How an English Degree Can Amplify Black Voices and Stories

Studying English opens the door to exciting careers involving the written and spoken word. Whether you pursue a bachelor’s, master’s, or even a Ph.D., an English degree provides many opportunities in varied fields after graduation.

At its core, an English degree is an exploration of diverse disciplines rooted in language. Most programs focus on analyzing literature, both classic and contemporary. You’ll study poetry, prose, drama, and experimental genres while gaining a foundation in literary criticism.

Many English programs also incorporate rhetoric, linguistics, and research skills. Some even offer courses in film, television, and pop culture, broadening your understanding of how language and storytelling shape society.

Writing is a significant component of an English degree, covering everything from analytical essays to career-oriented writing. Depending on your selected courses, you might refine your skills in literary analysis, technical writing (such as user manuals), or business communication (like résumés and professional correspondence), to name only a few.

An English degree can prepare you to teach literature and composition, report on global events as a journalist, or craft compelling stories for film, television, and books. It also serves as a strong foundation for careers in marketing, public relations, communications, and beyond.

Recognizing and Honoring Writers of Color

Black authors such as James Baldwin, Maya Angelou, and Toni Morrison have profoundly contributed to literature, history, and cultural discourse, shaping American identity, politics, and collective awareness. In recent years, Black representation has expanded across film and television, with trailblazing creators like Shonda Rhimes, Kenya Barris, Ava DuVernay, Barry Jenkins, Issa Rae, Donald Glover, Lena Waithe, Jordan Peele, and Tyler Perry — just a few among many — redefining storytelling and visibility in the media.

Engaging with the works of Black writers and creators is essential for exploring Black identities and recognizing how their contributions have paved the way for future generations of artists. By amplifying voices of color, we take meaningful steps toward more significant social equity, ensuring that perspectives historically marginalized are given the space they deserve in literature, media, and beyond.

The Importance of Increasing Black Representation in English Studies

Earning an English degree offers Black American students many academic and professional opportunities.

Historically, English programs have centered on the works and identities of Eurocentric male figures. However, equity-driven colleges and universities now provide a more inclusive approach, incorporating diverse perspectives, including African American language and culture. Advocates for Black linguistic justice are pushing for greater recognition of African American Vernacular English (AAVE), highlighting its richness and cultural significance. This linguistic diversity enhances the academic landscape and fosters a deeper appreciation of artistic expression.

An English degree also sharpens rhetorical skills essential for self-expression, storytelling, and social advocacy. Research shows that English majors develop advanced critical thinking abilities and the capacity to craft complex, original work. Studying English provides the tools to shape narratives, challenge dominant discourses, and influence everything from literature to media and marketing.

An English degree opens doors to various fulfilling and impactful careers beyond academia. Black graduates with expertise in language and communication can thrive in fields such as law, media, politics, and nonprofit work — industries where they can drive change, amplify underrepresented voices, and shape public discourse. By pursuing English studies, Black students gain a degree and a powerful means of influencing the world around them.

HBCUs Can Help You Start a Career in English Language-Based Fields

Given the recent Supreme Court ruling on affirmative action in college admissions, more Black students are likely to turn to historically Black colleges and universities (HBCUs) for their education. These institutions will do everything they can to meet increased student demand. HBCUs help more students earn college degrees, compete successfully for well-paying jobs in competitive career fields, improve workforce diversity, and increase upward economic mobility.

People of all ages, races, and life paths can help improve diversity in English literature and language-related disciplines by supporting scholarships and other forms of funding for HBCUs with related programs. By donating today, you can make a difference in the lives of English students in one easy step.

Careers for English Majors

Because of the wide range of areas that are covered within English studies, seeking an English degree can be the path to an array of exciting and challenging careers, such as:

Editors
Reporters, correspondents, and broadcast news analysts
Technical writers
Writers and authors, including screenwriters
Marketing
Content creation
Teachers and professors
Interpreters and translators
Public relations specialists

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Coursework for English Majors

English majors will gain exposure to literature, film, poetry, plays, and more. Some schools also include majors that select a track or concentration, such as British poetry, African American writers, gender, sexuality, or another theme, genre, or historical period. Writing majors might focus on creative writing by taking courses on literary forms like novels, graphic novels, poetry, and scriptwriting. Other schools offer more specific writing tracks in literary prose, poetry, and nonfiction writing.

Some key parts of all of these courses are the analysis and discussion of the specific works that are studied. This involves forming opinions on the work, analyzing the choices of the creator, examining the effects of those choices on the work, the larger cultural significance or message of a piece, and then explaining your views either verbally or through written papers to your fellow classmates and your professors.

Tougaloo Chapel

UNCF Schools to Consider

There are over 25 UNCF-member HBCUs that offer degrees in English, including:

Programs and Professional Organizations

Several professional organizations may be appropriate for those with an English degree, depending on their specific industry. These include:

douglass winner with donor and Uncf reps

2020 Douglass Bicentennial Scholarship recipient with donor (left) and UNCF representatives

Scholarships Available

There’s no better way to start your path to a successful English and writing career than with a solid financial foundation. Fortunately, many scholarships are available through UNCF. Keep an eye on the UNCF website for current scholarship opportunities and announcements.

You can search for specific scholarships and view those currently accepting applications here. Students should also check with each college, university, and professional organization to see if additional scholarships are available for studying English.

As you explore your options, use our guide to apply for scholarships and grants. You can also receive guidance by submitting a major interest form if you are interested in a career in English. Submit the form on our website to get started. Follow us on UNCF’s social media channels to receive notifications about our scholarships and member HBCUs. Reach out today!

Contributing to UNCF member schools shows your support for students pursuing English and writing careers to create a better and just world. Education is the greatest tool for creating a just and equitable society where truth reigns, and economic mobility is available to all. Help us achieve this future by donating today!