Last Updated on July 17, 2026 by Status.net Editorial Team
Table of Contents
English majors develop valuable skills including critical thinking, clear communication, and analytical abilities that employers in many fields appreciate. These skills transfer well across industries like publishing, marketing, education, and business.
English degree jobs span far beyond the classroom. Graduates work in publishing houses, corporate offices, nonprofit organizations, law firms, and increasingly in tech companies that need strong writers to shape user experiences. If you are wondering what you can do with an English degree besides teach, the honest answer is that the reading, writing, and analytical skills you built in seminar rooms show up daily in dozens of professions, some obvious and some you may not have considered yet.
Part 1Types of English Degrees and How They Shape Your Career
Not all English degrees lead to the same opportunities. The specific degree you pursue, and the concentration within it, often shapes which of the careers below will feel like a natural fit.
- Bachelor of Arts (BA) in English is the most common route and typically emphasizes literature, literary theory, and broad humanities coursework alongside writing-intensive classes.
- Bachelor of Science (BS) in English, offered at some universities, leans more toward technical or professional writing, linguistics, or rhetoric, and can pair well with technical writing or corporate communications careers.
- English Education degree combines English coursework with teacher preparation and student teaching, leading directly to K-12 certification in most states.
- Creative Writing concentration focuses on workshops in fiction, poetry, or nonfiction, and suits students aiming for publishing, literary agencies, or freelance authorship.
- Rhetoric and Composition or Technical Communication concentration builds skills in persuasive and instructional writing, a strong foundation for technical writing, UX writing, or grant writing careers.
- English Literature concentration emphasizes close reading and critical analysis, which serves students headed toward graduate study, law school, or editorial work.
A minor or double major in a second field, such as business, computer science, or a foreign language, often widens the range of jobs available to English graduates and can be worth considering if you already know which industry interests you.
Part 2Jobs with an English Degree
1) Teaching and Education Careers
Many English graduates become teachers at different levels. High school English teachers earn around $60,000-$65,000 annually, teaching literature, grammar, and writing to teens.
A typical day includes:
- Leading 5-6 class periods
- Grading papers during prep periods
- Meeting with students who need extra help
- Planning future lessons
College professors focus on specific areas like composition or American literature. Their salaries range from $60,000 to $100,000+ depending on rank and institution. Professors need a PhD, which takes about 5-7 years after a bachelor’s degree.
Elementary and middle school teachers might teach all subjects, using their strong language skills across the curriculum. These positions typically require a bachelor’s degree plus teaching certification, which varies by state.
Career changers who already hold an English degree often qualify for alternative certification programs, which let you start teaching while completing certification requirements alongside your job. These programs can take anywhere from several months to two years depending on the state and subject shortage areas.
2) Publishing and Editing Careers
The publishing industry offers various paths for English majors. Copy editors review texts for grammar, style, and clarity, earning $45,000-$60,000 annually.
Content editors work more deeply with authors to shape books and articles. Their work involves:
- Suggesting structural changes
- Helping clarify arguments
- Ensuring the text meets audience needs
- Managing deadlines
Editorial assistants (entry-level positions) earn $35,000-$45,000, while senior editors can make $70,000-$100,000+.
A typical day in publishing might include manuscript reviews, author calls, team meetings, and writing editorial notes. Most positions require a bachelor’s degree, strong writing skills, and often internship experience.
Technical editors, who specialize in scientific or technical materials, can earn higher salaries ($60,000-$80,000) but may need additional specialized knowledge.
3) Journalism and Reporting Jobs
Reporters research and write news stories for various media. Entry-level reporters earn $35,000-$45,000, while experienced journalists at major outlets can make $60,000-$100,000+.
The daily routine of a journalist includes:
- Researching current events
- Interviewing sources
- Writing stories on tight deadlines
- Updating stories as new information arrives
News editors manage teams of reporters, assign stories, and make content decisions. They typically earn $60,000-$80,000 after gaining experience as reporters.
Digital media has created demand for content writers who produce articles, blogs, and social media content. These positions often start at $40,000-$50,000.
Most journalism positions require a bachelor’s degree. Many journalists start with internships or work at small publications before moving to larger outlets. Strong writing skills, attention to detail, and the ability to meet deadlines are essential for success.
