English at NIU
Bachelor of Arts or Bachelor of Science
Use writing to better understand the world.
People have relied on the written word to communicate for thousands of years. From clay tablets to the printing press and AI-generated content, writing has shaped our lives and society. Whether you want to explore literature, teach English or develop your own writing ability, majoring in English will help you gain new skills and reach your goals.
I'm majoring in English, specifically in writing. I already had a knack for putting words to the page, so I wanted to refine that skill into something that I can use throughout my life.
What Can I Do With an English Degree From NIU?
From complex government units to start-up businesses, organizations need employees who can analyze information and connect with audiences. The communication and critical-thinking abilities you'll gain will prepare you to excel in a range of roles and settings, including graduate study.
Top skills reported by alumni:
- Editing
- Leadership
- Management
- Marketing
- Social media
- Strategic planning
Top fields alumni work in:
- Education
- Government
- Health care
- Information technology
- Media
- Nonprofit
Other Programs to Consider
Career Potential for NIU English Majors
Average mid-career salary:
$83,870
Top employers include:
- Abbvie
- Amazon
- Career Education Corporation
- Chicago Public Schools
- CVS Health
- DeVry Education Group
Job titles include:
- Account executive
- English teacher
- Marketing manager
- Owner
- Project manager
- Technical writer
Source: Steppingblocks, 2023
What to Expect as an English Major at NIU
Our program allows you to focus on the area of English that interests you most. As you interpret, synthesize and create your own creative and critical works, you’ll choose an emphasis to guide your studies:
- Secondary licensure in English language arts
- Studies in literature, language and film
- Studies in writing
Related Websites
How We’ll Help You Succeed
Apply for free and we’ll automatically consider you for a renewable merit scholarship.
Earn your bachelor’s degree fast with our affordable tuition and fees. Any credit hours you take over 12 are free (per semester).
Prepare to thrive after graduation with personalized support from Career Services.
With our truth-in-tuition policy, you’ll get the same fixed tuition rate for four continuous years, whether you live in Illinois or another state.
Apply to NIU
First-year Students
(Freshman)
High School GPA
3.0 or higher?
You're guaranteed general NIU admission.
ACT/SAT SCORES
Not considered.
We think your high school GPA is a better predictor of your success.
Transfer Students
ALL COLLEGES GPA
2.0 or higher?
You're guaranteed general NIU admission.
ALL COLLEGES GPA
3.0 or higher?
You're guaranteed a
renewable merit scholarship.