Are you passionate about literature, writing, and creative expression? Do you find yourself analyzing complex texts, crafting compelling narratives, and exploring the power of language? If so, pursuing a Bachelor of Arts in English at PLNU could be your pathway to a dynamic, fulfilling career.
Let’s explore the myriad career paths one can take with an English degree, as well as potential degree concentrations that fit your goals and passions.
Why pursue a Bachelor's Degree in English?
Secret’s out. An English degree provides far more than just an appreciation for literature — it develops critical thinking, analytical, and communication skills that are highly valued across industries.
According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, many English-related professions show promising growth potential and competitive salaries.
The data reveals strong growth projections for postsecondary teachers (8% growth) and management positions (6% growth) through 2033.
Notably, many English graduates advance to leadership positions, with significant percentages holding advanced degrees—92% of lawyers, 72% of postsecondary teachers, and 59% of librarians and media collections specialists have advanced degrees. These metrics demonstrate an English degree's potential as a foundation for further academic and professional development.
For those interested in education, both elementary and secondary teaching positions show stable employment prospects, with 49-56% of teachers holding advanced degrees in their field.
This data clearly shows that an English degree can serve as a stepping stone to various career paths, particularly when combined with advanced education.
What can you learn through earning an English degree?
As noted by Indeed, English majors develop expertise in:
- History and analysis of literature
- Creative and professional writing
- Rhetoric and composition
- Critical analysis and research methods
- Technical writing and documentation
- Publishing industry knowledge
What Can You Do with an English Degree?
At PLNU, our English program offers three distinct concentrations — all of which open direct pathways to teaching credentials in California while preserving multiple career options.
Our three distinct concentrations include:
Education
PLNU’s Education concentration prepares you to become a teacher of English. In this concentration, you’ll receive an introduction to creative writing and writing pedagogy to supplement your linguistics and literary study.
Literature
PLNU’s Literature concentration is perfect for students interested in understanding and analyzing texts from various forms and perspectives. In this concentration, you’ll gain interpretive, analytical, critical thinking, and close reading skills as you delve into the world of literature, literary theory, literary analysis, rhetoric, and writing. These skills equip students for careers in:
- Law
- College teaching
- Church
- Non-governmental organizations (NGOs)
- Business
Writing
PLNU’s Writing concentration is perfect for students interested in creative writing, editing, and engaging with various texts, genres, and perspectives. You’ll learn the fundamental components of fiction, poetry, nonfiction, journalism, and professional writing from experienced published faculty.
You will also be able to develop your own writing projects in your genre(s) of interest and learn to engage with the larger writing community as you sharpen your writing skills.
What Careers Can You Pursue with an English Degree?
There is a variety of careers for English that range across many rewarding fields:
Publishing
- Editor (Median salary: $75,020 per year)
- Technical Writer (Median salary: $80,050)
- Writer or Author (Median salary: $73,690)
Education and Academia
- Postsecondary School Teacher (Median salary: $84,380)
- English Language and Literature University Professor (Median salary: $78,130)
- Librarians and Library Media Specialist (Median salary: $64,370)
- Instructional Coordinator (Median salary: $74,620)
Business and Marketing
- Advertising, Promotions, or Marketing Manager (Median salary: $156,580)
- Public Relations Specialist (Median salary: $66,750)
- Management Analyst (Median salary: $99,410)
- Social Media Strategist (Median salary: $56,770)
Cultural and Nonprofit Sector
- Archivists, Curators, or Museum Worker (Median salary: $57,120)
- Literary Critic
- Cultural Program Coordinator
- Public Relations and Fundraising Managers (Median salary: $130,480)
Government and Law
- Court Reporter (Median salary: $63,940)
- Grant Writer ($20 to $100 an hour, depending on experience)
- Technical Writer (Median salary: $80,050)
______
Who are you called to be?
Pursue your purpose at PLNU.
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Is an English Degree Worth It?
Short answer: yes. In today's digital age, clear communication and content creation are more important than ever. Even with the rise of language learning models (LLMs) and other artificial intelligence, there is a sustained need for knowledgeable, experienced writers and communicators in virtually all fields.
According to U.S. News & World Report — and as we’ve mentioned — English majors work in fields like journalism, public relations, fundraising, and entertainment, bringing strong writing and analytical abilities to diverse professional contexts.
Keep reading for skills you’ll gain in this field of study.
Top Skills You’ll Gain with an English Degree
Majoring in English helps students develop crucial skills that employers actively seek, including:
- Advanced writing and editing capabilities
- Critical analysis and interpretation
- Research and documentation expertise
- Cross-cultural communication
- Digital content creation
- Public speaking and presentation skills
Pursue Your English Degree with PLNU
PLNU's English program is like no other. We provide comprehensive preparation through:
- Experienced faculty who are published writers and respected scholars
- Opportunities to participate in campus publications like Driftwood and The Point
- Access to the Loma Writing Center for hands-on experience
- Independent honors projects for qualified students
- Mentorship from faculty who have received national grants and recognition
Our program also offers unique opportunities like the Writer’s Symposium by the Sea, an exciting annual event that has hosted renowned authors like Alice Walker, Ray Bradbury, and Amy Tan, among others.
Ready to begin your journey toward a rewarding career with an English degree? Learn more about PLNU’s Department of Literature, Journalism, Writing and Languages, or apply now to take the first step toward your future in professional communication, creative expression, or education.
Interested in learning more? Check out our article, “How Can I Become a Writing Professor?”
