18 tips for English majors who are mapping their careers

Career mapping is the process of strategically planning your professional journey by identifying potential career paths, the skills you’ll need, and the steps to achieve your long-term goals. For English majors, career mapping is especially important because the degree offers a wide range of opportunities in writing, education, media, business, and beyond. Without a clear plan, it can be challenging to connect your love of language and literature to specific career paths.

With an English degree, you might start in roles like content writer, editor, marketing coordinator, or public relations specialist. If you’re interested in education, teaching at the high school level or pursuing a graduate degree for college-level instruction are great options. English majors also excel in fields like journalism, publishing, advertising, technical writing, and corporate communications. For those drawn to storytelling and creativity, careers in screenwriting, copywriting, or even game narrative design are possibilities. English degrees also provide a strong foundation for law school, library science, or graduate programs in literature or creative writing. Career mapping helps you figure out which paths align with your interests, what additional skills—like SEO, graphic design, or grant writing—you might need, and how to gain the right experience to succeed. It’s not just about reading and writing—it’s about crafting a career that tells your own story.

• Help Students Write Standout Personal Statements
• Work as a Library or Research Assistant
• Edit for the School Newspaper
• Become a Technical Writer
• Be a Communications Coordinator for a Non-Profit
• Intern as a Speechwriter
• Start a Career in Content Writing
• Try Ghostwriting for Executives and Leaders
• Teach ESL Online
• Scout for Literary and Film Opportunities
• Align Jobs with Your Interests and Skills
• Pursue a Career in Content Marketing
• Assist Authors as a Research Assistant
• Apply for a Transcriptionist Job
• Edit Technical or Research-Based Content
• Work as an Editorial Assistant
• Tutor Writing at the Campus Writing Center
• Explore Digital Marketing Opportunities

Help Students Write Standout Personal Statements

Helping students write standout personal statements for university applications is one of the best jobs for an English major. Some of our best tutors have told me how rewarding it feels to help a student craft a story that truly reflects their potential. One tutor shared how a student struggling with self-doubt transformed their statement and their confidence after just a few sessions. They later got into their dream university. 

With admissions more competitive than ever, a strong personal statement can make all the difference. Guiding someone through that process isn’t just a job; it sharpens storytelling, persuasion, and mentoring skills. Those same skills open doors in publishing, marketing, and communications. Plus, nothing beats the moment when a student messages you, saying, “I got in!”

Tornike Asatiani, CEO, Edumentors

Work as a Library or Research Assistant

I believe that working as a library or research assistant is one of the best jobs for an English major in college. This is because it builds strong research, organization, and analytical skills, all essential for careers in writing, publishing, academia, and beyond. In this role, you’re constantly handling books, organizing resources, and digging into research projects, which improves your ability to find and analyze information efficiently.

One of the biggest advantages is that you get to work in a quiet, academic environment while gaining valuable experience in handling databases, citations, and scholarly sources. If you’re thinking about a career in publishing, journalism, or even law, these skills will give you an edge. Plus, you’ll be surrounded by books and ideas every day, which is perfect for an English major who loves reading and learning.

Another bonus is that many library jobs are on campus, making them convenient and flexible for students. My advice is to use this job to network with professors and researchers as it can open doors to internships, graduate programs, or even writing opportunities.

Joanna Brown, Founder & CEO, The Reading Guru

Edit for the School Newspaper

I think one of the best jobs for an English major is working as an editor for the school newspaper. While earning my bachelor’s degree, I was an editor for a school-sponsored newspaper. This experience shaped how I approach writing and communication. As an editor, I wasn’t just reviewing grammar or fixing punctuation—I was responsible for the bigger picture: making sure every piece of content fit the publication’s voice, that it told a compelling story, and that it was clear and concise. Brevity matters when ink costs money. It taught me how to see a piece of writing from multiple angles and how to provide feedback that was both constructive and thoughtful.

But the job also wasn’t just about editing others’ work; it was a crash course in time management. There’s nothing like a looming deadline to teach you how to focus. Between overseeing writers, coordinating with photographers and designers, and ensuring every article was polished and ready for print, I learned how to juggle many moving parts and still produce a high-quality product. More importantly, it taught me how to communicate with a team—giving clear instructions, collaborating with people from different backgrounds, and keeping everyone on track.

