You have a strong love of literature, but the widespread belief that a literature degree is impractical dampens your excitement.
You feel pressured to conform to conventional career paths, despite your true passion for words and stories.
The lack of awareness about the possibilities for literature graduates leaves you uncertain about your career options. But it’s time to break free from stereotypes.
A literature degree can help you get your dream job. In this article, we’ll explore the top 15 literature degree jobs that are in high demand and offer great salaries.
Here are the job options we will be discussing in this article:
- Teacher
- Lexicographer
- Literary Agent
- Advertising Account Executive
- Content Strategist
- Corporate Communication Specialist
- Education Policy Analyst
- Social Media Manager
- Paralegal
- Public Relations Specialist
- Copywriter
- Grant Writer
- Librarian
- Tutor
- Editorial Assistant
1. Teacher
Your passion for literature and strong communication skills make teaching an ideal career for you. As an educator, you play a pivotal role in shaping young minds, fostering a love for learning, and inspiring the next generation.
As a Teacher
In this fulfilling role, you create engaging lesson plans, deliver lectures, and facilitate class discussions to impart knowledge on various literary works, language arts, and writing techniques.
Your expertise in literature allows you to analyze and interpret texts, sparking intellectual curiosity among your students. Beyond academics, you contribute to students’ personal growth and character development, preparing them for success in their future endeavors.
Benefits
- Job Security: The demand for good teachers is consistent, offering a stable and secure profession.
- Work-Life Balance: Benefit from balanced work hours and vacations that align with the school year.
- Rewarding Profession: Experience the joy and fulfillment that comes from students’ progress and success.
- Diverse Opportunities: Work in various settings like public, private schools, or specialized institutions, and teach different age groups.
- Lasting Impact: The knowledge and values you impart can have a lasting impact on your students’ lives.
Working Conditions
As a teacher, you will work long hours, both in and out of the classroom. You will be responsible for lesson planning, grading, and meeting with parents. You will also need to be able to handle difficult students and deal with stress. Class sizes may vary, affecting your workload and student interaction.
Further Studies
- Master’s Degree: A master’s degree in education can give you a competitive edge in the job market. A master’s degree will also allow you to specialize in a particular area of education, such as English education or literacy education.
- A Teaching License: A teaching license is required to teach in most public schools. The requirements for obtaining a teaching license vary from state to state, but most states require that you pass a state-approved teacher certification exam.
What Skills Make You a Strong Candidate
Teaching demands patience, adaptability, and strong communication skills to effectively convey lessons and manage diverse learning needs. You should be confident in your ability to create a positive learning environment and help students succeed.
Salary Range & Job Outlook
According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, the median pay for post-secondary teachers was $79,640 per year in 2021. The job outlook for teachers is expected to grow at a steady rate of 12% (2021 – 2031), with demand influenced by student enrollment and educational funding. Additionally, your passion for literature and dedication to fostering students’ love for learning will play a significant role in your long-term career success.
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2. Lexicographer
Literature graduates looking for a fascinating career path can find an excellent opportunity to work with language and words by becoming a Lexicographer.
As a Lexicographer
Your primary responsibility is to research, compile, and define words and their meanings for inclusion in dictionaries and language resources. You analyze language usage, etymology, and context to create accurate and comprehensive definitions that reflect the language’s evolution.
Benefits
- Language Expertise: Deep understanding of language and its usage due to the literature background.
- Dictionary Development: Opportunities to contribute to dictionary development and updates.
- International Influence: Contribute to international understanding and usage of language..
- Historical Study: Use literature knowledge to trace historical language changes.
- Interdisciplinary Work: Collaborate with linguists, translators, and other language professionals.
- Prestige: Be among the few experts on word origins and meanings.
- Flexibility: Often have the ability to work remotely or set flexible schedules.
Working Conditions
As a Lexicographer, your working conditions involve a research-oriented environment, where you spend time analyzing word usage, origins, and meanings. You may work in an office or have the option to work remotely. Collaboration with linguists, subject matter experts, and editorial teams is common to ensure accurate definitions.
You’ll use language tools, dictionaries, and software for research and analysis. Deadlines are typical, especially when updating dictionaries. Attention to detail is crucial, as precision is vital in defining and documenting words accurately.
