English majors study the literature and language of the English-speaking
world. This can include writers from all eras and many styles of writing.
Courses may concentrate on individual authors, authors from one region, different
genres, language or linguistics, creative writing, or theory.
English is one of the broadest majors you can sign up for. It can lead
to work in a wide range of employment fields, including publishing, education,
government, marketing, business, research and entertainment.
Like other liberal arts degrees, it is well suited to careers do not require
a particular major, but rather a diverse set of demonstrated skills and achievements.
"Communication is at the heart of all English studies -- whether students
are reading a novel, a poem, or studying the technical 'language' of film,
or exploring how the latest interactive technologies, such as blog sites,
are changing our uses of language," says Tracy Daugherty. He is a professor
and the chair of the English department at Oregon State University.
"English is a diverse and constantly changing field, as language and communication
are dynamic and culturally sensitive."
English is available as a major in programs at all levels. From a community
college diploma to a PhD, it is not difficult to find an English program in
a post-secondary institution. Some programs even offer internships for students
to gain practical experience.
But just because it's widely applicable doesn't mean that it's well-suited
for everyone.
"It is the kind of thing that you should not study unless you find the
subject matter interesting. You also should be good with words, logical in
your thinking, and eager to talk about literature and language," says Cameron
Louis. He is a professor and head of a university English department.
Daugherty says that English is a great choice for "students interested
in critical thinking and in analyzing communication in any number of fields."
Because of their flexibility in terms of career placements, English majors
sometimes get a bad rap. Some say that an English degree does not prepare
students well for a specific job. But those involved in English education
say that students are prepared for a variety of career options.
Louis says that recent graduates' feedback about his university's English
program indicates that: "Some have ended up as professional writers, and others
have gone on to careers in law or business, and especially teaching at all
levels -- elementary, secondary, post-secondary."
Some well-known people with English major bachelor's degrees include novelist
Stephen King, humorist Dave Barry, actress Jodie Foster and CEO-level businessman
Michael Eisner. There are also people in the legal profession, many journalists
and politicians, and even an astronaut!
English majors develop cultural knowledge, imagination and strong writing
abilities, which are useful for futures in many fields. They may even become
more sought after in the age of text messaging shorthand and rapid-fire e-mail
exchanges, when fewer people have the skills for thoughtful and well-crafted
text interpretation, writing and communication.
"English is a good basic degree for preparing for advanced studies in almost
any field," says Daugherty. He adds that by 2011 the opportunities for teachers
at both the high school and college levels will improve. "For those majoring
in English as pre-law or pre-med, the market is steadily good."
In high school, remember that reading and writing remain at the heart of
English studies. Literature and advanced writing classes are useful for assessing
your interest in the field of study and for college applications.
Louis adds that acting in plays or joining the debate team would also be
a great way to prepare.
"History classes are also useful for a person wishing to major in English,
to get a sense of cultural shifts that affect literary production. Journalism,
work on the yearbook, any creative writing clubs or reading groups that are
available would be good extracurricular activities," says Daugherty.
In college, students can expect to spend extra on literature and textbooks.
Although the prices of texts go up each year, English remains one of the least
expensive majors.
"The books cost, but there aren't any lab fees or other hidden costs. And
if a student doesn't own a computer or a printer, most campuses give students
access to computer facilities in their libraries, so that can save some money,"
says Daugherty.
Links
Occupational Outlook Handbook
For more information related to this field of study, see: Writers
and Editors
What Can I do With a Degree in English?
A general resource site
Kids Online Learning Resources
Language arts links
Grammar Slammer
Brush up on writing skills