English Major
English is the study of literature, language, and writing in English. It is a major within Arts & Humanities.
The English major is the study of literature, language, and writing in English. Students examine how language works—how writers and speakers use words, style, and structure to create meaning and affect audiences. The major asks questions like: What does a text actually say, and what does it mean? How do authors develop ideas and characters? How has the English language changed over time? How do we write clearly and persuasively ourselves? Students develop skills in close reading, critical thinking, and written analysis that apply across many contexts.
Students drawn to the English major typically enjoy reading, writing, and thinking carefully about ideas and human experience. The major usually begins with foundational courses in literature and writing that teach core analytical methods and the history of English-language texts. As students progress, they choose more specialized courses focused on particular genres, time periods, authors, or themes that match their interests. Throughout, students refine their ability to understand complex texts and express their own ideas in writing, building from general literacy skills to more advanced, independent work in literary analysis and composition.
Typical coursework
Course requirements vary by school, but a English program commonly includes topics such as:
- Literary analysis
- British literature
- American literature
- Composition
- Critical theory
- Creative writing
Most programs also include general-education requirements and, in many fields, a capstone project, internship, or research experience.
Degree levels
English is commonly offered at these levels:
- Bachelor's
- Master's
- Doctoral
Availability differs by institution, and program names can vary (for example, a Bachelor of Arts versus a Bachelor of Science track).
Common career directions
Graduates with a English background pursue a range of paths. Some roles related to this field of study include:
- Writer
- Editor
- Content strategist
- Teacher
Many careers require additional steps beyond the major — such as a graduate degree, a license, or a certification — and many graduates work in fields unrelated to their major. What you study is one factor among many in where your career goes.
General career information is drawn from the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics Occupational Outlook Handbook. Career paths vary widely by person, school, and region; this is not a list of guaranteed jobs or earnings.
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Find degree programs →Frequently asked questions
What is a English major?
English is the study of literature, language, and writing in English. It is part of arts & humanities, and combines foundational coursework with more focused study as you advance.
What courses do English majors take?
Coursework varies by school, but commonly includes topics such as literary analysis, british literature, american literature, composition, and others, plus general-education requirements.
What can you do with a English major?
Graduates pursue a range of paths, including roles such as writer, editor, content strategist. Many roles require additional steps such as a graduate degree, license, or certification. This is general information, not a guarantee of any job or salary.
What degree levels is English offered at?
It is commonly offered at the bachelor's, master's, doctoral level, though availability varies by institution.