What can I do with a Degree in English?
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Introduction
Choosing a career involves more than just finding out what is open to you. Knowledge about yourself is central to the process. It is valuable to start by looking at your individual values, interests, and skills in order to relate career options to you. The suggestions here are only an aid to this decision-making process.
Most employers look for generic skills in writing and communication, interpersonal relations, customer service, and teamwork. Some of these are developed through your academic course work while others are developed through extra-curricular activity such as sports, community, or cultural groups.
As more and more employers are developing job titles that are particular to their own environment, it is more difficult to provide a definitive list of possible career options. The ones that follow should be considered to be illustrative rather than exhaustive.
Many professions require a four-year degree - think of Law or Engineering – and any three-year degree should be considered a foundation on which to build. You may find an employer willing to train you, but more often additional vocationally oriented courses (e.g. journalism added to a BA degree) will be required. For many Arts graduates, their first employment position is a 'stepping stone' job to gain experience, particularly as many long-term career options require substantial work experience before entry into the job or into a training course. Other Arts graduates may be aiming to progress within a particular organisation or industry by starting off in an administrative or sales position.
What skills are developed?
The study of English develops a range of skills and knowledge. These include the ability to read critically, to write persuasively, and to analyse complex textual and cultural phenomenon.
In addition to the subject-specific knowledge and technical skill you have gained through your course, you will also have developed transferable skills that can be used in many occupations. These may include: writing skills, public speaking skills developed through classroom presentations and debate; research skills; IT skills gained through research and writing; teamwork; problem-solving skills developed through the acquisition of analytical and critical methodologies; and time management skills.
Career options
While some graduates work directly in literature and language, for instance by teaching English or entering the publishing field, career possibilities are very diverse. The knowledge content specific to English courses is especially relevant to careers in broadcasting, the arts, public relations, diplomacy, teaching, journalism, library and information services.
Jobs most closely related to the study of English, either directly after graduating or after further training and work experience, include the following: Assistant Language Teacher, Actor, Copywriter, Communications Officer, Assistant Librarian, Secondary Teacher, Lecturer, CV Consultant, Information Officer, Book Buyer, Writer, Market Research Analyst, Media Production Assistant and Publishing Assistant.
Many other English graduates enter careers that seek students of any discipline, but which offer ample opportunity to use their highly developed verbal, written and analytic skills. Individuals with different interests have found employment in a variety of roles such as administrator, salesperson, customer services advisor, management trainee, bank officer, employment advisor, social services worker or immigration officer.
It is important to appreciate that career opportunities in some areas, and in some roles are dependent not only on applicants having certain skills and/or knowledge, but also on personal qualities and attributes such as interpersonal and leadership potential. Such qualities and attributes can have a significant influence on the entry level into a company or organisation, or career progression within it.
Types of employers
Local and central government, business/financial services, recruitment agencies, social service agencies, education institutions at all levels, library and information services, advertising, media, public relations, publishing, museums and retail and wholesale are all suitable sectors for English graduates.
Where have graduates been employed?
2006 & 2007 graduate destination information for different subject areas and qualification levels is available via the New Zealand Vice Chancellors Committee website.
NZUniGradStats (published in June 2008) contains information on destinations and other outcomes from the annual survey of all graduates from the New Zealand university system.
UC Careers & Employment has free copies of NZUniGradStats and the graduate destinations information by subject.
Further study
It is possible to study at post-graduate level in subjects both directly related and unrelated to your degree. Related courses of study include the Honours degree, and studies at Masters and PhD level. This additional study can influence the entry level of employment in industry. Carefully consider your motivation for study, how it fits in with your long-term career plans and whether it is likely to enhance your employment prospects.
Many Arts Graduates do additional training in, for example, Teaching, Library, Journalism or Management.
How can I find out more?
This should have started your thinking about your future. To follow this up and find out more information on jobs of interest, visit Career Services.
Other useful links
- Prospects
- My Future
- Graduate Careers Australia
- Florida State University Careers Center
- Rice University Career Services Centre
If you are an intending or current student at the University of Canterbury, or a recent graduate, UC Careers & Employment offers a wide range of services, including individual career guidance, seminars and resource information.