What Can I do with My Degree?
Whether you are a World Literature major or enrolled in one of our language certificates, the thought of what career you might pursue post-graduation is likely one that has crossed your mind -- and probably a few times.
In World Languages and Literatures, we know students want support making sure their time here sets them up for what comes next. Career planning often comes with more questions than answers, and that's normal. Career planning can feel like a lot to figure out, and there's rarely one obvious path forward. We encourage an open-ended approach that explores the full range of possibilities available to you, drawing on the adaptability, cross-cultural fluency, and communication skills that a language and literature background builds 鈥� skills that employers consistently value across a wide range of fields.
To help you in your journey we've compiled some recent alumni statistics for you to explore, and hopefully feel inspired. Our goal is simple: to help you make the most of your time here, so you feel ready for whatever comes after graduation.
Alumni Career Data
Did you know?
World Literature is a teachable subject, recognized by the BC Teachers Federation. WL courses can also be used as an alternative to English for elementary school requirements in .
A department-wide alumni survey was conducted Spring 2026. Data findings reveal almost 45% of WLL graduates pursue careers in teaching.
Other notable career pathways include:
- Government and public services
- Administration and opperations
- Writing, journalism, editing and publishing
- Business, finance, and corporate
- Marketing and sales
- Arts, culture and entertainment
WLL Career Building Skills
Sixty-eight percent of WL alumni reported 'critical thinking' to be the most valuable WL skill they've applied to their careers. 'Writing skills', 'close-reading skills', and 'intercultural compentency' were all also highly valued. For language alumni, fifty-five percent reported 'language proficieny' as the number one skill acquired. 'cross-cultural communication' and 'intercultural compentancy' were both close seconds.
Further Education?
Firfty-eight percent of WLL alumni reported pursuing additional credentials after graduating from SFU. Sixty-six percent of those respondents reported completing a Master's degree while 40 percent completed an teaching program or similar education credential