Further Studies
- Certification in Lexicography: Lexicographer certifications, such as the LCP from the American Dialect Society, can demonstrate your skills to employers.
- Language Studies: Take courses on linguistics to understand language variations and usage, essential for lexicographers.
- Corpus Linguistics: Learn about corpus linguistics, which involves analyzing large databases of language to study word frequencies, collocations, and usage patterns.
- Lexicography Workshops and Conferences: Attend workshops and conferences conducted by lexicography experts to stay updated with the latest trends and developments in the field.
What Skills Make You a Strong Candidate
An ideal candidate for a lexicography position would have strong research skills to analyze word usage, origins, and meanings. Attention to detail is critical for crafting accurate definitions. Language expertise and linguistic knowledge are essential in documenting words precisely.
Proficiency in digital tools and technology aids in efficient data analysis and database management, while a passion for language and etymology drives dedication to the role.
Salary Range & Job Outlook
The annual average salary of Lexicographers is $77,875 in the United States. While we couldn’t find official data, you can expect a stable job outlook as the need for accurate language documentation and dictionary compilation remains relevant in the linguistic and educational fields.
3. Literary Agent
A Literary Agent is a professional who represents authors and their work to publishers. If you want to combine your love of books with your business acumen, then you should consider a career as a literary agent.
As a Literary Agent
As a Literary Agent, you will work with a variety of authors, from first-time novelists to established writers. You will also need to be able to negotiate contracts and provide guidance to your authors on all aspects of the publishing process.
You will be a guiding force for writers throughout the publishing process, from manuscript submissions to contract negotiations, and assist in developing their careers as successful authors.
Benefits
- Industry Knowledge: A literature degree provides knowledge about literary styles, genres, and historical context that’s valuable in evaluating manuscripts.
- Networking: Connect with writers, publishers, and other literary professionals.
- Influence: Play a key role in shaping literary trends and discovering new talent.
- Business Skills: Develop negotiation and contract management skills.
- Discovery: Be among the first to read potential bestsellers or critically acclaimed works.
Working Conditions
Your work conditions can be both exciting and challenging. The work environment is typically fast-paced and collaborative. You will work closely with authors, publishers, and other industry professionals to bring books to market. Networking with publishers and negotiating contracts are crucial aspects of the job.
Further Studies
- Publishing Courses: Take a publishing course or workshop to learn about editing, book marketing, and distribution.
- Certificate in Literary Agenting: A certificate in literary agents can help you develop your skills in evaluating manuscripts, negotiating contracts, and marketing books.
- Internship: An internship with a literary agency can give you hands-on experience in the field and help you network with professionals in the field.
- Contract Law: Learn contract law and negotiation techniques to secure favorable author-publisher deals.
- Copyright and Intellectual Property Rights: Gain expertise in copyright and IP law to protect authors’ works and advise them legally.
What Skills Make You a Strong Candidate
Strong Literary Agent candidates possess excellent communication, networking, and negotiation skills to represent authors effectively. They have a deep understanding of the publishing industry, copyright laws, and market trends, combined with a passion for literature and the ability to build strong relationships with authors and publishers.
Salary Range & Job Outlook
The median annual wage for literary agents is $71,121. The job outlook is stable, with opportunities available in traditional publishing houses, literary agencies, and as independent agents in the growing digital publishing landscape.
There are no official statistics available for this particular role. However, the BLS offers insight into the job outlook for similar professions. For instance; it predicts an 8% growth in employment for public relations specialists between 2020 and 2030, outpacing the average for all occupations.
4. Advertising Account Executive
A career in advertising as an account executive could be a good fit for you if you have a degree in literature and are looking for a dynamic and creative career.
As an Advertising Account Executive
As an Advertising Account Executive, your primary responsibility is to serve as the liaison between the advertising agency and its clients. You will work closely with clients to understand their marketing objectives, target audience, and brand identity.
Your role will involve strategizing, planning, and executing integrated advertising campaigns across various media channels, such as television, radio, print, digital platforms, and social media.
Benefits
- Diverse Experiences: Work with different industries and people, enriching life experiences.
- Sense of Accomplishment: Satisfaction from seeing your ideas become successful advertising campaigns.
- Creativity: Literature background provides unique perspectives to develop creative advertising strategies.