Being an editor wasn’t just about perfecting writing, though. It was about learning how to be part of the larger creative process, and that’s something that’s stuck with me as a teacher. When I work with my students today, I draw on those experiences to guide them through the same process of revision and collaboration I went through as a student.

For an English major, this type of role is a natural fit. It combines the critical thinking and writing skills you learn in class with practical, real-world experience. And when you see a piece you helped shape in print, there’s a real sense of accomplishment. That’s something I try to pass on to my students—to give them the same sense of pride in their work, no matter what path they choose after graduation.

Eric Jourgensen, Journalism Program Adviser, Palm Beach Central High

Become a Technical Writer

English majors make fantastic technical writers. Companies need professionals who can translate complex information into clear, accessible content. We’ve seen English majors thrive in HR tech, software documentation, and instructional design, crafting guides that simplify complicated processes. The best part is that it’s a high-demand field with great career growth.

Christopher Pappas, Founder, eLearning Industry Inc

Be a Communications Coordinator for a Non-Profit

One job that’s well-suited for a college student majoring in English is a communications coordinator for an environmental non-profit organization. English majors possess strong writing and storytelling abilities, which are essential when creating content that educates, informs, and motivates action. In this role, a student can write impactful newsletters, social media posts, grant proposals, and reports—all of which help raise awareness and drive donations or volunteer support for important causes. Their ability to craft compelling narratives can be instrumental in capturing the public’s attention and keeping them engaged in the organization’s mission.

Additionally, working with a non-profit allows an English major to apply their skills in a meaningful way. They can use their writing to advocate for environmental change, raise awareness about sustainability issues, and communicate the urgency of action. This kind of work is not only fulfilling but also provides valuable experience in working within an organization that values communication as a tool for social change. It’s a perfect match for someone passionate about both writing and making a positive impact on the world.

Jehann Biggs, President & Owner, In2Green

Intern as a Speechwriter

A speechwriting intern role is an ideal fit for English majors. They can help politicians, executives, or nonprofit leaders craft speeches that skillfully combine rhetoric, storytelling, and persuasion. It’s an incredible opportunity to turn complex ideas into clear, memorable messages that connect with diverse audiences. Working closely with leaders, they’ll also gain insight into how tone, pacing, and delivery can shape the impact of a speech. This experience highlights the power of words to inspire, inform, and drive change. It’s also an ideal way to practice writing and communication in a dynamic, real-world setting.

David Haskins, CEO, WrongfulDeathLawyer.com

Start a Career in Content Writing

One job that stands out for English majors is content writing, as it leverages their skills in research, communication, and creative thinking. I started my career in finance but eventually moved into developing content, and writing for various industry publications. 

As Managing Editor for Vision Magazine, I regularly crafted articles on a diverse range of topics, from insurance to meditation; a role that required clarity and insight, easily transferable across fields. English majors excel in synthesizing complex information into engaging narratives, making them valuable assets in the content writing domain. 

To break into this field, students should actively build portfolios by writing for campus publications or freelance platforms. This not only enhances their resume but also provides practical experience. Realizing the power of storytelling can transform written words into impactful content, capturing audiences and generating engagement.

Mark Agnew, CEO and Founder, Eyeglasses.com

Try Ghostwriting for Executives and Leaders

Executives, founders, and industry leaders always need content (articles, reports, speeches, even books), but they don’t have the time or skill to write it well. That’s where ghostwriters come in. A solid writer can charge $200 to $500 per blog post or thousands for a thought leadership piece. Some even land book deals worth five figures. I’ve worked with ghostwriters who turn messy ideas into polished narratives, and trust me, their work makes an impact. 

On top of that, this kind of work builds a killer portfolio. Every project sharpens writing skills, expands industry knowledge, and opens doors to high-level business connections. A student landing just a few solid clients could be making a full-time income before graduation.

Nathan Mathews, CEO and Founder, Roofer

Teach ESL Online

You see, teaching ESL online is an unexpectedly fantastic career path for English majors, and one that is underappreciated. It builds off the foundational skills you develop through an English program. 

