Discover & learn literature
Studying English literature can make you a more capable critical thinker and a better communicator — skills that are essential across a variety of professions. Read on to find out why you should learn English literature online.
Why learn English literature online?
Books are a form of entertainment, but they're also an excellent tool for sharpening your analytical and critical thinking capacity — it may jumpstart your creativity, too.
For example, English literature coursework may require you to decipher the writer's intent and why they chose specific literary devices. You may also compare texts, research history and culture, and even evaluate your personal values through literature studies.
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Certificates
Choosing the right online English literature program for you
There's more than one way to learn English literature online. Read on to find out what type of program is right for you.
Courses
Free online literature courses offered by edX provide an in-depth study of a particular topic, such as literary movements, canonical works, or literary techniques. Upon completion, you have the option to purchase a certificate.
Certifications
Professional certifications in English literature studies indicate mastery of a specific area. For example, you may get a certificate in children's literature, historical fiction, or comparative literary studies.
Degrees
With an online degree program from edX, you can earn a bachelor's or master's that aligns with your career goals. The schedule flexibility that online programs offer can allow you to study without needing to relocate or commute. Degrees may take 2-5 years to complete, depending on your pace of study and the program's credit requirements.
Jobs in literature
Studying literature can prepare you for jobs that require written communication, critical analysis, and creative thinking skills. Below are a few popular careers in which students of literature can excel.
Writer
Writers often have careers in marketing, newspapers, magazines, and publishing. However, they also work for other industries that publish content, such as education, technology, and travel.
- Required education: A degree in literature, journalism, or a related field is preferred but not required. Courses on associated subjects can also prepare you for a career in writing.
- Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) median annual salary (2023): $73,690
Technical writer
Technical writers create detailed informational content for various companies. This may include instruction manuals, grant proposals, and product guides.
- Required education: A bachelor's degree in English literature, communications, or a related field is preferred. Technical expertise may be required.
- BLS median annual salary (2023): $80,050
Librarian
Librarians may work at schools, universities, museums, and public libraries. They may teach others how to use library resources, oversee budgets, create event programming, and manage databases of library materials.
- Required education: A master's degree in library science is typically required.
- BLS median annual salary (2023): $64,370
Elementary, middle, or high school teacher
Teachers can teach literature, creative writing, poetry, and journalism across all grade levels. Note that to become an educator, you must obtain licensure. Requirements for licensure vary by state.
- Required education: Bachelor's, master's, or doctoral degree required.
- BLS median annual salary (2023): $63,670-$65,220
Editor
Industries like journalism, marketing, and publishing require skilled editors to plan content and review writers' work. Some editors also hire writers and manage budgets.
- Required education: A bachelor's degree is strongly preferred but not required. Education in communications or literature can be beneficial.
- BLS median annual salary (2023): $75,020
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