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Focusing on the study and interpretation of literary texts, bachelor's in English programs produce strong readers, writers, and thinkers. A highly versatile academic major, English prepares graduates for careers in diverse industries, including education, journalism, publishing, and business.
English majors commonly pursue careers related to writing and editing. The Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) reports that writers and authors earn an annual median salary of $67,120, while editors earn an annual median salary of $63,400.
This page ranks the best online bachelor's in English programs. It also includes other important information for prospective students, such as typical courses and scholarship opportunities for English majors.
AffordableCollegesOnline.org is an advertising-supported site. Featured or trusted partner programs and all school search, finder, or match results are for schools that compensate us. This compensation does not influence our school rankings, resource guides, or other editorially-independent information published on this site.
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Frequently Asked Questions About Bachelor's in English Programs
What kinds of jobs can you get with a degree in English?
A bachelor's in English degree prepares graduates to work in fields including writing, publishing, journalism, education, and advertising. Students also commonly pursue graduate study.
How long does it take to get an English degree?
A bachelor's in English typically takes four years of full-time study to complete. However, some schools offer accelerated programs that students can complete faster.
Is English a BA or BS?
Most bachelor's in English programs confer a BA, though some technical writing and communications programs may confer a BS.
How much does an online degree cost?
According to U.S. News and World Report, the average online bachelor's degree costs $38,496-$60,593. However, costs vary widely by factors like school, enrollment status, and location.
Why Get a Degree in English?
A bachelor's in English builds broad knowledge of American and British literature while teaching students how to interpret and analyze literary texts. Students gain writing, research, communication, and critical thinking skills. They also learn to form, critique, and defend complex arguments about literature.
Graduates can pursue roles in fields such as writing, editing, journalism, and education. An English degree also prepares students for graduate study in many academic fields, including the humanities and business.
Many colleges offer affordable bachelor's in English degrees online, which often give students the flexibility to balance their studies with personal and professional obligations.
Tuition rates for bachelor's in English programs vary by factors like school, delivery format, and enrollment status. Public schools typically offer lower tuition rates than private schools, and online programs typically offer lower tuition rates than on-campus programs. Accelerated programs enable students to complete their degree faster, potentially saving money on tuition. Conversely, part-time programs take longer to complete and may cost more.
The National Center for Education Statistics reports that students at public schools pay an average tuition rate of $17,797 per year. Students at private schools pay an average tuition rate of $46,014 per year.
Pursuing a bachelor's in English online can often save students money. For example, online students save on many of the expenses that on-campus students incur, such as housing and commuting costs. Additionally, many schools offer tuition discounts to online students.
Calculating the Cost of a College Degree
Our college affordability calculator helps students budget for college by factoring in tuition expenses, expected financial aid, cost of living, and other relevant financial details. Prospective students can enter this information to determine how much they can afford to pay for an online bachelor's in English program.
Break down your current financial situation, and receive a college tuition estimate you can afford to pay.
A highly versatile major, English prepares graduates for a variety of career paths. English majors commonly earn teaching certification and pursue careers as high school teachers, earning a median annual salary of $62,870. Many graduates also work as writers and authors, earning an annual median salary of $67,120. English majors may also pursue jobs as technical writers and make an annual median salary of $74,650.
Earning advanced education can also help English majors advance to higher-paying careers. Some English majors go on to earn a graduate degree, preparing them to teach at the college level. These postsecondary teachers make an annual median salary of $80,790.
Outside of writing and education, English majors can also pursue careers in fields such as public relations and advertising. Public relations specialists earn an annual median salary of $62,810, while advertising managers make a median salary of $141,490 annually.
Courses in English
A bachelor's in English introduces students to the study of writing and literature, emphasizing both literary history and strategies for interpreting literary texts. Most programs focus primarily on British and American literature, though electives frequently cover topics in world literature. Other key courses focus on research, literary criticism, and literary theory.
Some English bachelor's degrees offer concentrations in areas such as creative writing and technical writing. Many English programs require candidates to complete a thesis, which may take the form of a scholarly research paper or a lengthy creative writing project.
Courses vary by program, but this list highlights three courses commonly found in bachelor's in English programs.
American Literature in the 20th Century
The course offers an overview of major literary developments in the 20th century United States. Students may examine regional movements, such as Southern literature and the Harlem Renaissance, along with larger trends, such as modernism and postmodernism.
