What does an English major cover?
Think of the English major as a toolkit for understanding language, power, and identity. You’ll read everything from poetry and plays to modern memoirs and media. More than that, you’ll learn how to analyze, write, debate, and create.
Common English major courses and tracks
Depending on your school, you’ll be able to choose from a range of classes and focus areas. A few common ones include:
- Literature and literary theory
- Creative writing
- Cultural and media studies
- Professional and technical writing
- Linguistics and language history
Many schools offer concentrations or tracks, such as:
- Creative writing – For future novelists, poets, screenwriters
- Literary studies – For readers who want to go deep
- Rhetoric and composition – Focused on writing, research, and real-world communication
- English education – Perfect for future teachers.
What skills will I gain from an English degree?
You’ll walk away with way more than just trivia about Shakespeare. English majors build:
- Strong writing and editing skills
- Advanced research and analytical thinking
- Verbal communication and presentation skills
- Cross-cultural literacy and empathy
- The ability to synthesize big ideas and think critically
Who should major in English?
If you’re drawn to creativity, communication, and thinking deeply about the world, the English major might be a great fit. It’s especially great for:
- Storytellers and writers
- Deep thinkers and detail-lovers
- Students interested in how culture and language shape identity
- People who want flexible, human-centered careers
Popular double majors and minors
Because English is so versatile, it pairs well with just about anything. Some popular combos include:
- English + Psychology – Great for storytelling or counseling careers
- English + Political Science – Strong fit for law or policy work
- English + Communications or Media Studies – For marketing or PR paths
- English + Business – Adds creative edge to a corporate future
- English + Education – For future teachers, naturally
Top careers for English majors
You don’t have to be an author (but you can be). English grads go into tons of fields, like:
- Publishing and editing
- Marketing, PR, and advertising
- Journalism and media
- Law and legal research
- Teaching and academia
- Content strategy and UX writing
- Corporate communications
- Nonprofit and advocacy work
English majors thrive across industries
Because English majors are trained to think critically, communicate clearly, and empathize with others, they’re in demand across industries—even in places you might not expect.
Graduates find success in:
- Tech: As UX writers, content strategists, and researchers
- Healthcare: In patient education or communications
- Business and finance: In marketing, copywriting, and branding
- Education and nonprofits: Helping people and telling their stories
Notable schools for English majors
How can I pay for my English degree?
There’s no need to be a starving artist. Scholarships are out there—and Sallie makes them easier to find. You can start by checking out scholarships for English majors, and don’t miss the chance to apply for the $2,000 No Essay Scholarship.
Tools like Scholly Scholarships can help you uncover even more opportunities tailored to you. If you're still exploring your path, browse scholarships by major or jumpstart your college search with Scout College Search.
Final thoughts: The English major is more than a degree
It’s a launchpad. Whether you want to write a novel, shape culture, advocate for others, or break into a competitive industry—this major gives you the tools. You’ll graduate with the kind of flexible, future-ready skills that employers across the board are looking for.
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