4) Copywriting and Content Creation Jobs
Copywriters develop persuasive text for advertisements, websites, emails, and marketing materials. They transform product features into benefits that resonate with target audiences.
Job duties include:
- Writing attention-grabbing headlines and calls to action
- Collaborating with designers and marketing teams
- Researching target audiences and competitors
- Editing and proofreading content for clarity and brand voice
A typical day might involve brainstorming sessions, writing several pieces of content, and revising work based on client feedback.
The average salary ranges from $50,000 to $75,000 annually, with senior copywriters earning $85,000+.
Breaking into copywriting typically requires a portfolio of writing samples. While a degree in English or marketing helps, employers value candidates who demonstrate strong writing skills regardless of educational background.
5) Technical Writing Jobs
Technical writers translate complex information into clear, accessible content for users. They create instruction manuals, help documentation, and process guides.
Job responsibilities:
- Interviewing subject matter experts to gather information
- Organizing complex concepts logically
- Creating diagrams and visual aids
- Testing procedures to ensure accuracy
Technical writers earn approximately $65,000 to $85,000 annually. Senior technical writers with specialized knowledge can command $100,000+.
A typical workday involves researching technical concepts, drafting documentation, and collaborating with developers, engineers, or scientists.
Most positions require a bachelor’s degree in English, communications, or a technical field. Technical knowledge in the relevant industry proves beneficial, and certifications from organizations like the Society for Technical Communication can enhance job prospects.
6) Grant and Proposal Writing Jobs
Grant writers secure funding for nonprofits, educational institutions, and government agencies by crafting compelling proposals.
Key responsibilities:
- Researching funding opportunities and requirements
- Gathering project data and budget information
- Drafting persuasive narratives that align with funders’ priorities
- Tracking application deadlines and submission requirements
Grant writers typically earn $55,000 to $75,000 annually, with experienced writers commanding higher salaries based on their success rate.
Their workday often includes meetings with program directors, researching funders, writing proposal sections, and tracking outcomes of submitted applications.
Many grant writers have backgrounds in English, nonprofit management, or specific subject areas relevant to their organization’s mission. Success in this field depends on strong research skills, attention to detail, and the ability to tell compelling stories about an organization’s impact.
7) Literary and Creative Writing Jobs
- Fiction Writer works independently creating novels, short stories, and other narrative works. Writers typically spend their days drafting, editing, and revising manuscripts while researching topics relevant to their stories.
- Screenwriter develops scripts for films, television shows, and other visual media. Daily work includes outlining plots, developing characters, and formatting dialogue according to industry standards.
Average salaries range from $35,000-$70,000 annually, though successful writers can earn considerably more through royalties and contracts. Most positions require a bachelor’s degree in English or related field, with portfolio development being crucial for breaking into the industry.
8) Media and Communications Careers
- Public Relations Specialist ($60,000-$90,000) manages an organization’s public image by crafting press releases, organizing media events, and developing communication strategies.
A typical day might include monitoring social media, responding to press inquiries, and collaborating with marketing teams to maintain consistent messaging. - Content Strategist ($65,000-$100,000) plans, creates, and manages content across platforms to achieve business goals. They often analyze audience data, develop editorial calendars, and ensure content aligns with brand voice.
- Communications Director ($80,000-$120,000) oversees all external and internal communications for organizations. This role requires strong leadership skills and typically involves managing teams, developing communication policies, and serving as spokesperson during crisis situations.
These positions generally require a bachelor’s degree in English or communications. Professional certification through organizations like the Public Relations Society of America can boost employment prospects. Experience with digital media tools and analytics platforms is increasingly valuable.
9) Marketing and Promotions Jobs
Marketing teams value English majors for their ability to craft compelling content that connects with audiences. These professionals create ad copy, social media posts, and campaign materials that tell a brand’s story.
Job Duties:
- Writing persuasive copy for advertisements and marketing materials
- Researching target audiences and market trends
- Developing brand messaging strategies
- Collaborating with designers and sales teams
Typical Salary: $50,000-$85,000 annually, depending on experience and location.