Survey of African American Literature
The class focuses on African American literature from the colonial era through the present. Students explore the unique development of African American fiction and poetry in relation to slavery, the vernacular tradition, and other cultural factors. Coursework commonly covers major authors such as Ralph Ellison, James Baldwin, and Toni Morrison.
Introduction to Creative Writing - Fiction
Many English programs offer elective courses in creative writing, typically focusing on either poetry or fiction. The course introduces the basic elements of fiction writing, including character, plot, setting, narration, and style. Students learn to analyze texts from a writerly perspective and create original stories.
TESOL Certification
Bachelor's in English graduates often pursue teaching English to speakers of other languages (TESOL) certification, enabling them to instruct English language learners both in the United States and abroad. Often lasting 1-3 months, TESOL programs usually require at least 120 course hours.
More advanced TESOL certification programs may require candidates to hold at least a bachelor's degree. Many schools offer TESOL certification in both online and on-campus formats.
Scholarships for English
English bachelor's degree candidates can pursue financial aid opportunities to fund their studies, including student loans, grants, and scholarships. Unlike loans, scholarships do not require repayment, making them ideal forms of financial aid. This list highlights three scholarship opportunities for English majors.
Beinecke Scholarship Program
Who Can Apply: Requiring a nomination from a faculty member, the prestigious Beinecke Scholarship Program offers significant funding to junior and senior students who plan to pursue graduate studies in the humanities, arts, or social sciences.
Who Can Apply: User experience design company Wongdoody offers this scholarship to Black women pursuing creative careers related to advertising, marketing, or experience design. Undergraduate applicants must hold at least junior standing.
Who Can Apply: Open to high school students of all ages, these scholarships award students in various creative writing fields, including fiction, poetry, drama, and memoir. All applicants must submit a sample of creative work.
The University of Central Florida is a leader in e-learning. In the online BA in English program, students complete coursework in a flexible learning environment. The English coursework covers core topics and specialized training.
Students can complete a bachelor’s in 18-36 months with enough transfer credits. Bachelor’s students pay $4,478 for in-state tuition. Master's students complete master’s degrees in about two years. Nontraditional learners pursuing graduate degrees pay $6,916 for in-state tuition. The school awards an average aid package of $9,728.
Applicants must submit school transcripts. Degree-seekers can access support services such as tutoring from the institution. The school's website provides details about how to earn credit for experiential learning. The University of Central Florida has been accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges.
Average Tuition
In-state
$4,478
Out-of-state
$19,810
Retention Rate
91%
Admission Rate
44%
Students Enrolled
69,402
Institution Type
Public
Percent Online Enrollment
59%
Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes
Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges
#2 Online English Degrees 2022
University of Illinois at Springfield
Springfield, IL
4 years
Online + Campus
The online English degree, offered by the University of Illinois at Springfield, ranks among the best English programs in the country. Degree-seekers choose from in-person and online enrollment options at the public institution. With an English degree, professionals can pursue entry-level roles in diverse fields.
Designed with working students in mind, the flexible format makes it easier to earn a college degree. Online English courses strengthen in-demand skills like critical thinking and problem-solving. Students work closely with faculty advisors to design a custom degree plan based on their interests and professional goals. The school supports online students through academic advising, experiential learning opportunities, and career services.
Online learners can qualify for federal financial aid programs, including the Pell Grant.
University of Illinois at Springfield Numbers:
Online Student Enrollment: 3,006
Online Bachelor's Programs: 12
Online Master's Programs: 12
Admission Rate: 77%
Graduation Rate: 54%
Grants Transfer Credits: No
Average Tuition
In-state
$9,520
Out-of-state
$15,948
Retention Rate
79%
Admission Rate
77%
Students Enrolled
4,275
Institution Type
Public
Percent Online Enrollment
70%
Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes
Higher Learning Commission
#3 Online English Degrees 2022
University of Maine at Presque Isle
Presque Isle, ME
4 years
Online + Campus
The University of Maine at Presque Isle enrolls students in an online English program, one of the best of its kind. Students can enroll in on-campus and online programs at the public institution. The bachelor's in English builds the skills and knowledge required for English careers.
Created with working professionals in mind, the program's flexible format puts more control in students' hands. Online English courses focus on discipline-specific knowledge and skills. Faculty advisors work closely with students to select electives and minors that individualize the degree. Distance learners benefit from the school's support services, which include academic advising, experiential learning opportunities, and career services.
