If 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.
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English Language & Literature Degrees in the United States
#18Most Popular Major
52.7kDegrees Awarded
239Schools Offering Degrees
In 2021-2022, english language & literature was the 18th most popular major nationwide with 52,704 degrees awarded.
This year's Best English Language & Literature Schools ranking compares 489 of them to identify the best overall programs in the country. Explore this or one of our many other custom english language & literature rankings further below.
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English Language & Literature Degree Requirements
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.
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English Language & Literature Degree Program Entry Requirements
A high school diploma or equivalent is typically required for most english language & literature degree programs and many students will need a minimum GPA and SAT/ACT score depending on the school. Specific english language & literature careers may require a certain level of degree attainment or additional certifications beyond that.
Types of English Language & Literature Degrees
There are many different english language & literature degree levels. English Language & Literature programs offered by schools range from a to a , which is the highest english language & literature degree you can get. The time it takes to complete a english language & literature degree varies depending on the program.
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 & literature, with approximately 47.3% of workers getting one. Find out other typical degree levels for english language & 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%
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Most workers in english language & literature have at least a bachelor's degree. View the chart below to get an idea of what degree level most of those in english language & literature careers have.
The education level required is different depending on the english language & literature career you are seeking.
Career Opportunities for A Degree In English Language & Literature Graduate
Above AverageNumber of Jobs
$31.4kAverage Starting Salary
7% GrowthJob Outlook 2016-26
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.
Growth Projected for English Language & Literature Careers
Want a job when you graduate with your english language & 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 & 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%
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How Much Money Do English Language & Literature Grads Make?
English Language & Literature graduates between <nil> reported earning an average of $31,367 in the <nil> timeframe. Earnings can range from as low as $7,780 to as high as $82,205. As you might expect, salaries for english language & literature graduates vary depending on the level of education that was acquired.
Highest Paid English Language & Literature Careers
Salaries for english language & literature graduates can vary widely by the occupation you choose as well. The following table shows the top highest paying careers english language & 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
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Getting Your English Language & Literature Degree
With over 4,484 different english language & 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 & literature school rankings to help you with this.
Top Ranking Lists for English Language & Literature
by our College Data Analytics Team