- Career Advancement: High-performing account executives can rise to leadership roles.
Working Conditions
As an Advertising Account Executive, you’ll work in a fast-paced, deadline-driven environment. Your tasks involve collaborating with clients and creative teams, attending meetings, and managing campaigns. Expect occasional overtime and high-pressure situations. The role offers creative expression, networking opportunities, and career growth, but it requires strong communication and multitasking skills.
Further Studies
- Digital Marketing Expertise: Acquire skills through courses in digital marketing.
- Data Analytics Proficiency: Enhance insights into consumer behavior and campaign performance.
- Certifications for Credibility: Obtain certifications from reputable organizations (e.g., Google Ads, HubSpot).
- Courses in Creative Writing or Copywriting: These courses can help you develop your writing skills, which are essential for creating effective advertising copy.
What Skills Make You a Strong Candidate
An ideal candidate for an Advertising Account Executive position should have excellent communication and interpersonal skills to build and maintain client relationships. They should also demonstrate creativity in developing effective advertising strategies and campaigns. Strong organizational and multitasking abilities are essential for managing multiple clients and projects simultaneously, while analytical skills would enable them to measure campaign success and make data-driven decisions.
Salary Range & Job Outlook
The median annual salary for Advertising Account Executives in the United States is $70,049. The job outlook for advertising account executives is predicted to grow by 10% from 2021 to 2031. This growth is being driven by the increasing demand for advertising services from businesses of all sizes. As businesses continue to compete for customers, they are investing more in advertising to reach their target audiences.
5. Content Strategist
If you have a literature degree, you may be well-suited for a career as a Content Strategist. A Content Strategist is a professional who plans and designs content for a company or organization.
As a Content Strategist
Your primary responsibility is to develop and execute content strategies that align with the brand’s goals and target audience. You work closely with marketing teams, writers, designers, and other stakeholders to create content that drives engagement, builds brand awareness, and fosters meaningful connections with customers.
Benefits
- Analytical Skills: A literature background strengthens critical thinking and content analysis skills.
- SEO Knowledge: Learn and apply SEO strategies to optimize content visibility.
- Influence: Shape brand image and public perception through strategic content.
- Problem-Solving: Improve problem-solving skills by tackling content challenges.
- Flexibility: Potentially work remotely, offering work-life balance.
Working Conditions
Content strategists typically work a standard 40-hour workweek, but they may also have to work occasional overtime hours, especially during deadlines. The job can be demanding, but it can also be flexible. Many content strategist jobs offer telecommuting or flextime options, which can help you balance your work and personal life.
For some roles, you may engage in client meetings and presentations to discuss strategies, results, and future plans. The role offers a chance to blend creativity with strategy and make a meaningful impact in shaping how brands communicate with their audiences.
Further Studies
- Content Strategy Certification: Enroll in content strategy certification programs to validate your expertise in content planning, audience analysis, and content marketing.
- Content Management Systems (CMS): Learn about popular CMS platforms for content strategy and marketing, such as WordPress, Drupal, and HubSpot.
- Branding and Marketing Courses: Learn branding and marketing to align content with brand identity and goals. Here are a few options you can consider
What Skills Make You a Strong Candidate
A strong Content Strategist candidate is skilled in content creation, strategic thinking, and audience analysis. They have knowledge of SEO, data analysis, and effective communication. They are creative, innovative, and adaptable, and they can navigate the digital landscape, meet deadlines, and collaborate seamlessly. Their tech savviness and social media expertise drive successful content distribution and engagement.
Salary Range & Job Outlook
The salary and job outlook for content strategists varies depending on experience, location, and industry. However, content strategists earn a good salary, with the median annual salary in the United States being $68,648.
The Bureau of Labor Statistics projects that the employment of writers and editors, which includes content strategists, will grow 4% from 2022 to 2030, about as fast as the average for all occupations. This is due to the increasing demand for content across websites, social media, and mobile devices.
6. Corporate Communications Specialist
A Corporate Communications Specialist offers an exciting opportunity to shape a company’s image and messaging. It’s another exciting career path for people with a literature degree.