Degree-seekers qualify for federal student aid programs, including the Pell Grant.
University of Maine at Presque Isle Fast Facts:
Online Student Enrollment: 597
Online Bachelor's Programs: 10
Admission Rate: 99%
Graduation Rate: 38%
Transfer Credits Toward Degree: No
Average Tuition
In-state
$7,170
Out-of-state
$11,460
Retention Rate
63%
Admission Rate
99%
Students Enrolled
1,445
Institution Type
Public
Percent Online Enrollment
41%
Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes
New England Commission on Higher Education
#4 Online English Degrees 2022
Columbia College
Columbia, MO
4 years
Online + Campus
Columbia College offers a comprehensive catalog of 56 online and on-campus programs, including bachelor's programs. Learners complete online English coursework in a flexible learning environment. Students learn core English topics and receive specialized training.
Degree-seekers can transfer credits to complete a bachelor’s in 18-36 months. Undergraduates pay $10,912 for in-state tuition for bachelor’s degrees. Enrollees complete master's programs in about two years. Learners pay an $8,602 in-state tuition rate for graduate degrees.
The school delivers affordable, high-quality bachelor's programs. Degree-seekers can access support services from the institution. Students can receive professional tutoring to improve their academic performance. The school holds accreditation from the Higher Learning Commission.
Average Tuition
In-state
$10,912
Out-of-state
$10,912
Retention Rate
64%
Admission Rate
Not provided
Students Enrolled
9,913
Institution Type
Private
Percent Online Enrollment
76%
Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes
Higher Learning Commission
#5 Online English Degrees 2022
University of Memphis
Memphis, TN
4 years
Online + Campus
Degrees at the University of Memphis prepare enrollees for new career opportunities and advancement. Online students complete English coursework in a flexible learning environment. The program curriculum covers core English topics and specialized training.
The school’s generous transfer policy facilitates faster degree completion. The school’s in-state tuition rate for bachelor’s degrees is $8,208. Students can complete master’s programs in just two years. Finishing a doctoral degree often takes four or more years. Nontraditional learners pursuing graduate degrees pay $9,216 for in-state tuition. Enrollees pay for tuition with an average aid package of $9,424. Distance learners receive support from online services such as tutoring and career advising.
While earning a degree, students gain the knowledge and skills necessary to secure roles in their field. Learners can specialize their bachelor's studies by pursuing a minor. Enrollees watch lectures and complete assignments at convenient times. A four-year bachelor’s program requires at least 120 credits. The University of Memphis is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges, an independent accrediting agency.
Average Tuition
In-state
$8,208
Out-of-state
$12,048
Retention Rate
78%
Admission Rate
85%
Students Enrolled
21,685
Institution Type
Public
Percent Online Enrollment
44%
Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes
Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges
#6 Online English Degrees 2022
Indiana University East
Richmond, IN
4 years
Online + Campus
Located in Richmond, Indiana University East offers multiple online programs, including a top-ranked bachelor's degree in English and writing. Degree-seekers choose from in-person and online enrollment options at the public institution. The English program offers a flexible route to a college degree.
Designed with working students in mind, the flexible format makes it easier to earn a college degree. During the online English program, learners take courses that build in-demand knowledge and skills. Faculty advisors recommend a custom degree plan to meet each student's interests and career goals. Learners benefit from support services like online academic advising and career services.
In addition to scholarships, distance learners may qualify for federal financial aid programs like the Pell Grant.
Indiana University East Numbers:
Online Student Enrollment: 2,989
Online Bachelor's Programs: 13
Admission Rate: 63%
Graduation Rate: 40%
Transfer Credits Toward Degree: No
Average Tuition
In-state
$6,895
Out-of-state
$19,346
Retention Rate
63%
Admission Rate
63%
Students Enrolled
3,766
Institution Type
Public
Percent Online Enrollment
79%
Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes
Higher Learning Commission
#7 Online English Degrees 2022
University of Maryland Global Campus
Adelphi, MD
4 years
Online
The online English degree, offered by the University of Maryland Global Campus from its location in Adelphi, ranks among the best programs in the country. The public institution offers a variety of learning formats, including in-person and online courses. In the bachelor's in English program, majors gain the knowledge and skills required for English careers.
Created with working professionals in mind, the program's flexible format puts more control in students' hands. The online English curriculum builds in-demand, industry-specific knowledge and skills. Degree-seekers work with faculty advisors to design an individualized course of study. Online students benefit from academic advising, experiential learning opportunities, and career services.
