Jobs directly related to your degree
- Lexicographer - writes, compiles and edits dictionaries. They monitor and record uses of language and use databases to interrogate a wide range of evidence. They consider both the meaning and usage of words and compile definitions in a structured manner. Lexicographers also edit, proofread and check the accuracy of their own and others' text, and perform editorial tasks.
- Speech and language therapist - works closely with infants, children and adults who have various levels of speech, communication or swallowing difficulties. The therapist assesses clients' needs and problems before developing individual treatment programmes to enable each client to improve as much as possible.
- English as a foreign language teacher - teaches English to people whose first language is not English, either in the UK or overseas in commercial schools or schools and institutions of further and higher education. Teaching takes place with students of all ages and levels. Classes are usually taught in English, even with beginners.
- Publishing copy-editor/proofreader - ensures that texts due for publication are well written, grammatically correct and accessible. They work on a range of publications, including books, journals, newspapers and IT-based resources. They may be required to correct basic spelling and typographical and grammatical errors (proofreading), or check facts and style consistency and undertake significant rewriting (copy-editing).
Jobs where your degree would be useful
- Translator - converts written material from one or more languages ('source languages') into the ‘target language’ (most commonly the translator’s mother tongue), ensuring that the translated version conveys the meaning of the original as clearly as possible. Translators usually need an excellent command of two or more languages.
- Social researcher - designs, formulates and conducts social research projects. Social researchers collect, manage and analyse information, using a variety of computer software packages to organise the data, which they present in oral or written form. A variety of methods, such as interviews, questionnaires and focus groups, are employed to investigate the views of sample populations on specific issues.
- Information officer - manages and develops the procurement, supply and distribution of information for an organisation or client, including electronic information, especially online databases and internet resources, as well as traditional library materials.
- Public librarian - acquires, organises, promotes and disseminates a wide range of resources to meet the diverse needs of the community.
- Editorial assistant - provides assistance in all stages of the publication of books, journals, magazines and a broad range of publicity materials. They support senior editorial staff with the administration of the commissioning, planning and production.
- Primary school teacher - develops schemes of work and lesson plans in line with curriculum objectives. Primary school teachers facilitate learning by establishing a relationship with pupils and by their organisation of learning resources and the classroom learning environment.
- Public relations officer - uses all forms of media and communication to build, maintain and manage the reputation of organisations ranging from public bodies or services to businesses and voluntary organisations.
Other options
You should thoroughly research the area of work you would like to go into and find out whether specific vocational or professional training is required. You may also wish to consider undertaking postgraduate study to develop your knowledge in a certain area.
It is also a good idea to try to get some work experience as this will help to boost your employability prospects. This may involve paid part-time work, work shadowing or volunteering. Work experience particularly relevant to a linguistics student includes:
Although some of the jobs listed here might not be first jobs for many graduates, they are among the many realistic possibilities with your degree, provided you can demonstrate you have the attributes employers are looking for. Bear in mind that it’s not just your degree discipline that determines your options. Remember that many graduate vacancies don't specify particular degree disciplines, so don't restrict your thinking to the jobs listed here. Look at your degree... what next? for informed advice on career planning and graduate employment, or login/register with My Prospects to find out what jobs would suit you, a helpful starting point for self-analysis.
Explore types of jobs to find out more about the above options and related jobs.
