Career Paths

What Can You Do With an English Degree? (2026)

February 8, 2026 ยท 9 min read

In an economy where every company is a content company, English degree skills โ€” analytical reading, precise writing, critical thinking โ€” are more commercially valuable than ever.

Content Strategy

Plan and manage organizational content. Starting: $50,000-$65,000. Directors: $100,000-$140,000. Remote-friendly.

UX Writing

Craft the words in digital products. One of the best-compensated writing paths: $90,000-$140,000 at major tech companies.

Technical Writing

Create documentation for complex products. Starting: $55,000-$80,000. Senior: $85,000-$110,000. Strong job security.

Publishing and Editing

Manuscript evaluation, content editing, copyediting. Starting: $38,000-$50,000. Senior editors: $65,000-$90,000.

Grant Writing

Secure funding for nonprofits and research institutions. $50,000-$80,000 in staff positions.

Law School Prep

English is one of the strongest pre-law majors. Close reading and argumentation transfer directly to legal practice.

Maximize Your Degree

Learn CMS platforms, SEO, and basic HTML. Build a writing portfolio. Consider liberal arts value. Take our quiz.

FAQs

Jobs?

Content strategy, UX writing, technical writing, publishing, editing, teaching, PR, law.

Worth it?

Yes. Demand for skilled writers is at an all-time high.

Good money?

$40K-$55K starting. Tech content/UX roles: $80K-$130K.

Sources

  1. Bureau of Labor Statistics, Occupational Outlook Handbook
  2. Bureau of Labor Statistics, Occupational Employment and Wage Statistics
  3. Georgetown University Center on Education and the Workforce
  4. NACE Salary Survey
  5. U.S. Census Bureau, American Community Survey