Careers for the English Major

The English major, leading to the B.A. or B.S. degree, provides the foundation for a variety of careers. In offices, banks, hospitals, schools of nursing, social work, and government, as well as in many businesses and industries, there are increasing opportunities for employees who can communicate clearly and succinctly. Publishing companies provide another source of employment for the English graduate, as do corporations that issue annual reports, in-house or external publications, and instruction manuals. In part as a consequence of the computer revolution, writing and editing have become major sources of employment for English majors.

In addition to preparing students for positions that call primarily for language skills, the English major is a fine preparation for any work where the ability to think independently and creatively is valued. Because the English program fosters critical thinking, logical analysis, and independent study, men and women with a broad liberal arts education often become prime candidates for top-level management positions. The English major also provides ideal preparation for graduate work in such fields as law, education, business, and communication.

For those planning academic careers in middle and senior high schools, the program includes the subject-matter courses required for licensure to teach in the secondary schools of Tennessee. Students in the program should plan their course work in consultation with a faculty adviser assigned by the Department of Languages and Literature and with a minor adviser assigned by the Education Department (Claxton 205).

Careers for the Foreign Language Major

A major in Foreign Language, culminating in a Bachelor of Arts degree, can give a student a competitive edge in today’s job market. Students who have acquired skills in one or more foreign languages will find many opportunities in today’s global economy.

Opportunities for Foreign Language majors include primary and secondary teaching, journalism, government and foreign service, music and art careers, international business, etc. Foreign Language majors can perform well in a variety of different fields because of the strong communication skills they have in their native language and the language(s) that they have chosen to study.

For those planning academic careers in middle and senior high schools, the program includes the subject-matter courses required for licensure to teach in the secondary schools of Tennessee. Students in the program should plan their course work in consultation with a faculty adviser assigned by the Department of Languages and Literature and with a minor adviser assigned by the Education Department (Claxton 205).