Alternative Student Futures
A degree in literary studies can, though, lead to other, less obvious futures – for example:
Support
Here in the Department of English Literature & Creative Writing, led by our own Careers Tutor, we are always seeking to support our students as they move toward many kinds of careers. For example, we offer various first-year mini-modules that explore the relationship between literature and the world of work; we offer a series of literature-specific careers workshops drawing on alumni; we have an annual study day in the Wordsworth Museum in The Lakes focussing on curatorial and archival work; and offer work placement modules based in schools or the cultural and heritage industries.
Statistics
Finally, below are some statistics comparing graduate outcomes for students in S.H.A.P.E. subjects (i.e. Social Sciences, Humanities and the Arts for People and Economy -- which includes English) with student in STEM subjects (Science Engineering and Medicine).
• In 2017, 88% of SHAPE graduates were employed, whilst 89% of STEM graduates were employed.
--British Academy, “Qualified for the Future,” 2020.
• SHAPE graduates comprise 55% of global leaders (Prime Ministers etc) and 58% of FTSE company execs.
British Academy, “Understanding Humanities Career Paths,” 2019
• Average starting salaries: English Literature, £23,000 -- versus, say, Biological Sciences, £23,489; Business and Management Studies, £25,000; Chemistry, £25
--Complete University Guide, 2021
• Annual average wage-growth: English is joint 4th at 6.2%, versus say Physics (6th) at 5.9%.
--British Academy Report, “Qualified for the Future,” 2020.