Is An English Degree Worth It?

A BA in English isn't just for those who like to read and write—it's an investment in cultivating creativity, thinking critically about a multitude of subjects, and becoming an effective communicator.

A degree in English is vast. Literature courses provide an expansive list of works to delve into, including global texts across history. Composition and theory classes teach students how to communicate creatively and persuasively, evaluate objectively, and conduct research.

Benefits of an English Degree

• Recognize and create engaging stories
• Understand other perspectives
• Analyze and critique written works
• Research thoroughly
• Build concrete arguments
• Communicate clearly and persuasively

What Can You Do with an English Degree?

The skills gained with an English program provide a launch pad for many career options in industries like:

• Business
• Advertising & Public Relations
• Politics
• Journalism
• Counseling
• Law
• Entertainment
• Education
• Publishing & Authorship

You can specialize in these industries through minors or concentrations. In addition, dual degrees allow students to complement their love of literature and writing with courses designed to utilize those skills in specific fields. Minnesota State Moorhead's English & Mass Communications majors add skills like news writing, photography, graphic design, and social media strategy, creating an incredibly diverse and creative toolbelt.

Interested in English education? For students looking to become English teachers, Moorhead's Communication Arts & Literature Education degree prepares them for a career in education. Students will be given the skills and experience to share their love of literature with the next generation. Graduates of this program have a 100% job placement rate.

An English degree also prepares students to dive into their interests through graduate programs. The Law School Admission Council (LSAC) found that English majors have a whopping 79% acceptance rate into law school, due to strong reading skills and persuasive writing skills developed through an English curriculum.

Why Moorhead is the Right Place for your English Degree

Brand New Facilities—Starting Fall 2026, Moorhead's English majors will study in the historic and newly renovated Weld Hall. The building is being updated with state-of-the-art technology, providing a mix of modern amenities and historic charm the building is known for.

Learning through experience—Minnesota State Moorhead has a low student-to-faculty ratio, with a focus on experiential learning. Literature classes regularly have discussions, and writing courses invite your peers and professors to give valuable feedback on your work.

Publications—Many English students write or edit for The Advocate, a student-run newspaper. Red Weather is a yearly literary publication that gives students an opportunity to showcase their personal work. 

Fast track to graduating—An English degree from Moorhead is 39 degree-specific credits, shorter than most programs at the university. This allows students to add an additional major or choose more electives that focus on their areas of interest.

Faculty mentorship—The English department faculty are accessible and supportive to students, aiding them on every step of their college journey.

Moorhead's English program develops in-demand skills valued by employers and graduate programs. With the opportunity for minors and dual degrees, students can tailor their experience for what they want to do most.