A typical day might include brainstorming sessions for upcoming campaigns, writing content, reviewing analytics, and attending team meetings to discuss strategy.
To enter this field, English majors can enhance their degrees with marketing courses or certifications. Some positions require 1-2 years of experience, though entry-level roles exist for strong communicators.
10) Corporate Communications Jobs
Corporate communications professionals manage both internal and external messaging for companies. They ensure information flows clearly through the organization and to the public.
Job Duties:
- Writing press releases and corporate statements
- Developing internal newsletters and communication materials
- Managing crisis communications
- Creating and maintaining company style guides
Typical Salary: $55,000-$95,000 annually, with higher earnings at larger corporations.
Communication specialists might spend their day drafting executive speeches, coordinating with media contacts, and planning communication strategies for company announcements.
The path to this career often starts with a bachelor’s degree in English or communications. Many professionals gain experience through internships or entry-level PR roles before advancing to corporate positions.
11) Law and Advocacy Careers
English graduates often excel in legal careers due to their analytical reading and writing abilities.
Lawyers with English backgrounds typically earn $126,930 annually, analyzing documents, preparing cases, and representing clients in court. A typical day involves client meetings, research, and drafting legal documents.
To become a lawyer, you’ll need:
- Bachelor’s degree (English works well)
- Law school (3 years)
- Passing the bar exam
Advocates and lobbyists use persuasive communication to influence policy changes. These professionals earn $68,000-$115,000 depending on their organization and experience level.
Daily activities might include:
- Meeting with policymakers
- Researching issues
- Drafting position papers
- Building coalitions
12) Library and Information Science Careers
Librarians do much more than shelve books. They manage information systems, develop collections, and create community programs.
The role requires:
- Master’s in Library Science (1-2 years)
- Sometimes state certification
- Average salary: $61,190
A day might include cataloging materials, helping patrons with research, and organizing events. Academic librarians often work with scholarly publications and literary journals.
Digital librarians specialize in electronic resources, earning $65,000-$75,000 while managing online databases and digital collections.
Subject specialists in areas like law or medicine can earn higher salaries ($70,000+) by combining their English background with specialized knowledge.
13) Museums, Nonprofits, and Government Careers
English majors can apply their research and communication skills in cultural institutions and public service.
Museum curators typically need:
- Master’s degree in museum studies or related field
- Knowledge of history and artifacts
- Salary range: $52,000-$91,000
Their days involve researching collections, writing exhibit descriptions, and planning educational programs.
Government agencies hire English graduates as:
- Technical writers ($74,650)
- Communications specialists ($62,340)
- Policy analysts ($77,430)
These roles involve drafting documents, analyzing policies, and communicating complex information to the public.
Nonprofits value English graduates for grant writing and community outreach positions, with salaries ranging from $45,000-$65,000 depending on the organization’s size and mission.
14) Jobs in Literary Agencies
Literary agents represent authors and help them sell their work to publishers. They review manuscripts, negotiate contracts, and advise writers on career decisions.
A literary agent typically earns $50,000-$100,000 annually, with income coming from commissions (usually 15% of author earnings).
Daily tasks include:
• Reading submissions from potential clients
• Communicating with editors at publishing houses
• Negotiating contract terms
• Providing feedback on manuscripts
To become a literary agent, you might want to gain experience in publishing first. Many start as assistants at agencies, learning the business from experienced agents. A background in English gives you the critical reading skills needed to evaluate manuscripts effectively.
15) Consulting And Freelance Services
English graduates can offer writing and editing services to businesses across various industries.
Freelance writers and editors typically earn $30-$75 per hour, with rates varying based on experience and specialization. Some professionals charge per project rather than hourly.
Common consulting services include:
• Content strategy development
• Brand voice creation
• Editorial calendar planning
• Writing training for employees
A typical day might involve meeting with clients, researching industry topics, drafting content, and editing materials.
You can start a consulting business with minimal formal requirements beyond your English degree. Building a portfolio of work samples helps attract clients.
16) Teaching English as a Foreign Language
English graduates with an interest in travel or global work often pursue teaching English as a foreign language, either abroad or with international students domestically. This career path uses many of the same lesson-planning and communication skills as classroom teaching, applied in a different setting.
