades that will give life to your writing—it is your heart and passion for it.

Learn other skills that pair well with what you already have

A bachelor’s degree in music does not qualify one for a high-income generating job at a technology firm. Similarly, an English degree cannot land you down your dream job right after graduation. Your English-centered knowledge and skills may be appropriate in some situations, but they are not your most treasured tools for professional success.

Writing alone, for example, is not enough to make you employable in most careers. Make yourself more valuable by learning skills that pair well with it. Learn how to research products and present them in a more easily understandable manner. If you are into journalism, learn how to understand politics and predict the readers’ minds. If you are into sales, know the difference between writing for a direct mail marketing campaign, website copies, and social media posts.

Having these skills will show that you can adapt to any business environment. Moreover, you will have an advantage over other candidates with the same degree (Dalton, 2020).

Select a capstone project that demonstrates your skills

Your capstone project is one of the most pertinent choices you will make as an English degree holder. Aside from the fact that obtaining your degree relies on your fruitful project completion, it is also your final chance to distance yourself from the rest and have an edge in getting a job. Therefore, selecting a project that best demonstrates your skills is crucial.

For example, if you dream of establishing a publishing house but are also into business, your capstone project should be about how marketing theories could be used in fiction writing to make reading a trend again across the globe.

Take a risk

An English degree is not the easiest road to achieve victory. It is also not a secure approach, especially if a high salary is the target. Even so, if you feel that this is your path, take the risk and feel contented about your decision.

It is true that your degree should be applicable in the real world and influence what you take in college. Nonetheless, picking a degree based merely on how you can profit from it would be unwise as well. If you do not like a specific field, you would not love or become passionate about it. Without love or passion, the drive to succeed will be hard to come by. First, you will hate one assignment, next the entire class, eventually the subject, then college life itself.

Pushing yourself to do something that you do not want is the gateway to failure. Plus, four or more years in college can be challenging to endure. For these reasons, finding the thing that interests you and specializing in it are the most logical decisions to make.

How English majors can build a professional network

Building a strong professional network is essential for English majors looking to advance their careers. A robust network can provide job leads, mentorship opportunities, and insider knowledge about various industries.

• Engage with Alumni Networks: Many universities have alumni networks that can connect you with professionals who studied English and now work in diverse fields. Reach out to alumni through networking events, social media, or your school’s alumni association to learn about their career paths and seek advice.
• Attend Industry Events and Conferences: Conferences, literary festivals, and industry-specific events (like publishing or marketing expos) are excellent places to meet professionals and like-minded peers. These events provide opportunities to make connections with people who can offer insights or recommend you for internships and job openings.
• Join Professional Organizations: Professional associations, such as the American Writers & Artists Institute (AWAI) or the Public Relations Society of America (PRSA), offer access to resources, job boards, and networking events. Membership in these groups can enhance your resume and expand your network.
• Leverage Social Media for Professional Growth: Platforms like LinkedIn are essential for showcasing your skills, sharing writing samples, and connecting with professionals in writing, editing, publishing, and related fields. Follow industry influencers, join LinkedIn groups, and participate in discussions to stay updated on industry trends and build your presence.
• Seek Informational Interviews: Connect with professionals in fields that interest you and request brief, informational interviews. Many are willing to share advice and insights about their industry and may provide you with helpful career guidance or potential job leads.
• Participate in Writing Communities: Engage with online writing communities, attend writing workshops, or join book clubs to connect with others who have similar interests. These communities can provide not only feedback on your work but also opportunities to meet potential collaborators and mentors.

How Can a Strong Personal Brand Accelerate Your Career as an English Major?

Establishing a distinct personal brand in your academic and professional journey is a pivotal strategy that differentiates you in a competitive job market. Curate a professional portfolio showcasing a diverse range of writing samples, research projects, and creative works that illuminate your expertise and individual narrative. Enhance your digital presence through professional networks and industry-recognized platforms by consistently sharing relevant insights and achievements. Additionally, supplement your core degree with targeted certifications and short courses that reinforce your multidisciplinary skill set—often seen as a strategic complement to a focused academic path, similar to the opportunities offered in the easiest degree to get. This comprehensive approach not only builds credibility but also positions you as an innovative communicator ready to capitalize on emerging career opportunities.

Strategies for Accelerating Your English Degree and Entering the Workforce Faster

One meaningful way for English majors to maximize their potential is by exploring opportunities to accelerate their degree completion. Cutting down the time it takes to earn your degree not only reduces tuition costs but also allows you to start building your career earlier. Programs aimed at helping students achieve the quickest bachelor degree online are gaining significant traction. These programs often allow you to transfer credits, take accelerated courses, and flexibly manage your schedule while building industry-relevant skills.

For instance, online bachelor’s programs can offer English majors a chance to focus on coursework that melds creativity and marketable skills such as digital marketing, content strategy, or technical writing. By strategically selecting course loads and leveraging available credit transfer policies, students can spend less time in school without sacrificing the quality of their education. Additionally, fast-tracked programs may provide English majors with early exposure to internships and work experience, giving them a competitive edge in the job market.