As a Corporate Communications Specialist,
Your primary responsibility is to develop and execute strategic communication plans that enhance the organization’s reputation and engage stakeholders effectively. You’ll craft compelling press releases, articles, and internal communications that align with the company’s brand and values. Additionally, you may be involved in crisis management and public relations efforts to navigate challenges gracefully.
Benefits
- Advanced Writing Skills: A literature degree enhances the ability to craft clear, persuasive, and high-quality messages.
- Public Relations: Develop and maintain a positive image for the company.
- Crisis Management: Use communication skills to manage crises and maintain reputation.
- Satisfaction: Witness the impact of your work on the company’s reputation and success.
- Networking: Build valuable professional relationships across industries.
Working Conditions
As a Corporate Communications Specialist, you’ll thrive in a corporate setting or PR agency, collaborating with colleagues and stakeholders. Your day-to-day involves writing and editing content for different channels, including press releases, website copy, social media posts, and internal memos. You’ll often participate in meetings and brainstorming sessions to develop effective communication strategies.
Further Studies
- Certificate in Digital Marketing: Digital marketing, analytics, and social media are essential for effective corporate communication. A certificate course can help you learn these skills.
- Crisis Communication Training: Crisis communication courses can equip you to handle challenging situations and protect a company’s reputation.
- Public Speaking and Presentation Workshops: Improve public speaking and presentation skills with workshops or courses.
- Internships: They are a great way to gain experience and learn the ropes of the corporate communications industry.
What Skills Make You a Strong Candidate
To be a strong candidate for a Corporate Communications Specialist role, you need exceptional written and verbal communication skills, strategic thinking, creativity, media relations, crisis management abilities, stakeholder engagement, digital marketing proficiency, adaptability, attention to detail, collaboration, and project management capabilities.
Salary Range & Job Outlook
Corporate Communications Specialists earn an average annual salary of $61,124. According to projections from the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, there is a promising outlook for media and communications careers, with an estimated 14% growth anticipated from 2020 to 2030. This positive trend opens up new doors for professionals specializing in communication, media relations, and public relations, creating abundant opportunities in these fields.
7. Education Policy Analyst
An Education Policy Analyst role offers a promising career path for individuals with a literature degree and a passion for shaping educational systems.
As an Education Policy Analyst
You will work with policymakers, educators, and other stakeholders to research, analyze, and develop education policies. You will need to work with policymakers, educators, and other stakeholders to research, analyze, and develop education policies. You will also be responsible for a variety of administrative tasks, such as managing files, scheduling appointments, and responding to emails.
Benefits
- Critical Analysis: Use skills honed through literature studies to critically analyze education policies.
- Versatility: Work across different educational contexts, from local schools to federal agencies.
- Career Advancement: Potential for career growth in government, nonprofit, and consulting roles.
- Advocacy: Actively work to improve societal issues through education policy.
Working Conditions
As an Education Policy Analyst, you’ll work in research-driven environments, analyzing educational data and trends. Expect a mix of office-based work and meetings with policymakers. You will typically work a 40-hour week in an office setting.
Further Studies
- Master’s Degree in Education Policy: These programs typically cover education law, policy analysis, and research methods.
- Education Law and Ethics: Familiarize yourself with education law and ethical considerations to navigate complex policy issues responsibly.
- Internship: An internship with an education policy organization can give you hands-on experience in this field and help you network with professionals in the field.
What Skills Make You a Strong Candidate
Your role requires strong analytical skills, attention to detail, and the ability to communicate policy recommendations effectively to drive positive changes in education.
Salary Range & Job Outlook
The salary of an Education Policy Analyst can vary based on factors like experience, location, and employer. On average, they can earn around $65,562 per year.
While comprehensive data on the job outlook for education policy analysts aren’t available, the outlook for this role remains promising. The growing demand for experts who can enhance educational systems and policies contributes to the positive trajectory of this role.
8. Social Media Manager
A Social Media Manager is a fulfilling career for those with a literature degree and looking for career options.
As a Social Media Manager
You will create and manage social media content, including blog posts, articles, videos, and images. You will also develop and execute social media strategies, such as running contests and promotions and creating social media ads.
You will measure the success of your campaigns by tracking metrics such as website traffic, social media engagement, and lead generation. You will also work with other members of the marketing team to develop and execute social media campaigns.
Benefits
- Flexible Lifestyle: Benefit from a flexible working environment, with the potential for remote work.
