What Can You Do with an English Degree? Options with a Bachelor of Arts Online from SMSU
| 4 Min Read
The online Bachelor of Arts (BA) in English program from Southwest Minnesota State University (SMSU) opens the door to a wide range of career opportunities. While often associated with teaching or writing, an English degree equips students with skills that are valued in many fields. Graduates of SMSU’s program develop a refined understanding of language, improved reading comprehension and the ability to produce writing that is clear and convincing.
An English degree helps students develop a variety of transferable skills since the program strengthens their ability to dissect intricate ideas, construct well-supported arguments and communicate effectively. For those with a passion for words, an SMSU online degree in English offers students an opportunity to pursue various roles that involve writing and publishing, such as:
Editor – Editors make sure written materials are clear, accurate and consistent. They refine manuscripts, articles and web content, focusing on grammar, style and coherence. An English degree improves a student’s vocabulary and attention to detail, skills that are highly valued in any industry. SMSU’s program prepares students for editorial roles within and outside the publishing field.
Author – The dream of becoming an author is very much within reach for English graduates. The literary and creative writing components of SMSU’s curriculum help students develop their ability to tell engaging stories in their own unique voice, whether they are writing fiction, nonfiction, poetry or screenplays.
Copywriter – Every company has an advertising and marketing division. Creative copywriters whose words and ideas successfully attract and engage customers are highly sought-after. They develop copy for everything from website content and product descriptions to slogans and email campaigns, within organizations or in agency settings.
Technical Writer – Technical writers translate complex information into understandable instructions, manuals and reports. This profession requires precision, clarity and the ability to simplify complex concepts.
Web Content Specialist – Web content specialists are important for creating and managing online material. This can include blog posts, articles, website pages and social media updates. English graduates, with their understanding of audience and effective communication, are qualified to produce engaging online content that resonates with users.
Freelance Content Writer – Many English graduates choose the flexibility of freelance content writing, producing a wide array of materials for various clients. This can involve writing articles, blog posts, marketing materials or even academic papers.
Diverse Professional Opportunities
The value of an English degree extends beyond traditional writing roles since the skills developed during the program are transferable to a range of professions. SMSU’s online BA prepares graduates for careers outside publishing and editorial fields as well, including:
Teacher – English graduates can qualify to teach literature, composition and language arts at various levels. The SMSU program equips students with foundational skills needed for licensure or advanced study in education, enabling them to pass on their love of language and storytelling to their own students one day.
Advertising Manager – Advertising managers oversee campaigns and teams. To excel in this field, professionals must possess strong communication skills, a deep understanding of human behavior and the ability to creatively tell compelling stories. With their mastery of the English language, graduates excel at crafting powerful messages that resonate with audiences.
Lawyer – While law school requires additional education, an undergraduate degree in English serves as excellent preparation for a career in the legal field. SMSU’s BA program strengthens a student’s analytical skills, understanding of language and ability to construct well-reasoned arguments — all of which are crucial to success in a field.
Choose Your Career Path With a BA in English
In Southwest Minnesota State University’s online BA in English program, highly experienced faculty teach students how to approach words and ideas with creativity and curiosity while encouraging them to question, analyze and synthesize information. Through hands-on workshops and real-time feedback sessions, students develop valuable skills they can immediately apply in a variety of settings.
To ensure coursework aligns with their personal and professional goals, students can choose creative writing or literature tracks. With a professional portfolio in hand, graduates exit the program well positioned for rewarding jobs in any industry.
Learn more about Southwest Minnesota State University’s online Bachelor of Arts in English program.