English for a Career in Nonprofit or Arts Administration

English majors learn important skills: They learn to think analytical and critically; they learn to write and communicate well; and they learn to use logic and reason to solve problems and to take positions.

In addition, because English majors focus on reading, analyzing, and writing about a diverse range of human experiences, they develop empathy, a desire to make the world a better place, an awareness of larger social issues, and a sense of how artistic expression can shape and enhance our lives.

Nonprofits are organizations that serve the common good. This would include charitable organizations and also includes advocacy groups, trade associations, and private foundations.

Nonprofits hire people to do all the same jobs as for-profit businesses do, but they also need people to raise funds, write grants, coordinate volunteers, and to work as community organizers. Workers in this field need strong organizational, interpersonal, communication and problem solving skills. English majors have the opportunity to develop and to hone all of these important qualifications.

Arts Administration or Arts Management careers require qualifications similar to those required by work in nonprofits. In addition, those who work for museums, community arts centers, theatres, or dance companies often find themselves juggling many tasks that require strong writing and strong organizational skills. They may find themselves supervising and recruiting staff or volunteers, overseeing budgets, planning events, writing grant proposals, and promoting their organizations.

Connect With an English Advisor

If you are interested in exploring how to bring together an English major with a career in Nonprofits or Arts Administration, contact Lori Robison to serve as your professional advisor. Professor Robison can help you in a variety of ways: recommending courses that contribute to work in these fields; locating internships and career opportunities; and giving you feedback as you put together a resume and application letter.

UND's Department of English has strong ties to regional nonprofits and arts groups, and Professor Robison will be happy to put you in touch with these organizations. In addition,  UND's Nonprofit Leadership Program offers a minor and Certificate.