Programs in English composition and writing teach people how to use words correctly to express ideas. Students learn vocabulary, grammar, and spelling. They learn how to write effective sentences, paragraphs, and essays.

People with a degree in English composition and writing often have an advantage in the workplace. This is because they bring strong skills in writing, editing, and proofreading. Graduates of these programs can express ideas clearly and creatively. They can apply critical thinking, write effective reports, and share ideas easily with others. Employers appreciate graduates with these skills.

In English composition and writing programs, you study exactly that – composition and writing. Yet what many people forget is that learning to write also means learning to read. This doesn't mean sounding out words, but instead, how to truly understand what the author is trying to say. Reading critically also means being able to find holes in the author's argument. And of course, you take courses on how to write different kinds of essays, from persuasive to comparison/contrast to even satire. You learn how to research and use logic and evidence to support your arguments. You also learn how to respond to edits and suggestions. In many programs, you also study different theories about the writing process as well as how to teach writing to others.

With a four-year degree, you may qualify for graduate study in fields such as business, community service, education, and journalism. You might also go on to study human resources, law, public administration, and social work. Furthermore, you may also enter a fifth-year master's degree program in teacher education. Many people choose to continue studying in English composition and writing. People with graduate degrees in this field usually work as professors and instructors of writing at the college level.

Many colleges and universities offer bachelor's, master's, and doctoral degrees in English. Most two-year colleges offer the first two years of study. Students can often transfer these credits to a four-year school. Master's degrees typically take five or six years of full-time study after high school. Doctoral degree programs typically take three to five years after the master's degree.

English composition and writing majors may choose among the following concentrations:

• Creative Writing
• Folklore
• Literary Criticism
• Literature of Ethnic Minorities
• Playwriting and Screenwriting
• Poetry
• Technical Writing