If you’re ready to explore ways to expedite your journey to earning a degree, check out this guide on the quickest bachelor degree online to see how you can start your career sooner.

What are the remote work opportunities that English majors can pursue

The rise of remote work has revolutionized many industries, and English majors are well-positioned to take advantage of these new opportunities. With strong communication skills, the ability to write clearly and concisely, and a knack for problem-solving, English majors can thrive in a remote work environment.

Here are a few remote work opportunities that English majors and self paced online college can pursue:

• Content Writer: Create engaging blog posts, articles, and social media content for businesses and organizations.
• Copywriter: Develop persuasive copy for marketing materials, advertisements, and product descriptions.
• Technical Writer: Create clear and concise documentation for software, hardware, and other technical products.
• Grant Writer: Write compelling grant proposals to secure funding for non-profit organizations and research projects.
• Editor: Edit and proofread written materials for clarity, accuracy, and consistency.
• Social Media Manager: Manage social media accounts, create engaging content, and monitor online brand reputation.
• Virtual Assistant: Provide administrative, technical, or creative assistance to clients remotely.
• Online Tutor: Tutor students in English, writing, or other subjects through online platforms.

Could a Master’s in Education Broaden Your Career Horizons?

English majors can diversify their career options by integrating advanced educational credentials that emphasize teaching methodologies, curriculum development, and educational leadership. This specialized focus not only prepares graduates for classroom instruction but also for roles in educational program management and consultancy. Moreover, such qualifications can be instrumental in bridging the gap between creative communication skills and structured pedagogical strategies, thereby enhancing both marketability and professional versatility. Consider enrolling in the cheapest master's in education online to gain a competitive edge in various educational settings.

Can a human services degree online enhance your career prospects?

For English majors aiming to broaden their professional reach, supplementing your expertise with studies in human services can diversify career opportunities in areas such as community outreach, advocacy, and nonprofit administration. Integrating this additional perspective refines your communication skills while deepening your understanding of social frameworks, making you more competitive in roles that require both analytical and empathetic abilities. Consider the strategic advantages of pursuing a human services degree online as a method to further enhance your academic portfolio and marketability in the workforce.

Can an Online Doctorate in Educational Leadership Transform an English Major's Career Trajectory?

For English majors aiming to step into institutional leadership or academic administration, an online doctorate in educational leadership provides a strategic pathway to broaden professional horizons. This advanced program fosters enhanced decision-making skills, deepens understanding of educational policies, and cultivates transformative leadership practices that complement core communication strengths. With flexible, research-driven curricula, graduates are better positioned to bridge literary expertise and strategic management, positioning themselves for evolving roles in education and beyond. Explore opportunities with the most affordable online doctorate of educational leadership to integrate advanced leadership acumen into your career development.

How to Choose the Right Complementary Minor

Selecting a complementary minor can enhance the versatility of your English degree and make you more attractive to prospective employers. By pairing your English major with a strategically chosen minor, you can gain a multidisciplinary skill set that opens doors across industries. For example, coupling your English degree with a minor in Digital Marketing strengthens your ability to craft compelling stories while equipping you to succeed in the digital age. Similarly, a minor in Computer Science or Data Analytics can make you an indispensable asset when it comes to technical writing or content strategy.

Other minors, such as Business Administration, Education, or Psychology, can provide multiple avenues for career exploration post-graduation. These combinations cater to diverse interests—from understanding consumer behavior for marketing roles to developing innovative methods for instructional design. As one of the most popular college majors, the English degree already fosters critical thinking and communication skills, but the right minor complements these abilities with practical knowledge aligned to high-demand industries.

When deciding on a minor, reflect on your career goals and tailor your coursework to fill skill gaps that align with your aspirations. For instance, if you aim to excel in publishing, consider a minor in Graphic Design to understand visual elements of book layout. If journalism interests you, a Political Science minor might deepen your grasp of governance, enhancing the credibility of your reporting. Planning your academic journey in this manner ensures that you emerge from college as a well-rounded candidate ready to meet the needs of an evolving workforce.

Can an Advanced Degree Boost Career Prospects for English Majors?

English majors seeking to enhance their professional impact may explore advanced degree options that refine leadership, research, and communication expertise. Graduate studies offer a specialized curriculum that deepens analytical abilities, positions you for higher responsibilities, and opens avenues in academia, publishing, or corporate communications. These programs also facilitate direct networking opportunities and access to industry-specific resources, thereby accelerating career transitions and promotions. Evaluate innovative pathways such as EdD education programs that emphasize fast-track progression and professional growth.

Should a Master's in Library Science Amplify an English Major’s Career Prospects?

English majors seeking to diversify their expertise and stand out in competitive fields may find that specialized training in library science complements their core strengths. Integrating research methodologies, information management, and digital archiving skills can enhance both academic and professional profiles, opening opportunities in education, public service, and digital media environments. For a cost-effective approach to further specialization, consider the cheapest online master's in library science as a strategic investment in your career development.

Can an Online Master's in Special Education Expand Career Opportunities for English Majors?