- Versatile Skills Development: Develop a versatile skill set that can be applied to other creative and communication roles.
- Continuous Learning: Constantly learn and adapt to the ever-changing landscape of social media.
- Varied Exposure: Engage in diverse topics and industries, keeping work varied and interesting.
Working Conditions
As a Social Media Manager, you may enjoy certain flexibility in your working conditions. Many companies offer the option of remote work or flexible schedules, allowing you to manage social media campaigns from different locations and adapt to your preferred working hours. You will often be working on your own. You need to be able to be self-motivated and able to work independently.
Further Studies
- Digital Marketing Course: A Digital Marketing Certification Course will give you insights into online marketing strategies, social media advertising, and content creation tailored for different platforms.
- Social Media Management Certifications: Get certifications in social media management and performance metrics from reputable institutions.
- SEO Knowledge: Complement your social media expertise with search engine optimization (SEO) knowledge to improve content visibility.
What Skills Make You a Strong Candidate
A strong social media candidate has excellent communication and writing skills to create engaging content. They understand social media platforms, analytics, and trends, allowing them to plan and execute successful campaigns. Adaptability, creativity, and the ability to build online communities are essential for fostering meaningful connections with audiences and increasing brand visibility.
Salary Range & Job Outlook
On average, a social media manager earns $57,171. The job outlook for social media managers is positive, with increasing demand for professionals who can effectively manage online presence, engage audiences, and drive brand growth in the digital landscape. Bureau of Labor Statistics projects 10% job growth for advertising, promotions, and marketing professionals (2020-2030).
9. Paralegal
A Paralegal is a rewarding career path for individuals with a literature degree, offering opportunities in the legal field.
As a Paralegal
You work closely with lawyers, helping them prepare for cases, organize documents, and research relevant laws and regulations. Employers value your contribution to delivering efficient legal services and supporting clients through their legal proceedings. In the digital age, you play a key role in managing electronic evidence, ensuring its admissibility and relevance in court.
Benefits
- Career Progression: Gain valuable experience for potential career advancement in the legal field.
- Resilience Building: Strengthen personal resilience through navigating high-pressure situations.
- People Helping: Experience the satisfaction of assisting clients through difficult legal situations.
- Networking Opportunities: Build a broad network of professional connections.
Working Conditions
Paralegals typically work in an office setting, either in a law firm, corporate legal department, or government agency. They work full-time, Monday through Friday. Moreover, paralegals generally work under deadlines and may be required to handle sensitive or confidential information. This can be stressful at times.
Overall, the role offers valuable legal experience and the satisfaction of contributing to meaningful legal outcomes.
Further Studies
- Certification: Consider obtaining Paralegal certifications, such as the Certified Paralegal (CP) designation, to demonstrate your proficiency and commitment to the profession.
- Legal Research and Writing Courses: Improve your legal writing and research skills to draft legal documents effectively and conduct thorough case analysis.
- Legal Technology Training: Learn legal software and databases to manage documents and information efficiently.
- Ethics and Professional Responsibility: Paralegals must follow ethical guidelines in their work with clients and legal professionals.
What Skills Make You a Strong Candidate
As a strong Paralegal candidate, your research, communication, attention to detail, time management, problem-solving, organization, legal software knowledge, ethics, adaptability, and teamwork skills set you apart.
Salary Range & Job Outlook
According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), the median salary for paralegals is $56,320. The BLS projects a 14% increase in employment for Paralegals and legal assistants from 2020 to 2030, surpassing the average for all occupations. This growth is driven by the expanding complexities of the law and the rising demand for legal services.
10. Public Relations Specialist
A Public Relations Specialist is a professional who is responsible for managing the public image of an organization or individual. It offers exciting opportunities for individuals with a literature degree.
As a Public Relations Specialist
You shape public perception, manage brand image, and craft compelling narratives to engage audiences and enhance a company’s reputation. Your role involves developing PR strategies, writing press releases, and coordinating media interviews. You will need to manage social media accounts and create content that engages and informs the public. With strong writing and storytelling skills, you promote products, services, or causes and navigate crises.
Benefits
- Brand Building: Play a crucial role in shaping and maintaining a company’s image and reputation.
