Skip to content
Humanities & Culture

Department of English

Robert Herjavec is not only a business superstar, he's also an English Studies grad. 

Robert Herjavec (B.A., 1984) is a business owner and an investor on the CBC program Dragon’s Den. He credits the communication skills he gained while completing his English degree with helping ensure his success as head of one of Canada’s fastest-growing technology companies. See more about Robert here.

What do employers value about Department of English graduates?

Within two years of graduation, 85% of graduates who are in the labour market are employed with a median salary of $47,540/year upon entering the workforce. 71% pursue further post-secondary studies. (Source: StatsCan Career Tool)

your degree after graduation

University of Toronto English alumni most frequently apply their writing and analysis in these industries: 

  • Education
  • Research
  • Media and Communication
  • Sales
  • Operations
  • Healthcare Services
  • Consulting
  • Information Technology
  • Finance
  • Marketing
  • Publishing
  • Government and Public Policy
     

graduate or professional school

An English degree equips students with the critical thinking and problem solving skills for a variety of academic next steps, including graduate programs in:

  • English
  • Education
  • Law
  • Library and Archival Studies
  • Media Studies
  • Journalism
  • Publishing
  • Public Policy
  • Business Administration
  • Creative Writing
     

exploring opportunities while you're a student

Learn About yourself

Register for the Job Shadowing Program to connect with professionals in your career area of interest. During a half or full day job shadowing placement, you’ll begin to clarify your goals and better understand your career options.

Attend an In the Field program to meet professionals working in a variety of occupations within one organization.

Find a Work-Study Position and gain paid, on-campus positions that provide you with an opportunity to deepen your knowledge, strengthen your skills and explore how your academic studies translate to career possibilities.

Attend a career workshop or small group conversation to explore career possibilities, understand your skills, and plan for your career or further education. Visit clnx.utoronto.ca for more information.

Connect with Alumni

The Backpack to Briefcase (b2B) program provides opportunities for students and recent graduates, to meet and mingle with alumni, faculty, staff and fellow students from their department or academic unit. Alumni who volunteer for b2B Industry Nights, Career Panels, Speed Networking events and Mentorship Meals, offer guidance, career advice and encouragement to A&S students. By taking part in b2B, students will learn about the array of career possibilities available to them as A&S degree recipients.  

Explore Your Options

While you’re a student, get the support and make the connections you need to transition into your dream career.

Talk to your professors to better understand and prioritize your opportunities in the context of your discipline. 

Take advantage of social events and a mentorship program coordinated by the English Students’ Union (ESU).

Explore opportunities to write for campus newspapers and submit to student journals.

Attend a graduate school seminar offered by the chair of the English department to learn about your options after graduation.