Consider this: English majors are trained to understand the intricacies of language, dissect complex grammar, and communicate effectively. These skills are absolutely CRITICAL in teaching English to non-native speakers. In addition to knowing how to explain rules in detail, you also need someone who can explain them patiently, who can create lesson plans, and who has diverse learning styles.

In the same way that a Spanish teacher is required to have this understanding of Spanish grammar and culture in order to be effective, an ESL teacher also needs to have a deep understanding of English. They should be able to foresee some of the typical problems learners have, break idioms down, and guide students through the complexities of pronunciation. 

The technical bits are important, but English majors will often come to love language and culture, which are the seeds of great teaching. The virtual format also has built-in flexibility, which can be a real plus. It’s an opportunity to spread your love of language, make a difference, and possibly travel the world (in person and/or virtually) while doing it!

Leslie Omaña Begert, Co-Founder and Developer, FabuLingua

Scout for Literary and Film Opportunities

Literary scouting turns reading into a career. Publishing houses, film studios, and talent agencies hire scouts to discover fresh, marketable stories. A student with strong analytical skills can spot trends, evaluate manuscripts, and predict which books have commercial potential. This job sharpens critical thinking while providing insight into how the publishing and entertainment industries work. Networking with authors, editors, and producers creates opportunities far beyond the classroom. Honestly, finding the next bestseller before the world sees it is both an art and a skill.

Tom Hamilton Stubber, Managing Director, TutorCruncher

Align Jobs with Your Interests and Skills

Most jobs for English majors will involve writing and communication—arguably the most versatile skill set you can have. The key is figuring out how your interests outside of your major align with your studies and where they can be applied in the real world.

For example, if you’re passionate about sustainability, look into corporate communications roles at environmental organizations. If you’re drawn to innovation and storytelling, consider scriptwriting for a podcast network. Love research? Try grant writing or content creation for think tanks and nonprofits.

There isn’t one single “best” job for English majors, but if you’re strategic and resourceful, you can find opportunities that align with your skills and passions—and set yourself up for a strong career path.

Andrea Preziotti, Content Marketing Advisor, Modern Vintage Ink

Pursue a Career in Content Marketing

A career in content marketing presents an ideal path for English majors, drawing on their core strengths in writing, analysis, and storytelling. We regularly see companies actively seeking professionals who can craft compelling narratives about their products and services—a skill that English majors develop throughout their academic journey. English majors bring unique value to content marketing roles because they naturally understand how to adapt their writing style for different audiences, a crucial skill we’ve observed in successful marketing professionals. Their coursework in analyzing literature and crafting arguments translates directly into creating engaging blog posts, social media content, and marketing materials that resonate with target audiences. 

We find that content marketing offers a particularly smooth transition from academic to professional life. Many of our clients offer internships and entry-level positions that allow students to apply their academic skills in a business context while learning industry-specific tools and strategies. The role typically offers competitive starting salaries and clear paths for career advancement. What makes this role especially suitable for today’s English majors is its blend of creative and analytical work. Companies need professionals who can not only write well but also analyze data to measure content performance and adjust strategies accordingly. This combination of creativity and metrics-driven thinking matches perfectly with the analytical and interpretive skills English majors develop in their studies. 

Our experience shows that English majors who start in content marketing often advance into senior marketing positions, communications leadership roles, or even chief marketing officer positions. The foundation they build in understanding audience needs and crafting messages serves them well throughout their careers.

Julia Yurchak, Talent Sourcing, Acquisition & Management Specialist| Senior Recruitment Consultant, Keller Executive Search

Assist Authors as a Research Assistant

Working as a research assistant for an author, journalist, or editor is a great job for an English major because it provides real experience with how professional writing takes shape. Writers need help finding information, verifying facts, and organizing research for books, articles, or investigative projects. A student in this role gets to dig into interesting topics, summarize key details, and help shape the foundation of a piece before it is written. It is a hands-on way to see how ideas turn into published work.

This kind of job involves going through primary sources, reviewing studies, or organizing interviews so that everything is easy to reference. Writers rely on assistants to sort through complex information and make it useful. Some projects involve examining old documents, tracking down historical facts, or comparing how different sources present an issue. Many research assistants work on a contract or part-time basis, which makes it flexible enough to balance with school. It takes patience and strong attention to detail, but it teaches how to think critically about information and how to structure arguments that hold up under scrutiny. This experience helps build skills that are useful in publishing, media, and any career that involves writing, editing, or analyzing information.

