5 Best Places to Study Abroad for English Majors

English majors study abroad too! There's an opportunity for every student to learn overseas and receive course credits while doing it. You'll study the world's most significant works and impactful authors, perhaps in the destination where masterpieces were produced.

Get lost in a good book while studying English abroad.

Some may think that English majors have limited options, but this is not true! What may seem like an experience that can only benefit a specific major is actually an excellent opportunity for an English major. It's all about knowing what your options are—and the best place to start with options is with the best places to study abroad for English majors!

Can I study abroad as an English major?

Yes, you can study abroad as an English major. Whether it be a study abroad opportunity in another field or a relevant program that counts towards your graduation credits, you will always have opportunities to study abroad as an English major.

If you're looking for an opportunity abroad solely for the experience, consider studying abroad as an elective course unrelated to your major but significant to your other interests. This way, you get a culturally inspiring experience and return home with new knowledge.

Whether a full degree or a semester, English majors have many options for education abroad.

Your other option would be to study abroad in a relevant program that can count towards graduation. You can speak with your academic advisor to determine which classes you will need to graduate, and then talk with your study abroad advisor to find programs that can be applied as transfer credits for graduation.

5 best places to study abroad for English majors

1. England

• Why: England is a young writer's paradise and one of many English majors' most desirable study abroad destinations. Studying abroad in England will bring you closer to some of the most infamous writers in history; Shakespeare, Dickens, Austen, and Orwell, to name a few. Live through the historical works literature while gaining a few course credits towards graduation.
• When: The best time of year to travel is during the summer months, from June to August, making this the perfect summer study abroad trip.

2. United States

• Why: The United States is an English speaking country with a vast amount of influential cities to pick from. With a booming immigrant population, and as the quintessential melting pot of the 20th century, it’s the perfect place for exposure to various cultures in one location. Follow in the footsteps of Walt Whitman, Toni Morrison, Emily Dickinson, Edgar Allen Poe, and so many other greats.
• When: You'll enjoy the best conditions when traveling from May to October, when the weather is the warmest and most comfortable.

3. Ireland

Study English literature while admiring the stunning Emerald Isle.

• Why: Do you have a passion for Irish writers, like Oscar Wilde or Bram Stoker? If so, Ireland would be a great destination to explore. Although the native language isn't English (it’s Gaelic!), English became widely dominant during the 19th century. A bonus is that Ireland's location is a reasonably quick trip away from the U.K. and Europe. You could experience multiple countries during your study abroad experience if time permits.
• When: If you like cool weather, this is the study abroad destination for you. With a high temperature of 66°F in July, you can rock your fall fashion throughout your experience.

4. Australia

• Why: The land down under is an exciting place to explore any time of the year due to its location. You will find the historic State Library of Victoria, an English major's playground, in the city of Melbourne. If affordability is your concern, consider obtaining a work visa while you study abroad. You can work 40 hours every two weeks on a student visa. Just imagine studying and working in Australia! The experience can open you to a new level of creativity and cultural awareness.
• When: You can expect year-round sunshine, but spring and autumn months are the best time to visit Australia.

5. Italy

Find your inspiration and become the next great writer of your generation.

• Why: It wouldn't be difficult to find inspiration in the cities of Venice, Rome, or Florence. The sights and history in this country can inspire the imagination of any English major. Italy is home to famous writers such as Andrea Camilleri, Dante Alighieri, and Oriana Fallaci, whose works you could study in their homeland. Whether sailing the canals in Venice, falling in love with Rome's classical architecture, or admiring the Renaissance art in Florence, Italy may just inspire your own magnum opus.
• When: The best time to visit Italy is during spring (March-May) and autumn (September-November) when the temperatures are comfortable and there are fewer crowds.

Talk to our free Online Advisor and get matched with 5 English study abroad programs

4 study abroad programs for English majors

1. ISA Study Abroad in London, England

• Why: England is the starting place for so many famous writers. Studying literature in England will expose you to various historical museums, castles, and monuments that can serve as inspiration for writing. Your experience in this program will be a memorable one!
• Travel on the weekends and attend programs and events hosted by the school. Participate in fantastic excursions, such as visiting Shakespeare’s home at Stratford Upon Avon, Canterbury Cathedral from the Canterbury Tales, Stonehenge, Bath, and more.
• Where: London, England
• Read ISA reviews

2. IES Abroad Sydney DE – University of New South Wales

• Why: Warm weather is always a plus, especially when it's sunny year-round. Australia is one of the best places to study abroad for English majors—especially if you’re an animal lover on the side! Plus, with a varied landscape, there’s tons to explore.
• You'll be excited to write about your adventures in the Outback with kangaroos, desert explorations, and beach days. During this program, you will meet students from all over the world while gaining a larger network and new friendships.
• Where: Sydney, Australia
• Read IES Abroad reviews

3. USAC IRELAND: Cork - Full Curriculum

• Why: If you study English literature abroad in Cork, you will be in one of the most desirable travel locations. While studying in Cork, you can attend any of the numerous world-renowned universities while enjoying fun activities such as hiking, swimming, climbing, or rugby. This experience will allow you to have a good balance of reading, learning, and exploration!
• Where: Cork, Ireland
• Read USAC reviews

4. London History & Literature Program

• Why: Participate in an unforgettable experience with the London History and Literature Program at Boston University. Courses include intriguing and diverse subjects that will challenge your knowledge of English literature. Study subjects outside of the classroom with field trips throughout London.
• Students participate in a research seminar with access to the Oxford Dictionary of National Biography, the London Library, and the National Archives at Kew. On top of that, the university is in a beautiful location near the Victoria & Albert Museum, the Natural History Museum, Hyde Park, and Royal Albert Hall.
• Where: London, England
• Read Boston University reviews

Compare these programs side-by-side for FREE with MyGoAbroad

Study abroad as an English major and boost your academic career!

From England to Australia, you’ll excel as an English major abroad.

With so many quality study abroad programs, you can pick one that best fits what you’re looking for when studying abroad as an English major! Ireland, the UK, Australia, Canada, and even Italy are just a few destinations to choose from. Remember, whether the opportunity counts as a class credit towards graduation or simply a growth experience abroad, you will enjoy the opportunity to learn.

Explore ALL English Study Abroad Programs on GoAbroad.com