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After Oswego

English and Creative Writing graduates excel in creative industries, education, and public and human services. Whether your plan is to pursue graduate school after Oswego or move directly into your career, you’ll be well prepared for a range of paths! 

English and Creative Writing majors become...

  • Writers
  • Editors
  • Publishers
  • Teachers
  • Librarians
  • Journalists
  • Web content creators and editors
  • Social workers
  • Lawyers
  • Technical and grant writers
  • Community organizers
  • Film and video game producers

Our alumni also pursue graduate degrees in writing, literature, publishing, education, library science, and law, among other fields.

Smiling woman with long brown hair

The English and Creative Writing Department was instrumental in becoming a published author. From the three-tier genre pathways to the staff constantly finding new ways to help me, I wouldn't be where I am today without it. 

Alexandria Wyckoff, Creative Writing Major and History Minor

Writer at The Publisher's Desk and author of The Pain Cycle (Kelsay Books, 2024)

Smiling woman with curly brown hair

That time spent speaking about my thoughts, formulating a thesis and defending it, gave way to everything I do in my career and personal life today.  It helped to advance my goal of creating spaces where folks are seen and respected even through disagreements.

Natasia Burgess, English Major and African American Studies Minor

Associate Director of Multicultural Initiatives, Caldwell University

Smiling man with beard in a grey sweater

As someone from a very rural, blue collar background, I had never given my creative aptitude a second thought as to a practical career, however, it was my time at SUNY Oswego and the mentorship of the creative writing faculty who inspired me to keep chopping away and endeavoring for more.

Cody Young, Creative Writing Major

Columbia University, MFA Film: Creative Producing

Man looking upwards in front of a street backdrop

The creative writing program offers students early exposure to real-world industry experiences, guided by the mentorship of the faculty. Opportunities to practice screenwriting, creative nonfiction, and digital storytelling during a study abroad trip to Europe, shaped me into the well-rounded storyteller I am today.

Mic-Anthony Haye, Journalism Major and Creative Writing Minor

Video Producer at Bloomberg

Career Services

Career Services, located in Marano 145, will help you explore, identify, and successfully compete for careers that match your personal and professional goals.

Career Coaches

Oswego has Career Coaches who specialize in areas of interest for English and Creative Writing majors. It's never too early to meet with them to start discussing your career path.

Creative Fields

If you want to pursue creative industries (writing, publishing, film, and more), reach out to Career Coach Megan Mazzoccone.

Make an appointment

Education, Public and Human Services

If you want to pursue a career in education, public and human services, reach out to Career Coach Kevin Bachmann.

Make an appointment

 

Professional Development in English and Creative Writing

Employers and graduate programs actively seek the skills English and Creative Writing majors develop. 

The National Association of Colleges and Employers identifies core competencies that employers seek, including communication, critical thinking, teamwork, and leadership. These are skills you'll develop inside and outside of class.

Professional development opportunities include:

Subnivean

Subnivean Publishing Experience

Oswego undergrads staff the acclaimed global literary magazine Subnivean. It was developed to equip our undergraduates with a firsthand publishing experience — and to amplify their voices in today's literary dialogue.

English Honor Society

Members of the English Honor Society develop professional skills through the One City, One Campus, One Community project. Interview local alumni, collaborate with peers, and present your work at a City Hall celebration. 

More Opportunities

Visit our Get Involved page for many more activities to build your resume and pursue your interests in English and Creative Writing.

Did you know?

 English and Creative Writing majors “are just as happy with their careers as engineering and business majors, according to a Gallup Alumni Survey” (US News and World Report). Study what you love while preparing for a rewarding career!

Contact Us

302 Marano Campus Center 

Office Hours: Monday-Friday from 8:00am-4:30pm

Laura Donnelly
Department Chair 
[email protected]

Mattie Wallace
Administrative Assistant
[email protected]