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Elizabeth
Student
Fairport, New York
1
Question
Updated
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What could the path to becoming an English professor look like?
I want to study English and become a professor, but I only have a rough idea of what that process looks like. I know I'd need to do graduate work and go through training to teach, but I'm hoping to learn a little more about the specifics. Thanks!
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2 answers
Vianne Phan
Youth Development Teacher
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Answers
San Diego, California
Updated
Vianne’s Answer
Becoming an English professor is a journey that takes time but is quite clear. It's great that you're thinking about it now. You usually start with a bachelor's degree in English or a similar field, focusing on literature, writing, and research. Building strong writing skills and connecting with professors during this time is helpful. Working as a teaching assistant, tutor, or in a writing center can also be beneficial when applying to grad school.
Most people then pursue a PhD in English, especially if they want to teach at a university. Some may get a master’s degree first, but many PhD programs accept students directly from undergrad or include a master's as part of the program. A PhD takes about 5 to 7 years and involves classes, teaching, exams, and writing a dissertation. During this time, you learn to be both a researcher and a teacher, so publishing papers and gaining teaching experience are important.
After earning your PhD, you usually apply for academic jobs, often starting as a visiting professor, lecturer, or assistant professor. The job market can be tough, so being flexible and persistent is key. There are also options at teaching-focused colleges, community colleges, and writing programs, which might be less focused on research. If you love English, teaching, and research, this path can be challenging but very rewarding if it matches your long-term goals.
Most people then pursue a PhD in English, especially if they want to teach at a university. Some may get a master’s degree first, but many PhD programs accept students directly from undergrad or include a master's as part of the program. A PhD takes about 5 to 7 years and involves classes, teaching, exams, and writing a dissertation. During this time, you learn to be both a researcher and a teacher, so publishing papers and gaining teaching experience are important.
After earning your PhD, you usually apply for academic jobs, often starting as a visiting professor, lecturer, or assistant professor. The job market can be tough, so being flexible and persistent is key. There are also options at teaching-focused colleges, community colleges, and writing programs, which might be less focused on research. If you love English, teaching, and research, this path can be challenging but very rewarding if it matches your long-term goals.
Sneha Deb
Tech Consultant
194
Answers
Edison, New Jersey
Updated
Sneha’s Answer
Hey Elizabeth! The path to becoming an English professor usually starts with earning a bachelor's degree in English or a related field, followed by a master's and then a PhD if you want to teach at the college level. Along the way, you can gain experience through tutoring, teaching assistantships, and research opportunities. It’s a journey that takes time and dedication, but if you love literature, writing, and helping others grow, it’s incredibly rewarding. Stay passionate, stay curious, and remember that each step forward is preparing you to make a real impact in the classroom. You don’t have to have it all figured out now—what matters is that you’re starting with a clear purpose.