Advantages of Studying English in College

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Students entering English studies programs invariably have older adults advising them against such a career move. Common wisdom holds that studying literature and writing do not prepare students for profitable careers because those programs do not focus on vocational training like chemistry, biology, and engineering programs. Many students, however, have found that the liberal arts educations that they get earning a bachelor's in English is exactly what they need to kick start their careers.

English studies programs reinforce a liberal arts education that helps students learn to think and communicate well. Most English classes, whether they focus on reading 18th century novels or the latest post-modern works, concentrate on developing analytical and critical thinking skills that graduates can use in just about any career. Plus, English courses typically require students to organize their thoughts and express them accurately by writing lengthy papers. Many programs even encourage students to give oral presentations that improve public speaking skills.

Preparing for a Job after College

These are skills that apply to just about any job that an English student could want to pursue after graduation. A good English studies program helps students develop the critical thinking and reading skills that they need to enter law school. It also gives them the chance to learn communication skills that they will need if they choose to pursue a career in business. Many graduates even find that they can enter the tech world with some additional training. Skills such as patience, the ability to see multiple perspectives, and knowing how to ask pointed questions often helps English graduates who develop interests in everything from medical science to computer engineering.

Are Jobs Available for English Grads?

Graduating with a degree in English might not prepare you for a specific career, but, in many respects, that is a good thing in today's fast-paced world where employees need to evolve quickly. Students who have learned to think critically and approach problems from multiple perspectives have a distinct advantage over those who only learned to perform rote skills.

Flexibility can also benefit English graduates who know how to apply their skills to a wide range of situations. Today's technology and business trends move so quickly that employees never know whether their job positions will exist several years down the road. People with English degrees, however, have flexible skills that they can help them fit into a wider variety of positions. When one job disappears, they are ready to jump into another.