English is a common degree choice for many students, as it is a subject that allows them the freedom of expressing their thoughts and conveying them effectively.

The skill of communicating ideas and concepts – by mouth or on paper, is quite a desired one for many employers. English is a subject that gifts you with many qualities that can be widely applied to several job sectors.

For example, studying English at degree level develops your ability to understand abstract concepts, analyse text, plan, research effectively and recognise nuances in language. These all can be used in a variety of careers, because as you can imagine language and words are very important for employers. After all, almost every job has paperwork, or some sort of formal writing concerned with it. Graduates with English degrees go on to jobs that these skills are relevant in.

WHY A CAREER IN ENGLISH?

Graduates who pursue career paths in English are notably interested in language, different types of literature and most often, writing. Many of the jobs they decide to do are related to their subject at least on a small level. English gives you more than just writing skills however, it allows you the chance to think critically with both logic and open mindedness, which is great for those looking to progress to careers such as law or politics as many English graduates do.

An important fact to remember about employers when looking for a job is that one of the characteristics, they value the most is being able to communicate effectively. This was briefly mentioned earlier, but there really are significant amounts of data showing that employees that do have this skill – mostly derived from a career in English – are hired and given promotions more often.

WHAT KINDS OF JOBS CAN I DO WITH AN ENGLISH DEGREE?

There are almost limitless possibilities on what career you can do with an English degree, as so many of them involve learning on the job and receiving training, but the jobs most directly related to this career path that people may pursue are:

• Editorial Assistant
• Journalist
• Digital Copywriter
• Marketing Executive
• Archivist
• Academics
• Education Consultant
• Librarian
• Public Relations Worker
• Social Media Manager

However, remember that your options are not limited to these, there are hundreds of careers to choose from out there. These are only the most common and popular, that are worth looking into first. Regardless of the career path that suits you, a degree in English will equip you with the essential skills that every employer really wants in its employees, and you’ll know that you’re in a good position for your future.