Doctoral in English
If you want to become a teacher or a writer, you should work towards a degree in English. A program in English will help you develop proficiency in English language and/or literature, which may open up several career paths for you. With a degree in English, you can find work in the education or the business sector. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, employment of postsecondary teachers is expected to grow by 17% between 2010 and 2020.
English Degree Programs
Both traditional and online schools offer programs in English. Students can work towards the undergraduate degrees such as the associate or bachelor's programs or enroll in the graduate programs such as the master's or doctoral programs. The bachelor's, master's and doctoral programs are suitable for the ones who want to become teachers while aspiring writers may break into the field with just an associate or bachelor's degree. Students pursuing English degree programs get a chance to develop leadership and analytical skills in addition to honing their expertise in English language or literature. The coursework may include topics such as social sciences, communications, advanced reading, poetry and creative writing and American, English and world literature as well as contemporary and dramatic literature.
Doctoral in English
The doctoral in English program provides students with a strong background in literature and composition. Research is a major component of these programs. Students who have already earned a master's degree in English can advance their knowledge by pursuing a doctoral program. The degree generally takes 5-7 years to complete. The exact duration of a degree depends on the enrollment status of the students. A PhD degree in English can help student become a novelist, teacher, technical writer or literary critic.
Students in these programs also get a chance to pick an area of specialty such as teaching English as a second language, creative writing or composition. Candidates who want to enroll in a PhD program must hold a master's degree in a field related to English from an accredited institute. They may also have to provide GRE scores, letters of recommendations and a statement of purpose.
Curriculum
The doctoral program in English may include a variety of topics. Classes are available in history of the English language, American literature, medieval literature and rhetoric. Students can also take courses in Native American literature and British literature.
Online Degrees in English
English degree programs are also offered by online schools. Those of you who are already working and wish to improve their career prospects by earning advanced degrees in English can get enrolled in the online programs. The ones who want to switch careers can also pursue these programs. The distance learning programs allows you to maintain a balance between your personal and professional lives.
Job Opportunities
Students with degrees in English may find job opportunities in education, business, journalism, and related fields. They can also find work in architectural, engineering, and related services. Graduates can become writers, teachers, reporters or editors. According to the BLS, the median annual wage of technical writers was $63,280 while broadcast news analysts made $54,140 (2010).