Is it a good thing that my friend wants to get a bachelor's degree in English?

Question

I have this friend of mine who is goin to Wright State University in Ohio. She visited me recently and ever since I met her, she's always been an English major. What really concerns me is that she said she has no plans to get a doctorate or even a masters. What my question is what can someone do with only a bachelor's degree in English? I know most English teachers need a master's. Also, I'm a bioengineer so I certainly don't need anything past a bachelor's.

Answer 1

You're right...there isn't much out there for English majors. About the only thing I can think of is an editor, for a newspaper or magazine.

But if that's what she enjoys, there isn't much you can do about it.

She may not even have plans to get a job. She might just want to get married and be a stay-at-home mom.

Answer 2

Your friend should major in whatever makes her happy.  Although there aren't many career opportunities that are specific to a BA in English, employers in many fields appreciate the communication and critical thinking skills developed by a degree in English.  I have friends with BA English degrees, one of whom works as a speech writer, another as a junior executive for a major telecommunications company, another works in advertising.  There are many opportunities available to which your friend will be able to apply her degree.

Answer 3

she'll have a great job at the Post Office.

Answer 4

I have a friend who has a bachlers degree in English. While she might not get a high salary, trust me she is very happy with what she does.  While your friend may not want to get anything beyond a bachlers now, later on he/she may decide otherwise.

For you, even as a bioengineer, later on, your career may decide otherwise.

Answer 5

gmeboy,

You are correct. You can't do much with a BA in English. About her only option, should she decide to do this, is to get a teacher's certificate, and teach English to children. She should decide to go on to a Master's program, or change her major to education.

Hope this helps. Good Luck!

Answer 6

She have to do Teaching Certificate course in order to get teacher as profession after doing Masters in English after doing her Bachelor.