- Event Planning Experience: Gain experience in planning and executing events for brand promotion.
- Creative Expression: Enjoy the opportunity to express creativity in campaigns and communications.
- Personal Branding: Apply PR principles to build and manage your personal brand.
- Flexible Work Options: Benefit from potential opportunities for flexible or remote work.
Working Conditions
Public relations specialists typically work in office settings, but they may also travel to attend events or meet with clients. PR is known for its fast-paced nature, often involving tight deadlines and quick responses to media inquiries or crises. You’ll collaborate with diverse teams, and stay updated on communication trends.
Further Studies
- Certifications: Consider obtaining PR certifications, such as the Accredited in Public Relations (APR) designation, to showcase your expertise and commitment to the profession.
- Writing and Journalism Workshops: Improve your writing skills to craft compelling press releases, pitches, and other PR materials.
- Additional Certification: Consider a specialization certificate in a specific area of public relations, such as social media or crisis communications.
What Skills Make You a Strong Candidate
A strong Public Relations Specialist candidate possesses excellent communication, media relations, and crisis management skills. They are creative, adaptable, and proficient in digital and social media. With strong problem-solving abilities and a client-focused approach, they deliver impactful PR campaigns while managing multiple projects efficiently.
Salary Range & Job Outlook
The Bureau of Labor Statistics data suggest that PR specialists earn an annual median wage of $62,800. The job outlook for PR specialists is positive, with a projected growth rate of 8% from 2020 to 2030, which is faster than the average for all occupations.
As businesses and organizations continue to focus on their public image and brand reputation, the demand for skilled PR specialists remains steady.
11. Copywriter
A career as a Copywriter is an excellent fit for individuals with a literature degree, offering a creative outlet to craft persuasive and engaging content.
As a Copywriter
In this role, you write impactful copy for advertisements, websites, and promotional materials. You will research target audiences to understand their needs and wants. Your responsibilities also include creating marketing materials such as brochures, flyers, and website content. As a valued member of marketing teams, you contribute to the success of campaigns and help businesses thrive in a competitive market.
Benefits
- Creative Writing Proficiency: Exercise and improve creative writing skills while crafting compelling copy.
- Flexibility: Often enjoy flexible work schedules and potential opportunities for remote work.
- Skill Transferability: Develop transferable skills for other roles in communication, marketing, and journalism.
- Problem Solving: Enjoy the challenge of creating content that solves business problems.
Working Conditions
As a Copywriter, expect a creative yet demanding work environment. You’ll craft engaging content for various platforms, often under tight deadlines. Copywriters who work for large companies may have more structured work environments, while copywriters who work for small businesses may have more flexible work environments.
Further Studies
- Certifications and Courses: Obtaining specialized certifications will help you showcase your expertise and gain insight into effective marketing strategies to drive optimal results with your copy. Here are the recommended options:
What Skills Make You a Strong Candidate
Strong copywriting candidates have exceptional writing and grammar skills, creativity, research abilities, adaptability, marketing knowledge, SEO expertise, and a knack for meeting deadlines. These qualities enable them to craft compelling content for various audiences and industries.
Salary Range & Job Outlook
While the average salary may differ depending on the experience and location, copywriters earn an average annual salary of $53,972.
According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, the demand for writers and authors remains steady and is projected to grow by 4% from 2021 – 2031. Companies need skilled copywriters for website content, social media, email marketing, and other promotional materials, ensuring a promising job market for skilled candidates.
12. Grant Writer
For individuals with a literature degree seeking a fulfilling career, becoming a Grant Writer offers rewarding opportunities.
As a Grant Writer
Your role involves crafting persuasive grant proposals, seeking funding opportunities, and communicating the organization’s mission effectively. You collaborate with program managers, researchers, and executives to develop compelling project narratives. A successful Grant Writer helps organizations obtain vital resources to drive meaningful initiatives and positively impact communities and causes.
Benefits
- Fundraising Impact: Play a significant role in securing funds and supporting organizational goals.
- Career Progression: Acquire valuable experience for potential career advancement in nonprofit management or consulting.
- Purposeful Work: Find personal fulfillment in supporting nonprofit missions and community projects.
- Networking Growth: Develop personal relationships with a broad network of professionals.
- Team Collaboration: Work closely with diverse teams including finance, program staff, and administrators.
