So, you’ve graduated (or are about to) with an English degree, and you’re probably thinking about what to do next. You spent all those years in college, countless nights editing papers, and reading literature, but now you’re wondering how to turn all that hard work into a career you love.

Don’t worry – your degree is more versatile than you think and can open so many possibilities for you. With your strong communication skills, creative thinking, and deep understanding of language, you’re ready for job roles that go far beyond writing essays or analyzing literature.

In this blog post, we list 15 exciting job options you might not have thought of yet that actually require the skills you’ve learned while getting your degree. And, spoiler alert: they’re way more than just teaching or writing novels!

1. Copywriter – $73,690

Copywriters create persuasive written content for companies, focusing on marketing and sales across various platforms such as websites, advertisements, and social media. They conduct research to produce engaging pieces, aiming to influence readers and encourage specific actions, such as making a purchase.

An English degree can be beneficial for aspiring copywriters, as it provides the writing skills and creativity needed to succeed in diverse industries like advertising, marketing, tech, and finance. And, a bonus tip: copywriters are some of the most in-demand professionals right now!

2. Social Media Manager – $54,754

Social media managers and specialists enhance brand awareness and engage customers through online marketing strategies, creating content that builds relationships and reputation while using creativity, communication skills, and analytical tools to measure campaign effectiveness.

An English major is a great fit for these roles because of their strong writing, critical thinking, and storytelling skills. They can create engaging posts, analyze audience engagement, and help build connections with the community, all while strengthening the brand’s identity.

3. Public Relations Manager – $130,480

Public relations (PR) managers enhance their clients’ public image and brand awareness by managing communication with customers, investors, and media outlets through press releases and social media content. They monitor the effectiveness of communication strategies and build positive relationships with media representatives to promote a favorable brand image.

Similar to social media managers, English majors are a great fit for PR manager roles due to their strong writing skills, ability to analyze audience behavior, and storytelling expertise, which help effectively communicate a brand’s message.

4. Literary Agent – $84,900

Literary agents work with authors to help them get their books published, serving as the bridge between writers and publishers. They review manuscripts, provide feedback, negotiate contracts, and pitch authors’ work to publishing houses.

English majors’ love for literature and a keen eye for detail would make them perfect advocates for authors navigating the publishing world, making them a natural fit for this role.

5. UX Writer – $126,722

UX writers play a key role in shaping the user experience by creating clear, concise, and engaging content for websites, apps, and digital products. They focus on guiding users through an interface with intuitive instructions, error messages, button labels, and more, ensuring the user journey is smooth and enjoyable.

English majors are a great fit for this role because of their strong ability to simplify complex ideas. They can communicate clearly and empathize with users, allowing them to craft content that enhances the overall user experience.

6. Paralegal – $60,970

Paralegals assist lawyers by organizing files, researching laws, and preparing documents to ensure everything is ready for trials and meetings. They gather evidence, draft contracts, and coordinate court logistics.

English majors are well-suited for paralegal roles due to their strong research, writing, and critical thinking skills. Their attention to detail and ability to analyze complex information make them excellent at drafting clear legal documents and assisting in case preparations.

7. Journalist – $61,227

Journalists play a vital role in informing the public by researching topics, interviewing eyewitnesses and experts, and writing articles or presenting news on various media platforms. They may specialize in specific areas like politics or sports, while their duties include analyzing information, developing relationships with sources, and ensuring the accuracy of their reporting. 

With the rise of multimedia journalism, they often produce content across multiple platforms and may also maintain a social media presence to engage with their audience, upon which English majors could be a perfect fit.

8. Technical Writer – $80,000

Technical writers specialize in creating instructional materials and documents that simplify complex technical subjects for both expert and non-expert audiences, often covering fields such as technology, science, and engineering. 

Their work involves conducting thorough research, collaborating with industry professionals, and using effective communication skills to produce user-friendly documents like user manuals and guides – which is easy peasy for English majors.

9. Editor – $78,473

Editors are responsible for reviewing, revising, and maintaining the quality of written materials across various fields, including publishing, journalism, and marketing. Their tasks include proofreading for grammar and accuracy, collaborating with writers to improve content, and ensuring adherence to editorial guidelines and deadlines. 

10. Librarian – $59,999

Librarians are professionals responsible for managing collections of books, recordings, and other media in various settings, including public libraries, universities, and museums. They organize and catalog materials, assist patrons in finding information, and advocate for literacy programs, often requiring advanced degrees in library science.

English majors are a natural fit for librarian roles due to their love for literature, research skills, and ability to organize information. Their passion for learning and strong communication skills make them excellent at helping others discover new knowledge and resources.

11. SEO Specialist – $62,650

SEO specialists optimize website content to improve search engine rankings, using keywords and data to attract more traffic. They create and adjust content strategies to ensure visibility and engagement.

English majors are perfect as SEO specialists because of their ability to write clear content while keeping SEO best practices in mind. Their strong research and analytical skills help them stay on top of trends and improve search performance.

12. Content Marketing Manager – $95,000

Content marketing managers develop strategies to create and distribute valuable, relevant content to attract and engage a target audience. They oversee the creation of blog posts, social media content, and videos that drive brand awareness.

English majors can excel in this role because of their strong writing and storytelling abilities. Their analytical skills help them create content that resonates with audiences while achieving business goals.

13. Corporate Communications Specialist – $80,320

Corporate communications specialists oversee internal and external communication efforts, including press releases, newsletters, and company announcements. They ensure consistent messaging and alignment with the company’s brand.

English majors thrive in this role because of their strong writing and editing skills. Their ability to adjust tone and style for different audiences makes them key in maintaining clear and effective communication.

14. Training and Development Manager – $125,040 

Training and development specialists design and implement training programs to help employees improve their skills and knowledge. They create instructional materials, deliver training sessions, and evaluate program effectiveness.

English majors are well-suited for this role because of their ability to communicate complex ideas engagingly and understandably. Their strong writing and presentation skills help them develop clear training materials and deliver effective programs.

15. Speechwriter – $121,858

Speechwriters create speeches for public figures, executives, or politicians, ensuring the message resonates with the target audience. They focus on tone, language, and persuasion to craft impactful speeches. English majors excel as speechwriters because of their talent for persuasive writing and understanding of audience needs.

Conclusion: An English degree is more versatile than you think it is!

The versatility of an English degree is often underestimated, but the truth is, that it can take you far beyond traditional paths, opening up exciting opportunities in fields you may never have considered.

Beyond the careers listed, teaching abroad is another rewarding option, especially in countries where English isn’t the primary language.

Your English degree is a toolkit. It has given you the writing, analysis, and creative skills to excel in a wide range of industries — your next step is just deciding which path excites you the most.

Now, it’s up to you to explore your options, trust your skills, and start building the career you’ve always dreamed of.

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