If I Want A Career As A Writer, What Major Should I Choose In College?
Feb.19, 2010 in
College Selection
I recently discovered, after 6 years of college as an undergraduate art major, that I would rather enjoy a career as a writer. What should my major be now? Journalism or English?
February 19th, 2010 at 1:24 pm
Journalism and creative writing both require extensive English composition training. With six years of college under your belt I suggest finishing your current major and graduate. Then if you want additional schooling go for it.
February 19th, 2010 at 5:08 pm
It is extremely difficult to make a living as a writer. Journalism is probably the more job-oriented major, but even with that you’ll have a tough time in today’s market. Magazines and newspapers aren’t doing so well against the internet and journalists are becoming slightly obsolete. It would be poor timing for that job choice, and it was never a very secure field to begin with. An art major is actually more marketable, especially if you have some technical skills and can work with digital graphics. Be smart, stop wasting time and finish the art major. You can try some freelance writing afterward if you really think you have the drive and determination (and desire) to eke out a living that way.
February 19th, 2010 at 10:35 pm
Finish your major and look for jobs or internships in journalism anyway. Sometimes all people care about is if you have a degree- and most importantly, talent. You could always take creative writing classes as a non-degree student or go back and get a second degree later on.
February 20th, 2010 at 2:24 am
Before you do this, do consider that very few writers have a degree in English, journalism or creative writing. Most have a degree or life experience that makes them an expert on the subject they are writing about.
February 20th, 2010 at 4:43 am
You need to graduate, as soon as possible, so take ANY program that can help you finish up this degree already, & start writing!
February 20th, 2010 at 11:37 am
Finish in art. Just get a degree. Start writing now. If you can get a degree in Fine arts easier, do so.