Online students can pay for school with scholarships, grants, and federal aid programs like the Pell Grant.
University of Maryland Global Campus Fast Facts:
Online Student Enrollment: 52,298
Online Bachelor's Programs: 31
Online Master's Programs: 17
Graduation Rate: 15%
Transfer Credits Permitted: No
Average Tuition
In-state
$7,200
Out-of-state
$11,976
Retention Rate
52%
Admission Rate
Not provided
Students Enrolled
58,281
Institution Type
Public
Percent Online Enrollment
90%
Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes
Middle States Commission on Higher Education
#8 Online English Degrees 2022
Mercy College
Dobbs Ferry, NY
4 years
Online + Campus
From its Dobbs Ferry, New York, campus, Mercy College enrolls students in its top-ranked online English degree. The private institution delivers on-campus and online programs. In the master of arts in English and literature, majors gain the knowledge and skills required for English careers.
Busy students benefit from the program's distance learning format, which makes it easier to balance school with other responsibilities. During an online English degree, learners build career-ready knowledge and skills. Faculty advisors help students design a custom degree plan based on their interests and career goals. Academic advising, experiential learning opportunities, and career services support help distance learners reach their academic goals.
Distance learners also qualify for scholarships, grants, and loans, including Pell Grants and federal loans.
Mercy College Facts:
Online Student Enrollment: 3,814
Online Bachelor's Programs: 14
Online Master's Programs: 25
Admission Rate: 82%
Graduation Rate: 44%
Allows Transfer Credits: No
Average Tuition
In-state
$18,934
Out-of-state
$18,934
Retention Rate
77%
Admission Rate
82%
Students Enrolled
10,557
Institution Type
Private
Percent Online Enrollment
36%
Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes
Middle States Commission on Higher Education
#9 Online English Degrees 2022
Southwestern Assemblies of God University
Waxahachie, TX
4 years
Online + Campus
Southwestern Assemblies of God University, located in Waxahachie, Texas, offers many top-ranked online programs, including an English degree. At the private institution, degree-seekers take classes in person and online. In the bachelor's in English program, majors gain the knowledge and skills required for English careers.
The online learning format helps working professionals and busy students make time for their coursework. Online English courses strengthen in-demand skills like critical thinking and problem-solving. Faculty advisors help students design a custom degree plan based on their interests and career goals. Degree-seekers enrolled online benefit from virtual academic advising and career services.
Students pay for their degree with scholarships, grants, and loans, including federal programs like the Pell Grant.
Southwestern Assemblies of God University Facts:
Online Student Enrollment: 1,440
Online Bachelor's Programs: 28
Online Master's Programs: 16
Admission Rate: 88%
Graduation Rate: 45%
Transfer Credits Counted: No
Average Tuition
In-state
$20,496
Out-of-state
$20,496
Retention Rate
67%
Admission Rate
88%
Students Enrolled
2,050
Institution Type
Private
Percent Online Enrollment
70%
Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes
Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges
#10 Online English Degrees 2022
Thomas Edison State University
Trenton, NJ
4 years
Online
From its Trenton, New Jersey, campus, Thomas Edison State University enrolls students in an online English program, one of the best of its kind. The institution offers traditional, hybrid, and online programs. The BA in English trains students for careers in diverse fields.
Created with working professionals in mind, the program's flexible format puts more control in students' hands. Online courses focus on discipline-specific knowledge and skills. Majors work closely with faculty advisors to customize their course of study. Student support services like academic advising and career counseling help degree-seekers complete the program and transition into the workforce.
Online students use scholarships, grants, and other forms of financial aid like the Pell Grant to cover costs.
Average Tuition
In-state
$7,926
Out-of-state
$9,856
Retention Rate
Not provided
Admission Rate
Not provided
Students Enrolled
10,227
Institution Type
Public
Percent Online Enrollment
100%
Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes
Middle States Commission on Higher Education
#11 Online English Degrees 2022
Heritage University
Toppenish, WA
4 years
Online + Campus
Heritage University offers programs that prepare graduates for new careers or advancement in their current field.
Online students transfer credits to complete a bachelor’s in 18-36 months. Online learners can earn a master’s degree in two years. Completing a doctoral degree may take more than four years.
The school's bachelor's programs rank among the best in the nation for quality and affordability. Learners can access support services at the school. Students can receive peer and professional tutoring.
