Liberal Arts & Humanities - English Literature
If your idea of a perfect day is one spent curled up on the couch reading your favorite book, or sitting at a desk whittling away at your latest short story or novel, then a degree in English Literature may be the perfect fit for you.
Types of Degrees
English Literature students can pursue an associate degree (2 years), bachelor's degree (4 years), master's degree (6-7 years), or doctorate degree (8+ years). Master's and doctorate degrees usually lead to administrative/management positions or jobs in post-secondary teaching.
Admission Requirements
A high school diploma or equivalent is required, with a strong academic background in English and writing coursework helping applicants obtain acceptance into their desired school. Each school has its own specific requirements, making it important for you to explore several options before settling on a specific school.
Career Opportunities After Earning An English Literature Degree
The range of career opportunities available to someone with a degree in English Literature include:
- English Language and Literature Teacher, Postsecondary
- Adult Literacy Teacher
- Author
- Information based on national data, not school-specific information. Conditions in your area may vary.
Post Graduate Salary Information
According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, the mean salary for an English Language and Literature Teacher, Postsecondary was $80,180 in 2019 (1)while Writers/Authors made a median salary of $63,200 in 2019. (2)
Note that the average salary varies widely not only depending on the career chosen but on geographical location and employer. Conditions in your area may vary.
References
Careers associated with these educational opportunities often require additional degrees and certifications not offered as part of the educational opportunities presented by this website.
Information based on national data, not school-specific information. Conditions in your area may vary.