Graduating with a degree in English opens the door to a wide range of dynamic, fulfilling careers. Employers value English majors' strong communication, critical thinking, and analytical skills—making them a perfect fit across many industries. Whether you're drawn to creative writing, media, education, law, or marketing, there are countless jobs you can get with an English degree.
Ready to explore the top careers for English degree holders? Here are some of the best jobs for English majors:
Copywriter.
If you have a way with words and love crafting compelling messages, becoming a copywriter is an ideal path. Copywriters create persuasive content for advertising campaigns, websites, email marketing, product descriptions, and more. Strong grammar, a sharp voice, and the ability to tailor messages to different audiences make English majors a natural fit.
Journalist.
A career in journalism is a classic choice for English majors. Whether you're interested in print, broadcast, or digital media, journalism careers offer opportunities to write, investigate, and tell meaningful stories. Strong writing, research, and critical analysis are key assets in this field. Start by interning at a local publication or media outlet. Build a niche in areas like politics, culture, travel, or environmental reporting to stand out.
Public Relations Specialist.
As a PR professional, you'll use your communication skills to shape public perception and manage a brand’s image. This includes writing press releases, crafting speeches, and working with the media. English majors excel here thanks to their ability to write clearly and persuasively.
Marketing Executive.
Marketing is a creative and data-driven industry that depends on high-quality written content. As a marketing specialist, you could write blog posts, manage social media, and contribute to brand messaging strategies. English majors are valued for their ability to craft engaging content that drives traffic and converts leads.
Screenwriter or Script Editor.
If you’re passionate about storytelling and media, consider a career in screenwriting. English majors can leverage their storytelling skills to write scripts for film, television, or web series. This industry is competitive, but internships and networking are key to breaking in.
Legal Assistant.
Law is a rigorous, intellectually demanding field that values clarity, argumentation, and persuasive writing—all hallmarks of an English education. Whether you're planning to become a legal assistant or continue to law school, your degree prepares you for legal research, case analysis, and effective communication. Getting into law can be difficult, which is why we recommend enhancing your resume with an international law internship to showcase global awareness, initiative, and experience to help you stand out when applying for your first roles in the legal sector.
Grant Writer for Nonprofits.
Nonprofit organizations rely on persuasive writing to secure funding and communicate their mission. As a grant writer, you’ll craft compelling proposals, fundraising letters, and donor communications. English majors thrive in this field thanks to their ability to tell impactful stories and write with precision.
Translator.
If you’re bilingual or studied English as a second language, translation is a rewarding and in-demand career. As a translator, you’ll help bridge communication gaps across languages, working on everything from books and websites to legal documents. Pair English with Mandarin, Spanish, or Arabic for maximum career opportunities. This role is also a great option for remote or international work.
English Teacher.
Teaching English, whether at home or abroad, is one of the most accessible and rewarding career options for English majors. Whether you teach literature, composition, ESL, or creative writing, this career allows you to inspire others while applying your knowledge daily. Consider getting a TEFL certification or a teaching qualification to expand your job opportunities internationally or in public schools.
Librarian.
If you love books, research, and information management, becoming a librarian might be the perfect fit. Librarians assist with research, curate collections, and teach information literacy—skills that align beautifully with an English degree. Many roles require a Master’s in Library Science, but entry-level jobs are available in academic, public, and special libraries.
Proofreader or Editor.
Proofreading and editing are essential in any industry that produces written content. English majors, with their attention to detail and grammar skills, are ideal candidates for these roles. Whether you’re reviewing manuscripts, marketing materials, or academic papers, this job ensures that written content is polished and professional.
English majors develop a versatile set of skills that can be applied across industries. With the right internships, international experience, and a focus on practical application, you’ll find that an English degree can lead to many exciting and high-paying careers.
