English Concentration in Liberal Arts
An English concentration focuses on a defined area within liberal arts. It typically builds on the program core and adds courses that deepen subject knowledge and applied skills in literature, writing, and language analysis.
Quick Answers
What is an English concentration in liberal arts?
An English concentration is a focused set of courses within a liberal arts program that emphasizes literature, writing, and language.
What do you typically study in this concentration?
Coursework varies by school, but most programs cover literary analysis, creative and professional writing, and critical theory.
Is this concentration available online?
Many schools offer this concentration online, but availability depends on degree level and start-term scheduling.
Back to Liberal Arts Concentrations
At a Glance
- Focus area: Literature, creative writing, language and rhetoric
- Key career: Writers and Authors – $72,270 median salary (BLS, May 2024)
- Related career: Training and Development Specialists – $65,850 median salary (BLS, May 2024)
- Job outlook: Writers and Authors +3.6% growth, 13,400 annual openings (2024-2034)
- Degree levels: Available as bachelor’s concentration or graduate specialization
For an overview of all degree paths, see the Liberal Arts Program Guide.
What you typically study
| Course Topic | What You Learn |
|---|---|
| Literary Analysis | Close reading, interpretation, and critical theory applied to texts |
| Creative Writing | Fiction, poetry, and nonfiction writing workshops |
| Rhetoric and Composition | Argumentation, persuasion, and professional writing |
| American or British Literature | Period-based surveys of major literary movements and authors |
| Linguistics | Language structure, usage, and sociolinguistic patterns |
| Senior Seminar or Thesis | Focused research project applying literary or writing methods |
Questions to ask before choosing this concentration
- How many courses are required versus elective options?
- Are there prerequisite courses for this track?
- Does the concentration include a capstone or applied project?
- Is the concentration available online and in your desired term?
How liberal arts concentrations compare
| Concentration | Key Career | Median Salary | Job Growth (2024-2034) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Communication | Market Research Analysts | $76,950 | +6.7% |
| English | Writers and Authors | $72,270 | +3.6% |
| History | Management Analysts | $101,190 | +8.8% |
| Philosophy | Management Analysts | $101,190 | +8.8% |
| Political Science | Market Research Analysts | $76,950 | +6.7% |
| Sociology | Human Resources Specialists | $72,910 | +6.2% |
Source: U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, Occupational Employment and Wage Statistics, May 2024.