Student Resources 
English Majors Why Major in English
Why Major In English?
One misconception about being "an English major" is that it will lead to a career teaching grammar and Shakespeare - and not much else. The reality, however, is that majoring in English not only strengthens skill in writing, fosters ability in critical analysis, and provides a sound foundation in expression through language, it also opens the doorway to a broad range of career choices, including technical and creative writing, law, publishing, business, communications, and the media.
Listed below are fifty career options that majoring in English could open up, and the list is not exhaustive. For more possibilities, including specific aspects of each job, check out the excellent University of Texas link, "What Can I Do With a Major in English?".
Also, check this out: English Major = World Traveler
Academic Advisor/Career Counselor |
Librarian |
Advertising Copywriter |
Librarian Assistant |
Advertising Media Writer |
Linguist |
Author |
Literary Agent |
College Admissions Officer |
Lobbyist |
Computer Instructional Designer/Writer |
Market Researcher |
Computer Communications Specialist |
Media: Reporter |
Continuity Writer |
Novelist |
Copy Editor |
Paralegal Writer |
Copywriter: Television, Newspaper, Radio |
Playwright |
Corporate Communications Specialist |
Poet |
Creative Writer |
Policy Analyst |
Editor |
Political Campaigner |
Editorial Assistant |
Political Writer |
English Professor |
Public Affairs Correspondent |
Environmental Communication Specialist |
Public Relations Writer |
Film Production Assistant |
Publisher |
Film Researcher |
Publishing Representative |
Foreign Correspondent |
Research Assistant |
Foreign Service Officer |
Screenwriter |
Freelance Writer |
Speech Writer |
Intelligence Officer |
Teacher (Elementary, Secondary) |
Journalist |
Technical/Business Writer/Editor |
Judicial Clerk |
Textbook Writer/Editor |
Lawyer |
Writer |
If you think that English might be the career major option for you - or perhaps your interest is a minor in English - come by the English Department Office and set up a meeting with one of our faculty, or call (361) 6981234.
LINKS OF INTEREST
What is an English Major? From the Online Education Guide
"What Can I Do With a Major in English?" University of Texas