Working Conditions
Grant writers often work in office settings, whether for nonprofit organizations, research institutions, or government agencies. Some grant writers may have the flexibility to work remotely, especially for freelance or contract positions.
They spend significant time researching funding opportunities, project requirements, and grant guidelines. Grant writers collaborate with team members, write and edit persuasive proposals, and manage multiple projects simultaneously.
Further Studies
- Grant Writing Course: Obtain certifications specific to grant writing, demonstrating your expertise and commitment.
- Nonprofit Management Courses: Gain insight into the nonprofit sector’s operations, funding strategies, and project management.
- Fundraising and Development Courses: Learn about fundraising strategies and donor engagement to complement grant writing skills.
- Specialization Certificate: If you are interested in a specific area of grant writing, such as government grants or foundation grants, you may want to consider getting a specialization certificate.
What Skills Make You a Strong Candidate
Strong grant writing candidates should possess excellent writing, research, project management, attention to detail, creativity, communication, budgeting, collaboration, problem-solving skills, and a passion for making an impact.
Salary Range & Job Outlook
The average annual salary for grant writers in the United States is $45,006. The job outlook for grant writers is positive, with a projected growth rate of 4% from 2020 to 2030, indicating a steady demand for skilled professionals in the nonprofit and research sectors as organizations seek funding for their projects and initiatives.
13. Librarian
A literature degree can be a great foundation for a career in librarianship. You will play a vital role in promoting literacy, organizing information, and connecting people with knowledge.
As a Librarian
Your role involves managing library resources, assisting patrons in finding materials and curating collections to cater to diverse interests. You curate programs to foster reading habits, support research, and enhance digital literacy. With your expertise, you facilitate a nurturing environment where individuals of all ages discover the joy of reading and learning.
Benefits
- Broad Career Prospects: Possess the potential to work in various library settings such as academic, public, private, school, or specialty libraries.
- Digitization and Technological Involvement: Engage in digital library initiatives, e-books, online databases, and other tech-related aspects, enhancing your digital literacy skills.
- Curate Literary Exhibitions: Get the chance to create and curate exhibitions that display literary works and themes.
- Active Role in Community Services: Act as a liaison for library services, connecting people with the information they need and enriching community life.
Working Conditions
Many librarians work full-time on a regular schedule, which may include weekends and evenings, especially in public libraries. Libraries provide a quiet and structured environment, facilitating focused work and research.
You will be responsible for cataloging and organizing books, documents, digital resources, and other materials to ensure easy access for patrons. Additionally, you might also have to handle administrative tasks such as budget management, collection development, and library outreach programs.
Further Studies
- Master’s in Library and Information Science (MLIS): A master’s degree in MLIS is usually required for librarianship. It covers library management, information organization, and research methodologies.
- Additional Certifications: The following certifications can help you stand out as a librarian.
What Skills Make You a Strong Candidate
As a strong candidate for a librarian position, your skills should include information literacy, organization, communication, research, technology proficiency, adaptability, problem-solving, collaboration, a passion for learning, and excellent customer service.
Salary Range & Job Outlook
According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, librarians earn an average annual salary of $61,190. The BLS projects a 6% growth rate for this occupation from 2021 to 2030, which is about as fast as the average for all occupations.
While digital resources have changed how people access information, libraries remain essential for research, education, and community engagement, sustaining the demand for skilled librarians in various settings, including public, academic, and special libraries.
14. Tutor
For literature degree holders seeking a rewarding career, becoming a Tutor offers a fulfilling path, both in online and physical settings.
As a Tutor
Tutors provide personalized guidance and support to students of all ages, online or in person. They help students comprehend texts, refine writing skills, and excel in language arts. Tutors become trusted mentors, instilling confidence and helping students achieve academic success.
Benefits
- Flexibility: Enjoy the flexibility of setting your own hours, which can be especially beneficial if you’re pursuing other interests or responsibilities.
- Remote Opportunities: With the rise of online tutoring, have the opportunity to work from home or anywhere in the world.
- Skill Recognition: Receive recognition for your subject expertise and teaching skills.
- Personal Growth: The challenges encountered while tutoring can foster patience, empathy, and resilience.
