English

    Some people love to read. In fact, the idea of reading and discussing books for three or four years is very attractive – if this describes you, perhaps a higher-level course in English is worth considering. There is more to an English degree than just reading whatever you like. English students have to analyse and criticise (constructively) the texts they read, and also have to write their own thoughtful and perceptive essays and papers. English courses are not just for those who want to write for a living. They give students valuable skills that are highly prized in the workplace – the ability to organise ideas, materials and people, to think creatively and present persuasive arguments. The study of literature and language also disciplines the mind and teaches valuable skills in data collection, critical thinking and communication. Education   There are a number of different options available for people interested in studying English at higher level. Course titles include English, English Literature, English Studies and English & Cultural Studies. A common approach is to take English along with another arts subject such as Irish, Sociology or History. The CAO points required range from 300 to over 500, depending on the course and institution. English literature courses can cover a broad range of different texts from Chaucer and Shakespeare to Roddy Doyle and Seamus Heaney. Most English courses are also concerned with the history and practice of writing in English; students learn how texts are constructed and how they operate, and study the cultural and historical contexts within which they were written. English programmes aim to develop a critical consciousness and to foster an awareness of critical and cultural theory. Many English courses at higher level allow for specialisation and students can end up writing essays and theses on subjects ranging from the influence of fairies in 17th century English to feminism in 20th century America. A relatively high proportion of English students go on to postgraduate study and research. After Qualification   There is no single career path for English graduates. Students who have taken another subject alongside English can decide to go that direction (e.g., Psychology, Economics). Many English graduates move into careers such as writing, journalism, research, teaching, publishing, public relations, the civil service and the media. Others decide to take postgraduate or professional qualifications in areas such as business and law. The Work   Given the immensely varied careers that English graduates choose it is difficult to describe a typical working day. However, most put into practice a combination of the clear, concise writing, creative thinking, problem solving and investigative research skills they learned during their courses – whether working as a journalist, solicitor, teacher, marketing professional, proofreader or poet. Personal Qualities & Work Environment   It is difficult to generalise but most English graduates are generally more likely to tend towards careers where they use critical and writing skills. English students need excellent writing and analytical skills. A certain amount of creativity and imagination is also useful. Money   English degrees don’t offer specialised training for a career, compared to courses covering law or engineering. Therefore, graduates sometimes have to work for a while before they find a niche that suits them. Journalists may begin as freelance writers or work for local papers – a typical starting salary is €20,000. Post-primary teachers start on around €28,800. In both cases, salaries rise as careers progress with head teachers and experienced journalists both making around €60,000 a year. Jargon   Text: A literary work or cultural product regarded as a subject for critical analysis Modernism: The use of innovative forms of expression that distinguish many of the 20th century’s most famous literary and artistic works Discourse: A conversation or formal, lengthy discussion of a subject, either written or spoken