Exploring Career Opportunities with a Bachelor of Arts in English: Degrees in Literature vs. Creative Writing
Obtaining a Bachelor of Arts (BA) in English opens numerous doors for career opportunities beyond the usual professions like becoming a scientist, engineer, or mathematician. An English degree equips you with valuable skills such as excellent writing and critical thinking that are highly transferable to a variety of fields. This article delves into the diverse career paths available and examines the benefits of focusing on literature versus creative writing.
What Can You Do with an English BA?
With a BA in English, the opportunities are expansive. For instance, I hold an English degree and have experience as a technical writer, technical support specialist, teacher (both tech classes and English as a Second Language), and currently work in communications, and serve as a master creativity coach. Additional training was required in each role, but my English degree laid a solid foundation that enabled me to pursue these diverse career paths.
Is an Emphasis on Literature Better Than an Emphasis on Creative Writing?
The choice between a literature or a creative writing emphasis depends on your personal interests and career goals. Both emphases offer crucial skills in coherent writing and deep thinking, but they approach these skills from different perspectives. Literature emphasizes the analysis and interpretation of existing texts, while creative writing focuses on the actual composition of new works. Neither emphasis is inherently better; instead, it depends on how you perceive your strengths and professional aspirations.
For those interested in teaching, a literature emphasis might be particularly advantageous, as it can prepare you to analyze and teach literary works effectively. However, a creative writing emphasis can also land you a teaching position, provided you are a published writer and can bring practical, hands-on knowledge to the classroom. If your goal is to solely teach writing theory, a literature emphasis might be more appropriate.
Advanced Education: Master's Degree in English
Continuing your education with a Master's degree in English can qualify you to teach at the college or university level. This advanced degree also enhances your qualifications in critical thinking and writing, making you a more competitive candidate in a variety of professional fields.
Bachelor's Degree: A Stamp of Diligence
A BA in English from a four-year institution demonstrates to potential employers that you are committed to your career and willing to learn and adapt. It’s a valuable piece of paper that can serve as a stepping stone to various professional developments. Furthermore, it shows that you can handle a rigorous academic environment, which is highly regarded in many industries.
The True Measure of Value
The true value of a liberal arts degree like an English BA is demonstrated by the wide range of careers that graduates can pursue. According to recent data, over 20,000 people in the United States today with some form of bachelor's degree are currently employed as parking lot attendants. This stark reality underscores the broad applicability of the critical skills learned in an English program.
Ultimately, your success and happiness in your chosen career path depend on your willingness to write and continuously develop your skills. Consider this the true measure of the value of your degree: how well you can write, think critically, and adapt to new experiences.
To those aspiring to write, the most crucial step is to start writing. Disconnect from social media and dedicate time to honing your craft. Continuous practice and dedication are key to developing your unique voice and style as a writer.
Good luck on your journey of writing and career development!