Write intelligently and articulately. Read analytically. Interpret the language of politics, religion, and philosophy. See how language shapes the world. These are the objectives of degree programs in English language and literature.

Focus on the history, structure, and use of English. Learn about classic literature, British literature, American literature, and children’s literature. Concentrate your studies on prose (novels, short stories, plays) or poetry; or on writing theory, English composition, and the differences between writing fiction and nonfiction. Examine how culture and literature intersect.

Studying English is about a lot more than reading and analyzing the works of Shakespeare. It is about learning to write and communicate, to investigate and obtain information, and to understand the linguistic and literary identity of this global language.

Pro Tip
Still unsure if a degree in english language and literature is your calling? Take the career test
  • English

    Satisfaction:

    High

    Avg Grad Salary:

    $64k

    English
  • English Composition

    Satisfaction:

    High

    Avg Grad Salary:

    $52k

    English Composition
  • Literature

    Satisfaction:

    High

    Avg Grad Salary:

    $69k

    Literature