by our College Data Analytics TeamIf you love reading novels and writing you may want to choose a major in the field of English Language and Literature. This field of study involves reading significant works of fiction, as well as studying the history, structure, and use of language.
One of the most popular majors in this field is General English which focuses on the study of English language and literature as well as other subjects in the liberal arts. Students who love classic literature may want to major in Literature, while those who are more interested in writing can choose Writing Studies. Some colleges offer additional opportunities to choose concentrations.
Classes may differ depending on your major, but you can expect to be discussing ideas, reading literary criticisms, and be writing creative and analytical papers. While performing these activities, you will be taking courses in continental literature, history of English, linguistic analysis, creative writing, literary theory and criticism.
In 2020-2021, English language and literature was the 18th most popular major nationwide with 54,635 degrees awarded. This represents a 4.1% reduction in English language and literature degrees awarded over the prior year's total of 56,860.
This year's Best English Language & Literature Schools ranking compares 534 of them to identify the best overall programs in the country. Continue reading to check out one of our many unbiased rankings of English language and literature programs later in this article.
Strong reading and writing skills are recommended in this field. You must be able to express your ideas and analysis efficiently in your written work and class participation, so work on both oral and written communication. Attention to detail and creativity are important talents because you will be making connections and comparisons.
If you are interested in pursuing a degree in English Language and Literature, students are advised to take prior courses in creative writing, literature, English language, and speech. Some student choose to continue their education with a Master's degree in this field.
New students will need to have completed high school or a GED program and each school will have their own minimum GPA and SAT/ACT test requirements. Specific English language and literature careers may require a certain level of degree attainment or additional certifications beyond that.
There are various different levels of English language and literature degrees. You can spend many years getting as high as a in English language and literature to something that takes less time like a . The type of English language and literature degree you choose will determine how long it takes to get your diploma.
| Degree | Credit Requirements | Typical Program Length |
|---|---|---|
| Associate Degree | 60-70 credits | 2 years |
| Bachelor’s Degree | 120 credits | 4 years |
| Master’s Degree | 50-70 credits | 1-3 years |
| Doctorate | Program required coursework including thesis or dissertation | At least 4 years |
A bachelor's degree is the most common level of education achieved by those in careers related to English language and literature, with approximately 47.3% of workers getting one. Find out other typical degree levels for English language and literature workers below.
| Level of Education | Percentage of Workers |
|---|---|
| Bachelor’s Degree | 45.2% |
| Master’s Degree | 15.4% |
| Doctoral Degree | 13.4% |
| Associate’s Degree (or other 2-year degree) | 6.5% |
| Some College Courses | 6.0% |
Most workers in English language and literature have at least a bachelor's degree. The chart below shows what degree level those who work in English language and literature have obtained.
This of course varies depending on which English language and literature career you choose.
This is a broad field of study that can lead to many different career paths. Many graduates are interested in education and go on to become a secondary or postsecondary teacher. Some states require a Master's degree to teach.
Grads who love to write may become copy editors, copywriters, editors, technical writers, authors, marketers or public relations specialists. Copywriters write ads and articles to attract consumers to buy products and services. Public relations specialists help promote organizations and individuals. Technical writers construct manuals and instructions for consumers and businesses related, related to science and technology.
Interested in additional education? Some graduates use a background in English as a stepping stone to an advanced degree. Students may go on to obtain Master's degrees in English, law, political science or other related subjects.
Want a job when you graduate with your English language and literature degree? English Language & Literature careers are expected to grow 7.3% between 2016 and 2026.
The following options are some of the most in-demand careers related to English language and literature.
| Occupation Name | Projected Jobs | Expected Growth |
|---|---|---|
| High School Teachers | 1,095,500 | 7.5% |
| Professors | 258,700 | 9.4% |
| Writers and Authors | 141,200 | 7.6% |
| Editors | 125,600 | -1.4% |
| English Language and Literature Professors | 92,900 | 9.8% |
English Language & Literature graduates between 2017-2019 reported earning an average of $30,316 in the 2019-2020 timeframe. Earnings can range from as low as $11,775 to as high as $80,433. As you might expect, salaries for English language and literature graduates vary depending on the level of education that was acquired.
Salaries for English language and literature graduates can vary widely by the occupation you choose as well. The following table shows the top highest paying careers English language and literature grads often go into.
| Occupation Name | Median Average Salary |
|---|---|
| English Language and Literature Professors | $78,150 |
| Professors | $76,990 |
| Technical Writers | $75,500 |
| Writers and Authors | $73,090 |
| Editors | $69,480 |
With over 4,420 different English language and literature degree programs to choose from, finding the best fit for you can be a challenge. Fortunately you have come to the right place. We have analyzed all of these schools to come up with hundreds of unbiased English language and literature school rankings to help you with this.
| Major | Annual Graduates |
|---|---|
| General English Literature | 40,481 |
| Writing Studies | 12,529 |
| English Literature (Other) | 942 |
| Literature | 683 |
| Related Major | Annual Graduates |
|---|---|
| Liberal Arts / Sciences & Humanities | 556,813 |
| Visual & Performing Arts | 149,215 |
| Foreign Languages & Linguistics | 33,333 |
| Theology & Religious Vocations | 27,459 |
| Philosophy & Religious Studies | 19,993 |
Image Credit: By Mike Hazard under License More about our data sources and methodologies.
