English Career Map

What is English?

The Bachelor of Arts in English provides students the opportunity to explore the study of literature. Reading American and British literature from the Middle Ages to the present, majors learn the arts of literary criticism by composing interpretations of novels, poems, plays, and essays. Students can add a concentration in either Creative Writing or Professional Writing and Editing, learning to craft compelling creative work, or to practice the kinds of writing that are important in the workplace. In their classes, and through internships and other research opportunities, English majors integrate reading, research, and analytic writing skills that are crucial to careers in any field where mastery of the language is valued.

 

 

Awareness

Half lightbulb and half brain

First Year

  • Develop attention to detail and ability to meet deadlines
  • Develop strong sense of skills related to literary works 
  • Establish communications skills and an open minded perspective 
  • Take English Composition I and II

Middle Years

  • Take 300 and 400-level English courses including EH 300
  • Gain greater competence in literary fundamentals 
  • Practice the use of higher-level concepts important to literary study 
  • Refine skills to craft  persuasive interpretations of literary works

Last Year

  • Take upper-level courses that focus on various literary periods and national traditions 
  • Take courses devoted to particular genres and to literary theory and rhetoric

Exploration

Half lightbulb and half brain

First Year

  • Explore student organizations and
    leadership opportunities through Involve South
  • Attend open-mic or literary readings and events 
  • Join student organizations like the Oracle Fine Arts Review and the Creative Writing Club to connect with peers

Middle Years

  • Participate in an internship to explore potential future careers, gain direct experience, expand your professional network, and enhance your resume
  • Interact with major national and international writers though the Stokes Center Series 
  • Attend and participate in the Spring Lecture Series, where renowned and innovative  English literature, rhetoric, and theory scholars present their latest work  

Last Year

  • Develop relationships with community partners 
  • Attend networking events 
  • Learn to explain the importance of the skills gained through a degree in English

Preparation

Briefcase

First Year

Middle Years

  • Engage through experiential learning opportunities like internships,  studying abroad, student publications,  and service learning
  • Attend career fairs and networking events to become knowledgeable of career opportunities available

Last Year

  • Compile a portfolio of publications, skills, and writings
  • Decide whether to pursue full-time employment or graduate school before final semester
  • Meet with Career Development to finalize resume and prepare strategies for the job search or graduate school preparation

How can you excel in this major? 

The Department of English has a highly engaged faculty that offer exceptional advising and mentorship, supporting students through every stage of their degree.  In addition to online guidance, the department regularly offers workshops and advising meetings for students to assist them with their learning as well as finding and applying for jobs.

 

Students can participate in professional internships, tutoring, community service opportunities, study abroad, and other activities that prepare them for a range of career fields. The Department of English encourages all English students to work with our Career Representative, with their faculty advisors and mentors, and with our internship coordinator to help with career planning. 

 

What can I do with this major?

  • Publishing
  • Writing and Editing
  • Education
  • User Experience Design
  • Social Media Specialists
  • Social Media Specialists
  • Government and Non-Profits
  • Law and Policy
  • Business

What skills will I learn?

  • Effective written and oral communication
  • Critical thinking and analysis of complex issues
  • Cultural appreciation, competency and understanding
  • Ethical judgment and reasoning

 

USA Career Development
(251) 460-6188
careerdevelopment@southalabama.edu


Department of English
(251) 460-6146
english@southalabama.edu

Humanities Building, Room 240
591 USA Drive, N.
Mobile, AL 36688