- Designing lessons for non-native speakers at varying proficiency levels
- Leading conversation practice and grammar instruction
- Preparing students for standardized tests like TOEFL or IELTS
- Adapting materials for cultural context and different learning styles
TEFL teachers abroad typically earn $20,000-$40,000 annually depending on the country and cost of living, though positions in the Middle East and parts of Asia sometimes pay more. Corporate language trainers who teach business English to employees can earn $45,000-$65,000.
A typical day includes teaching several classes, preparing materials, and often participating in cultural exchange activities with students or colleagues.
Most TEFL positions require a bachelor’s degree (an English degree qualifies well) plus a TEFL or TESOL certification, which can be completed in a few weeks to a few months. Some countries also request a background check, and certain regions prefer candidates who speak a second language.
17) Remote, Freelance, And Flexible Writing Jobs
Not every English degree job fits a traditional nine-to-five schedule. Graduates who need flexibility, whether for family responsibilities, other work commitments, or a preference for working outside standard business hours, often build careers around remote and freelance writing work.
- Online proofreading and copyediting through freelance platforms or publishing services
- Virtual tutoring in reading, writing, or test preparation, including evening and overnight shifts for tutoring students in different time zones
- Transcription and captioning work, which is often self-scheduled
- Remote content writing or blog writing for companies that hire distributed teams
Freelance proofreaders and remote content writers typically earn $20-$50 per hour depending on experience and niche, while online tutoring platforms often pay $15-$35 per hour with flexible, self-selected shifts, including nights and weekends.
Many of these roles can be done from home on a schedule you set yourself, which makes them appealing for English graduates balancing other jobs, caregiving, or a preference for non-traditional hours.
Building a client base or getting accepted onto tutoring and freelance platforms usually takes some upfront effort, such as creating writing samples or passing a subject-matter assessment. Ongoing work often requires no additional certification beyond your degree and demonstrated skill.
Part 3Highest-Paying Jobs for English Majors
English majors sometimes worry that their degree caps their earning potential. In practice, the highest-paying jobs for English majors tend to be the ones where writing and analytical skills combine with specialization, management responsibility, or a professional credential.
- Lawyer ($126,930 median): English majors often perform well on the LSAT and in law school because of their reading comprehension and argumentation skills.
- Communications Director ($80,000-$120,000+): Years of experience managing communications teams and crisis response typically precede this role.
- Content Strategist or UX Writer ($65,000-$110,000+): Tech companies pay well for writers who can shape how users experience products, especially when paired with some familiarity with product design or data analysis.
- Technical Writing Manager ($90,000-$120,000+): Senior technical writers who move into management, especially in software or engineering-heavy industries, often see significant salary jumps.
- Marketing Director ($90,000-$130,000+): English majors who build marketing experience and eventually oversee brand strategy and campaigns can reach senior salary bands.
- Policy Analyst ($77,430 median): Government and think-tank roles reward strong research and writing skills applied to public policy questions.
Salary growth in most of these paths depends less on the degree itself and more on specialization, added credentials (like a law degree or MBA), and moving into leadership roles over time.
Part 4How to Choose the Right Career Path
With so many career options for an English degree, narrowing down where to start can feel harder than the degree itself. A few questions can help focus the search.
- What part of the work energizes you? Some English graduates love the solitary focus of long-form writing, while others thrive on collaboration, deadlines, or persuasion. Notice which class projects or extracurriculars gave you energy rather than just good grades.
- Do you want to specialize in a subject or an industry? Grant writers, technical writers, and corporate communicators all benefit from combining English skills with knowledge of a specific field, whether that is healthcare, software, or nonprofit work.
- How much structure do you want? Teaching, corporate communications, and government roles offer predictable schedules and benefits. Freelance writing, literary agency work, and creative writing trade some of that stability for flexibility and variety.
- Are you open to further education? Some of the highest-paying paths, including law and academia, require graduate study. Others, like copywriting or content strategy, reward a strong portfolio over an advanced degree.
Informational interviews with people already working in a field you’re curious about often reveal more about day-to-day realities than a job description can. Ask what a typical week looks like, not only what the role pays.
Building a portfolio early, whether through internships, campus publications, freelance projects, or volunteer writing for a nonprofit, tends to matter more to employers than the exact title of your degree.