Jean Christophe Gabler, Publisher & Founder, Yogi Times

Apply for a Transcriptionist Job

If you want to sharpen your writing and listening skills while getting paid, consider applying for a transcriptionist job. This is a great fit for English majors because it trains you to process information quickly, improve accuracy, and enhance your ability to capture details, all of which are valuable in careers like publishing, journalism, and content writing. Many companies look for transcriptionists to convert audio recordings into written text, making it a flexible job that can be done remotely while balancing coursework.

Students who take on transcription work during college usually have a better chance of landing writing and editing roles after graduation. Employers look for candidates who can produce clean, error-free content under tight deadlines, and transcription builds that skill naturally. Data from job placement studies show that graduates with transcription experience are more likely to be hired for roles in media, technical writing, and legal documentation. The ability to type efficiently, understand different dialects, and format transcripts properly makes job applicants stand out in competitive fields.

Adam Yong, Founder, Agility Writer

Edit Technical or Research-Based Content

Most people think of English majors as creative writers, but editing technical or research-based content is a hidden gem of a job.

Businesses, grad students, and even professors constantly need help refining reports, research papers, proposals, or grant applications.

If you have a solid grasp of grammar and structure, you can get paid well to polish their writing—without having to create content from scratch.

Why this works for an English major in college:

1. It’s high-paying – Many editors charge per word or per hour, and technical documents pay more than casual content.
   
2. It’s flexible – You can edit at your own pace, making it easy to fit around a college schedule.
   
3. It sharpens your skills – You learn how to simplify complex ideas, which is crucial in fields like law, business, and publishing.
   
4. It gives you an edge in multiple industries – If you decide to go into publishing, marketing, or even law, having professional editing experience is a major advantage.

Most people think of editing as just fixing grammar, but the real value is making writing clearer and more persuasive—something English majors have the edge to accomplish.

Austin Benton, Marketing Consultant, Gotham Artists

Work as an Editorial Assistant

For a college or university student majoring in English, I strongly recommend pursuing a role as an Editorial Assistant. This position allows you to dive into publishing, honing both your writing and editing skills. The focus on copywriting and legal compliance editing has taught me the importance of balancing creativity with precision—a key skill set in any editorial role.

In publishing, an Editorial Assistant can work on various tasks like proofreading, fact-checking, and coordinating with authors, where attention to detail is critical. This aligns perfectly with skills learned in an English program. During my time at UCLA, collaborating on literary reviews provided a foundation for understanding narrative structures and critical editing, which are essential in crafting content that both adheres to guidelines and captivates audiences.

Moreover, this role offers you experience with the publishing process, from manuscript acquisition to the final product, giving you a comprehensive understanding of content production. Being immersed in this environment can significantly improve your ability to adapt your writing style to different formats, a vital skill for any English major looking to enrich their career path.

Michelle M. Henson, Head of Copywriting, Legal Compliance Editor, Juvenon

Tutor Writing at the Campus Writing Center

One excellent part-time job for an English major is working as a writing tutor in the campus writing center. This role will help you improve your writing and editing skills and build your experience in teaching, communication, and feedback—qualities that become invaluable in publishing, journalism, and even corporate communications. Plus, you’ll be satisfied with helping fellow students improve their writing, a tangible way to use your English major in a real-world context while still in school.

Kristin Marquet, Founder & Creative Director, Marquet Media

Explore Digital Marketing Opportunities

For an English major, working in digital marketing is a smart move. Many businesses need help with website content, email campaigns, and social media posts, and strong writing skills give English majors a natural advantage. This kind of work also provides exposure to SEO, analytics, and branding—valuable skills that expand career options beyond traditional writing roles.

Unlike tutoring or research, marketing offers hands-on experience in persuasive writing and audience engagement, which are crucial in today’s digital world. It’s also highly adaptable, allowing students to freelance, intern, or work part-time while in school. Plus, by the time they graduate, they’ll have a portfolio of real-world work that sets them apart in competitive job markets.

Hamzah Khadim, SEO Expert, Logik Digital