Many students hesitate to pursue an English degree because they question whether it can pay off financially. The common myth that English majors are unemployable is widespread but inaccurate. There are many similarities between English degree prospects and those of other degrees.
What Jobs Do English Majors Actually Get?
Despite common belief, English majors are suited for a wide variety of careers beyond writing or teaching. According to multiple university career resources, English majors develop core abilities—critical thinking, communication, creativity, precision, complex writing, analysis, and others—that qualify them to pursue a wide range of fields.
English majors frequently build careers in fields such as:
- Journalism, publishing, reporting, editing
- Copywriting, technical writing, content strategy
- Teaching, education, tutoring
- Law, policy, advocacy, legal research
- Marketing, public relations, advertising
- Nonprofit management, mental health support, community work
- Technology, medical communication, finance, entertainment
These examples highlight the wide versatility an English degree offers. The skills learned in an English major translate into to modern, high-demand fields.
What Do English Majors Actually Earn?
While salary figures vary between major reporting organizations, the general conclusion is consistent: English majors earn solid, competitive incomes that align with the median earnings of all degree holders.
- The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics reports English majors to have a median annual salary of $60,000, compared to $70,00 for degree holders across all fields.
- The Modern Language Association, using many data sources, found that English majors earn a median annual salary of $76,000 compared to $78,000 for all degree holders.
Both sources agree on another key point: employment rates for English majors are nearly identical to those of other degree holders. They also acknowledge the wide career opportunities of English majors.
Despite differing numbers, the patterns remain consistent—English majors maintain strong employment rates, enter diverse career paths, and earn more than many people expect when thinking about the humanities.
Increasing Earnings with an English Degree
Another way to increase earnings is to pursue higher education. On the lower end of the salary spectrum, Georgetown University states that English majors with a graduate’s degree earn a median of $71,000 annually. On the higher end, the Modern Language Association lists $83,000. Across studies, higher education consistently boosts earning potential.
Still, the most valuable part of an English degree is not any single salary statistic—it is the transferrable skills that can be carried into any field. English majors enjoy more flexibility and freedom in shaping their career paths over time.
Key Takeaways
Although salary statistics vary by source, English majors consistently earn respectable incomes and maintain strong employment rates. With opportunities in dozens of fields—with the potential to increase earnings through graduate study—the English degree is far more financially viable than many assume.
English majors graduate with adaptable skills that remain valuable throughout their careers. No matter which path they choose, much is possible with an English degree.
Sources
Careers After an English Major | Department of English
Field of degree: English : Occupational Outlook Handbook: : U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics
B15014: Median Earnings in the Past ... - Census Bureau Table
The Major Payoff: Evaluating Earnings and Employment Outcomes Across Bachelor's Degrees - CEW Georgetown
English majors earn similar salaries than other degree holders
Report on English Majors’ Career Preparation and Outcomes
2024-ADE-Report-Press-Release.pdf
Economic-Value-of-College-Majors-Full-Report-v2.compressed.pdf
Cost of Living Index by State 2026