What can you do with an English degree?

Whether you’re graduating soon or mapping out your future, it’s totally normal to wonder how to translate your literary know-how into something that pays the bills. 

The good news? English majors are everywhere — in publishing houses, corporate boardrooms, marketing teams, media studios, nonprofits, and yes, sometimes still buried in books (professionally, of course).

This guide will walk you through careers for English majors, including unexpected paths you may not have considered and how to get started right now.

Before we dive into specific careers, let’s get this out of the way: Your skills are in high demand.

Employers across industries value the real-world skills you bring to the table, like the ability to:

• write and communicate clearly
• think critically and creatively
• break down complex ideas
• tell stories with impact
• pay close attention to detail

According to the National Association of Colleges and Employers (NACE), communication skills consistently rank among the most desired attributes in job candidates. If there's one thing English majors know, it’s how to communicate with impact.

Teaching is a popular path — and a great one — but it’s not the only option. Here are other careers where your English degree stands out:

1. Content strategist

Combine writing skills with big-picture thinking to plan and manage content across websites, blogs, emails and more.

Entry-level title to look for: Content marketing associate

2. Copywriter

Craft persuasive, engaging words you see on websites, in ads, on social media, and more.

Bonus: Copywriting is a high-paying role in demand across nearly every industry — from tech startups to fashion brands.

3. Public relations specialist

If you’re a strong communicator with a knack for storytelling and relationship-building, PR might be your jam.

Pro tip: Begin by exploring internships or entry-level roles at local agencies or nonprofits to get your foot in the door.

4. Technical writer

Love clarity and structure? Technical writers turn complex information into clear, user-friendly content like manuals and how-to guides.

Pro tip: Tech writing is one of the most reliable and high-paying paths for English majors, even if you’re just starting out.

5. Editor or editorial assistant

Whether it’s in book publishing, journalism, or digital media, editors help shape and polish content. 

Pro tip: Start building experience with an editorial internship or writing for campus publications.

6. Grant writer

Want to make an impact in the nonprofit world? Grant writers help secure funding through persuasive proposals, and English majors are natural fits.

7. Social media manager

Got a flair for crafting snappy captions and building an audience? This job blends writing, branding and creativity — perfect for communications-savvy grads.

Bonus: Many entry-level roles are freelance, contract or remote, allowing you to build your portfolio and have multiple clients at once.

Not sure which path is right for you? Schedule a session with a career coach at UC’s Bearcat Promise Career Studio to explore your options and build a personalized plan.

Just getting started? No worries! These roles can help you gain experience and confidence:

• Editorial or marketing internships
• Copywriting assistant roles
• Communications fellowships through nonprofit organizations
• Paid remote writing jobs. Check out platforms like Handshake and Upwork.  

Pro tip: Employers often care more about your writing samples and enthusiasm to learn more than your years of experience. Start building your portfolio now, even if it’s just classwork or personal projects.

Prefer flexibility? English majors thrive in remote and freelance roles like:

• Freelance blogging or copywriting, where you set your schedule while building a portfolio
• Remote content creation for startups or nonprofits
• Virtual assistant roles with a focus on writing, communications, or content management
• Online tutoring or editing services

These options are ideal if you want to build real-world experience, grow your portfolio, and earn income — all on your own schedule.

Your English degree is more versatile than you think. Here are some unexpected but rewarding career paths:

• Communications specialist: A great blend of writing, strategy and internal/external messaging.
• UX writer: Combine storytelling with design thinking to guide users through websites and apps.
• Marketing coordinator: Learn the ropes of campaign creation and analysis — no two days are the same.
• Legal assistant: Strong writers and detail-oriented thinkers make excellent support staff in law offices.
• Journalist: Chase stories, write with purpose, and inform the public — still a solid, impactful path.
• Librarian or archivist: Especially if you're considering graduate programs for English majors, a master's in library science can be your next step.
• Creative writer or novelist: Keep writing. Your big break might be closer than you think.

Absolutely — if you use it intentionally. The real key is figuring out how to apply what you've learned. Your English degree won’t limit you; it’ll launch you, if you frame your strengths in ways employers understand.

But to make it work for you, you might want to pair it with complementary skills like:

• Basic coding or HTML
• SEO and analytics
• Graphic design or Canva
• Video editing or podcasting

UC students get free access to LinkedIn Learning — a great place to build job-ready skills.

No need to wait until after graduation to start thinking like a professional. Here’s what you can do now:

• Get involved in campus media – Contribute to The News Record, The Cincinnati Review, Queen City Writers, Short Vine or other UC literary journals and small presses.
• Apply for English major internships — there are many opportunities for students right on campus.
• Volunteer to write for English-focused student orgs.
• Start building a portfolio site with writing samples, even if they’re from class.

Need help getting started? UC’s Bearcat Promise Career Studio offers resume support, career coaching, mock interviews, and so much more.

Considering getting your master’s? Grad school isn’t a must, but it can open doors, whether you want to teach, write creatively, or pivot into a new field. Popular paths include: 

• Master’s in English or literature – Ideal if you're interested in research, teaching or continuing academic study.
• MFA or doctorate in creative writing – Focus on craft, develop your voice, and work toward publishing your own work.
• Master’s in communication or journalism – Gain practical, industry-ready skills for media, marketing and beyond.
• Law school – English majors often excel on the LSAT thanks to strong reading and critical thinking skills.

Thinking about grad school to take your career further? Complete this graduate student checklist to ensure an easy transition into your next step. 

Your English degree isn’t just a major — it’s a foundation. It shows you can think critically, express ideas clearly, and adapt to any challenge.

Whether you want to write books, build brands, or work from anywhere, the skills are already in your hands to use them.

So the next time someone asks, “What can you do with an English degree?” You’ll know the answer:

Just about anything.

Explore UC’s undergraduate English programs and graduate English programs.