Program Overview
Literature prepares us to understand and explore how we think, feel, and see the world; what we are and what we want to be, for ourselves and in relation to others. Literature is crucial for freedom and its manyfold expressions, as seen in multiple fields for which the exploration and critical analysis of effective and transformational thought, feeling and communication is key. They include careers in the teaching sector at its multiple levels, from primary school to college; the new technologies sector, such as game design and discourse and data analysis; governmental and non-profit work such as in municipalities, public service, and foundations; publishing and journalism; publicity and marketing in the old and new media contexts, and many more.
- Literature
- Major
- Minor
- 3 year pathway
- 4+1 Bachelors & Masters
- Humanities
Student Story: Arabella
Arabella is a fourth-year student double majoring in Literature with a Creative Writing Concentration in Poetry and History of Art and Visual Culture with a concentration in Curation, Heritage, and Museums. Through the Humanities EXCEL program, Arabella is working as an Educational Programs Assistant with the Santa Cruz Poetry Project. The internship has helped Arabella apply the theories she’s learned in class to a real-life work experience, according to Arabella. “Working with the Santa Cruz Poetry Project has allowed me to practice teaching which is something I’m passionate about,” says Arabella. “Through facilitating workshops and engaging with participants, I’m able to put my academic knowledge into action, particularly around the ways poetry can foster self-expression and provide a platform for underrepresented voices.”
Career Outcomes
After graduation, students with degrees in literature typically begin careers in publishing across various media; in teaching at all levels; in public service, law, and international relations. Many also go on to graduate school. Whatever path they choose, their powers of expression and analysis are highly prized. Please visit UCSC Career Success for career-related information associated with the literature major, including information on the following career paths:
- Advertising
- Civil service
- Communications
- Editing
- Journalism
- Law
- Library science
- Literary criticism
- Literary research
- Professional writing
- Publishing
- Teaching
- Translation
Program Contact