Average Tuition
In-state
$17,988
Out-of-state
$17,988
Retention Rate
74%
Admission Rate
Not provided
Students Enrolled
971
Institution Type
Private
Percent Online Enrollment
4%
Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes
Northwest Commission on Colleges and Universities
#12 Online English Degrees 2022
Western New Mexico University
Silver City, NM
4 years
Online + Campus
Western New Mexico University offers programs that prepare students for new job opportunities and career advancement. The university delivers a bachelor of arts in English.
While completing their program, degree-seekers gain the knowledge and skills necessary to impress employers. Earning a minor can make graduates more competitive for specialized positions. Online learners watch lectures and complete assignments at convenient times. Students typically earn 120 credits to complete a bachelor’s program.
Average Tuition
In-state
$4,167
Out-of-state
$11,400
Retention Rate
59%
Admission Rate
Not provided
Students Enrolled
3,193
Institution Type
Public
Percent Online Enrollment
66%
Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes
Higher Learning Commission
#13 Online English Degrees 2022
Colorado Mesa University
Grand Junction, CO
4 years
Online + Campus
Colorado Mesa University offers an online English degree from its Grand Junction campus that ranks among the top programs in the country. To meet the needs of a variety of students, the public institution offers in-person and online courses. The English program prepares graduates for careers in many fields.
The program's distance learning format appeals to working professionals and busy students. The degree's major courses and general education requirements strengthen analytical and critical thinking skills. Faculty advisors work with majors to choose electives and customize the degree. Students benefit from support services like online academic advising and career services.
At the accredited institution, distance learners can use federal financial aid programs like the Pell Grant.
Colorado Mesa University Fast Facts:
Online Student Enrollment: 3,258
Online Bachelor's Programs: 5
Online Master's Programs: 3
Admission Rate: 78%
Graduation Rate: 34%
Transfer Credits Allowed: No
Average Tuition
In-state
$7,787
Out-of-state
$20,720
Retention Rate
74%
Admission Rate
78%
Students Enrolled
9,373
Institution Type
Public
Percent Online Enrollment
35%
Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes
Higher Learning Commission
#14 Online English Degrees 2022
Community College of Philadelphia
Philadelphia, PA
2 years
Online + Campus
Located in Pennsylvania, Community College of Philadelphia enrolls students in many online programs, including its online English program. The public institution offers traditional, hybrid, and online programs. Students in the associate in English program train for entry-level careers in English.
Busy students and working professionals benefit from the program's flexible learning format. During general education and major courses, students strengthen their critical thinking and analytical skills. Students work with faculty advisors to craft an individualized degree plan based on their interests and career goals. The school's support services include academic advising, experiential learning opportunities, and career services.
Online learners qualify for federal financial aid programs, including the Pell Grant.
Community College of Philadelphia Numbers:
Online Student Enrollment: 5,678
Graduation Rate: 15%
Allows Transfer Credits: No
Average Tuition
In-state
$7,632
Out-of-state
$11,448
Retention Rate
60%
Admission Rate
Not provided
Students Enrolled
15,996
Institution Type
Public
Percent Online Enrollment
35%
Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes
Middle States Commission on Higher Education
#15 Online English Degrees 2022
Copiah-Lincoln Community College
Wesson, MS
2 years
Online + Campus
Located in Wesson, Mississippi, Copiah-Lincoln Community College offers multiple online programs, including a top-ranked degree in English. The institution delivers a variety of enrollment options, including online and in-person programs. The associate in English program provides a flexible pathway to entry-level careers.
The program's distance learning format appeals to working professionals and busy students. The online curriculum builds in-demand, industry-specific knowledge and skills. Faculty advisors work closely with students to select electives and minors that individualize the degree. Distance learners benefit from the school's support services, which include academic advising, experiential learning opportunities, and career services.
Distance learners may qualify for scholarships, grants, and other forms of financial aid like the Pell Grant.
Average Tuition
In-state
$2,800
Out-of-state
$4,800
Retention Rate
69%
Admission Rate
Not provided
Students Enrolled
3,113
Institution Type
Public
Percent Online Enrollment
60%
Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes
Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges
AffordableCollegesOnline.org is an advertising-supported site. Featured or trusted partner programs and all school search, finder, or match results are for schools that compensate us. This compensation does not influence our school rankings, resource guides, or other editorially-independent information published on this site.
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