Part 5Further Education and Transferable Careers for People with an English Degree
Graduate Degrees And Advanced Study
English majors often pursue graduate studies to specialize in their field or transition to new career paths.
- Some choose Master’s programs in Literature, Rhetoric, or Creative Writing to deepen their expertise. A Creative Writing degree helps students develop their artistic voice while preparing them for careers in publishing, education, or professional writing.
- Others select law school, where their analytical skills and clear writing abilities give them an advantage. The LSAT preparation typically takes 3-6 months, with law school lasting 3 years.
- A Master’s in Library Science opens doors to information management roles with salaries ranging from $50,000-$75,000.
- Education degrees allow English majors to teach at higher levels. School administrators with English backgrounds earn $85,000-$105,000 annually.
A Master’s degree in English on its own, without a further specialization like library science or education, often leads to roles such as community college instructor, senior editor, communications director, or curriculum developer, with salaries generally ranging from $55,000-$85,000 depending on the role and region.
Therapy And Counseling
English graduates possess strong empathy and communication skills that transfer well to therapeutic professions.
- Mental health counseling requires a Master’s degree in Psychology or Counseling, taking 2-3 years to complete. Counselors earn $45,000-$70,000 annually, spending their days conducting one-on-one sessions, writing treatment plans, and maintaining client records.
- Art therapy combines creative expression with psychological principles. Certification requires a Master’s degree plus 1,000 supervised clinical hours. Art therapists typically earn $40,000-$80,000.
- Career counselors use their understanding of personal growth and development to guide others through professional transitions, earning $45,000-$65,000 while helping clients identify strengths and opportunities.
Frequently Asked Questions
What can you do with an English degree besides teach?
Teaching is a well-known path, but English graduates also work in publishing, copywriting, technical writing, marketing, corporate communications, grant writing, law, library science, and freelance consulting. The core skills of clear writing, careful reading, and persuasive argument transfer to almost any role that involves communication.
What are the highest-paying jobs for English majors?
Roles that combine English skills with specialization or leadership tend to pay the most, including lawyers, communications directors, marketing directors, technical writing managers, and content strategists at tech companies. Salaries in these roles often climb well past $90,000 once you gain several years of experience or an additional credential.
Is an English degree worth it?
Whether an English degree is worth it depends on your goals and how actively you build practical skills alongside your coursework. Graduates who pair their degree with internships, a writing portfolio, or a graduate credential in a field like law or library science tend to have an easier time translating their skills into a paycheck.
What is the difference between a BA and a BS in English?
A BA in English usually emphasizes literature, literary theory, and broad humanities study, while a BS in English, where offered, tends to focus more on technical or professional writing, rhetoric, or linguistics. Employers care less about which letters appear on your diploma and more about the coursework, writing samples, and experience you bring to an application.
What can you do with a master’s degree in English?
A master’s degree in English can qualify you to teach at the community college level, move into senior editorial or communications roles, or work in curriculum development. It is also a common stepping stone toward a PhD for those interested in becoming a university professor.
Do English majors need a graduate degree to work in publishing or media?
In most cases, no. Entry-level roles in publishing, journalism, and media typically hire candidates with a bachelor’s degree, relevant internship experience, and a strong writing portfolio. Graduate degrees become more relevant for specialized editorial roles, academic publishing, or library and information science positions.
Can English majors work in the tech industry?
Yes. Tech companies hire English graduates as technical writers, UX writers, content strategists, and documentation specialists. Familiarity with basic software concepts or a willingness to learn a company’s product helps, but the writing and organizational skills from an English degree are often the harder qualifications to find.
What skills do employers value most in English graduates?
Employers most often mention clear writing, careful editing, critical thinking, research skills, and the ability to explain complex ideas simply. Many also value the adaptability English graduates show when asked to write in a new format or tone, since coursework typically requires moving between essays, analysis, and creative work.
What jobs can you get with a bachelor’s in English without any experience?
Entry-level roles such as editorial assistant, content writer, communications coordinator, or teaching assistant typically hire recent graduates with little to no prior experience, especially if you can show writing samples from coursework, internships, or personal projects.