English majors can further distinguish their profiles by integrating specialized training in special education. This targeted approach not only strengthens communication and instructional skills but also prepares professionals to address diverse learning needs in educational settings. A dedicated focus on inclusive pedagogical strategies enriches an English major’s capacity to lead and innovate within academic and community environments. Advancing your education with online special education master's programs offers flexible, career-enhancing opportunities that complement the broad competencies developed through an English degree.

What Matters the Most

Comparing how engineers make more money than writers will only frustrate you. In your search for answers to what to do with an English major, do not stress yourself too much about choosing the most beneficial college degree, because it might not even exist. There might not be one course that is naturally more beneficial than others. Look at some arts major degree-holders who are way more successful than business degree-holders today.

Each degree is beneficial if practiced suitably. If your preferred degree does not belong in the list of the supposedly beneficial ones, make the most out of it by honing your skills, learning new ones, and adapting to new environments that complement your capabilities. The thing is, the real benefits of college education do not just depend on your degree alone, it is what you do with it (Dalton, 2020).

Key Insights

• Shift in Majors Post-Recession: The Great Recession led to a significant decline in students majoring in English, with a 25.5% drop, while computer science majors doubled, indicating a shift towards STEM fields.
• Value of Storytelling: Despite the trend towards science and technology, economists like Nobel Prize winner Robert Shiller emphasize the continued need for communicators and storytellers, highlighting the importance of English majors.
• Broad Career Path: English majors contribute significantly to various fields such as songwriting, journalism, film, and television production, demonstrating their versatility and value in the economy.
• Employer Demand for Soft Skills: Employers from various industries highly value the communication skills that English majors possess, with 69% of employers looking for graduates with strong communication abilities.
• Developing Complementary Skills: English majors can enhance their employability by acquiring additional skills that complement their degree, such as research, marketing, and technical writing.
• Passion and Purpose: Success in an English major requires a clear sense of purpose and passion for writing, which can sustain students through the challenges of their studies and future careers.
• Capstone Projects: Selecting a capstone project that showcases one’s skills and aligns with career aspirations is crucial for standing out in the job market.

FAQ

1. What career opportunities are available for English majors? English majors have diverse career opportunities across various fields such as writing, editing, publishing, journalism, marketing, public relations, and education. They can also find roles in business, law, and technology where strong communication skills are valued.
2. How can English majors enhance their employability? English majors can enhance their employability by developing complementary skills such as research, marketing, and technical writing. They can also pursue internships, engage in extracurricular activities, and build a portfolio of their work to showcase their skills and experience.
3. Is an English degree only useful for teaching careers? No, an English degree is not limited to teaching careers. While teaching is a common path, English majors also excel in fields like journalism, marketing, public relations, content creation, and corporate communications, among others.
4. How important are communication skills in today’s job market? Communication skills are highly valued in today’s job market. Employers from various industries seek graduates who can effectively convey ideas, collaborate with others, and present information clearly. English majors, with their strong communication skills, are well-positioned to meet this demand.
5. What should English majors consider when selecting their courses? English majors should consider their career goals and interests when selecting courses. They should choose classes that will enhance their writing, speaking, and analytical skills, and also explore interdisciplinary courses that complement their degree.
6. How can English majors stay motivated throughout their studies? English majors can stay motivated by focusing on their passion for writing and storytelling. Setting clear goals, seeking feedback from peers and mentors, and engaging in creative projects can help sustain their enthusiasm and commitment.
7. Are there financial challenges associated with pursuing an English degree? Like many other degrees, pursuing an English degree can come with financial challenges. However, students can seek scholarships, grants, and part-time work opportunities to help manage the costs. Additionally, developing a strong skill set can lead to well-paying job opportunities post-graduation.
8. What role does a capstone project play for English majors? A capstone project is a significant component of an English major’s education. It provides an opportunity to demonstrate their skills, knowledge, and creativity. A well-chosen capstone project can showcase their abilities to potential employers and set them apart in the job market.
9. How can English majors leverage their degree in the business world? English majors can leverage their degree in the business world by highlighting their communication, analytical, and critical thinking skills. They can pursue roles in marketing, public relations, corporate communications, and content creation, where these skills are highly valued.
10. What advice would you give to someone considering an English major? If you are passionate about writing, storytelling, and communication, an English major can be a fulfilling choice. Focus on developing a strong skill set, seek out complementary skills, and stay open to diverse career opportunities. Remember, success in any field comes from dedication, hard work, and a willingness to adapt and grow.

References:

• Dalton, W. (2020, August 28). English Majors, listen up! Here’s How to Make the Most of Your Degree. Pearson.
• GetEducated. (n.d.). 14 Highest-Paying Jobs for English Majors. GetEducated.
• Klimova, B. & Pikhart, M. (2019, October 3). Cognitive and Applied Lingustics Aspects of Using Social Media: The Impact of the Use of Facebook on Developing Writing Skills in Learning English as a Foreign Language. European Journal of Investigation in Health, Psychology and Education.
• Rose, H. (2019, July). The future of English in global higher education: Shifting trends from teaching English to teaching through English. ResearchGate.
• U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics. (2021, December 3). Occupational Outlook Handbook: Field of Degree: English. U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics.