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 $87,090 in 2023 ¹ while Writers/Authors made a median salary of $73,690 in 2023. ²

Note that the average salary varies widely not only depending on career chosen, but on geographical location and employer. Conditions in your area may vary.

References

1. Bureau of Labor Statistics
2. Bureau of Labor Statistics

• 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.