- Lifelong Impact: Your guidance can have a lasting impact on a student’s academic journey and personal growth.
Working Conditions
Tutors can work in a variety of settings, including schools, libraries, and private homes. They can also work online. As a tutor, you’ll experience flexibility in your working schedule and location, whether you choose online or in-person tutoring. You’ll engage in one-on-one sessions, providing personalized support to diverse students.
Further Studies
- Teaching English as a Second Language (TESL): This degree program will teach you how to teach English to students who are not native speakers.
- Certified Tutoring Program: These programs teach tutoring basics: lesson plans, assessing progress, and dealing with difficult students.
- Online Tutoring Training: Acquire skills in online tutoring platforms, virtual teaching tools, and effective online communication.
What Skills Make You a Strong Candidate
Literature majors develop strong research skills, critical thinking skills, and communication skills. These skills are essential for tutors, who need to be able to find and evaluate information, help students understand complex concepts, and communicate effectively with students of all ages and backgrounds.
In addition to these skills, tutors also need to be patient, organized, and reliable. They need to be able to build rapport with students and create a positive learning environment.
Salary Range & Job Outlook
The average annual salary for tutors in the United States is $40,315. While we were unable to find official statistics for this specific position, you can expect a similar job outlook and growth rate of 12%, as projected by the Bureau of Labor Statistics for the teaching profession.
The demand for tutors in a variety of subjects and age groups is increasing as more students seek academic support and enrichment. Additionally, online tutoring platforms have also expanded the reach of tutoring services.
15. Editorial Assistant
An Editorial Assistant position is an excellent career choice for those with a literature degree and a passion for the written word.
As an Editorial Assistant
You will work with editors and writers to prepare manuscripts for publication. You will perform various tasks, such as proofreading, fact-checking, and copyediting. You may also be responsible for research, scheduling, and administrative tasks.
Benefits
- Diverse Skill Development: Develop a wide range of skills including proofreading, copyediting, project management, and communication.
- Career Advancement: This role often serves as a stepping stone to higher positions like editor, literary agent, or publishing manager.
- Close-knit Teams: Often work within small, supportive teams which can create a positive working environment.
- Close-knit Teams: Often work within small, supportive teams which can create a positive working environment.
Working Conditions
As an Editorial Assistant, you will typically work a 40-hour week in an office setting. You may have to work extra hours during peak times, but you will also have some flexibility in your schedule. However, if you choose to offer your service as a freelancer, the hour may vary depending on the project. You can expect diverse tasks in both cases, including editing, proofreading, and organizing editorial schedules.
Further Studies
- Editing and Proofreading Courses: Take courses that focus on advanced editing and proofreading techniques to refine your skills. Consider this free online course; Basics of Proofreading
- Certificate in Publishing: A certificate in publishing can help you learn about the different aspects of the publishing industry.
- Copyediting and Style Guides: Familiarize yourself with standard style guides (e.g., Chicago Manual of Style) to maintain consistency in publications.
What Skills Make You a Strong Candidate
To be successful as an Editorial Assistant, you should have strong writing and editing skills. You should also be able to work independently and as part of a team. You also need excellent research skills as you will have to gather information quickly and efficiently. You should also evaluate the accuracy and reliability of information sources.
Salary Range & Job Outlook
The average annual salary of an Editorial Assistant is $40,314. Regarding the job outlook, the demand for Editorial Assistants is expected to remain steady in the coming years.
While the publishing industry is changing due to digitalization, there is still a need for skilled professionals to support the editorial process and ensure the quality of publications.
With a literature degree and relevant experience, you can be a strong candidate in this field. However, we could find official statistics for this role.
Making the Right Career Choice
A literature degree opens up a wide range of possibilities beyond the traditional perception of careers in writing and academia. The versatility of this degree equips you with valuable skills such as critical thinking, effective communication, and creativity, which are highly sought after in a variety of industries.
From writing and editing to marketing, teaching, and corporate communications, literature graduates possess sought-after skills applicable to diverse industries. To land these rewarding roles, self-assessment, market research, and continuous skill development are essential.
As you begin your journey, use this article as your trusted guide to understanding the varied job options, necessary qualifications, and potential career development. Embrace the power of literature and language, and pursue a fulfilling and impactful career that aligns with your passions and strengths with confidence.
