High-Paying Jobs for English Majors Who Love to Write

Many people question the validity of an English degree. However, English majors spend their time at school honing valuable skills that equip them for a variety of high-paying jobs. Many industries actively seek out English and other Humanities graduates for their enhanced communication and critical thinking skills. 

Although many English majors find work outside their field of study, others may be hoping to find a writing job after college where they can continue to hone their craft and express creativity with the English language. Read on to learn about five reliable high-paying jobs for English majors who love to write. 

1. Freelance Copywriter 

Copywriters create online written marketing content for businesses. They write email campaigns, long-form blog content, website copy, and social media posts that appeal to a business’s customer base and increase overall revenue. Copywriters use psychology to showcase the benefits of goods and services. 

Because many people use the internet to search for services and products, copywriters use search engine optimization (SEO) principles to make businesses more discoverable by searchers. They integrate marketing principles into their writing and tailor each piece for a specific audience. 

According to ZipRecruiter, copywriters who work for a company make an average of $59,084 a year. However, freelance copywriters who specialize in a niche can make a higher income if they network strategically and deliver high-quality work. 

2. Brand Manager

In this role, English graduates will combine writing with interpersonal skills, research, and critical thinking to advance a business’ marketing strategy. This job includes more collaboration and public speaking skills than other careers for English majors. 

Many English majors thrive in this environment, as working in this role is creative and challenging while still including a heavy dose of writing. English majors who love spending time with people will enjoy cultivating relationships with their marketing team and other business partners. This role also involves a deep understanding of social media and the way it influences modern marketing. 

Working as a brand manager requires strong leadership skills, so English majors interested in this position should get experience leading teams and collaborating with others. Experience in an entry-level marketing position is also helpful. After graduates work up to this role, brand managers make an average of $154,470 per year in the United States. 

3. Journalist

According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, journalists and people working in similar roles earn an average of $66,000 a year. English majors excel in this position since this work relies on skillful research, organization, and written communication. 

Journalists often work in a fast-paced environment and are able to engage with current cultural debates and news stories. They play a role in shaping the public’s perception of events and bringing important issues to the forefront of people’s minds. In this role, English majors play a part in recorded history every day.  

In addition to writing, journalists also spend time editing, proofreading, and verifying information before articles are published. Journalism is a competitive industry, so English majors will need strong people skills and organizational habits to stand out. Clear, concise writing is the goal in journalism. 

4. Editor

Working as an editor is another excellent fit for English majors. On average, these jobs pay $73,910 per year in the United States. Graduates usually start out in assistant roles or as interns and then work their way up to managing and directing positions over time. 

Editors revise previously written material so that it’s ready to be published. Their work includes proofreading, making organizational changes, and generally improving text or a manuscript until it shines. They often work under tight deadlines, so time-management skills are essential.  

Some editors work specifically with books, while others may edit online content or technical materials. Because written communication is crucial for many different industries, editors work across many different fields. Another part of their role is to communicate with authors and coworkers to ensure the finished written product is perfect. 

5. Technical Writer

Technical writers use written language to explain how processes and products work. They structure and write manuals, guides, and how-to pages that help readers understand and use products. Technical writers rely on strong visual and critical thinking skills to clearly explain complicated ideas on paper. 

Technical writers are often hired by companies in medicine or other science-based industries.  Their work makes customers’ and companies’ lives easier by translating technical ideas into written copy that ordinary people can understand. 

While technical writing isn’t as creative as other high-paying jobs for English majors, it comes with a steady income of $78,590 per year on average. People who love problem-solving and explaining complicated concepts to others will enjoy this role. 

Working in Writing

English majors have a wide range of job opportunities after graduating college. Many skills from this degree are transferable across industries. However, there are also many high-paying jobs available that directly relate to an English degree. 

These are five of the top high-paying careers for English majors who love to write. However, many other roles combine a love of writing with reliable compensation. Contrary to popular belief, English majors can do what they love and put food on the table at the same time.