Online English Degrees
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- Ranking
- Why Get an English Degree
- Degree Cost
- Calculating the Cost
- Coursework
- TESOL Certification
- Scholarships
- FAQ
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.
Online Bachelor’s in English Programs
University of Central Florida
Orlando, FL- 4 year
- Campus + Online
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.
- In-State$4,478
- Out-of-state$19,810
- In-State$6,916
- Out-of-state$25,759
- Retention Rate91%
- Acceptance Rate44%
- Students Enrolled69,402
- Institution TypePublic
- Percent Online Enrollment59%
- AccreditationYes
University of Illinois at Springfield
- Springfield, IL
- 4 year
- Campus + Online
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
- In-State$9,520
- Out-of-state$15,948
- In-State$8,270
- Out-of-state$15,240
- Retention Rate79%
- Acceptance Rate77%
- Students Enrolled4,275
- Institution TypePublic
- Percent Online Enrollment70%
- AccreditationYes
University of Maine at Presque Isle
- Presque Isle, ME
- 4 year
- Campus + Online
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
- In-State$7,170
- Out-of-state$11,460
- In-StateNot provided
- Out-of-stateNot provided
- Retention Rate63%
- Acceptance Rate99%
- Students Enrolled1,445
- Institution TypePublic
- Percent Online Enrollment41%
- AccreditationYes
Columbia College
- Columbia, MO
- 4 year
- Campus + Online
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.
- In-State$10,912
- Out-of-state$10,912
- In-State$8,602
- Out-of-state$8,602
- Retention Rate64%
- Acceptance RateNot provided
- Students Enrolled9,913
- Institution TypePrivate
- Percent Online Enrollment76%
- AccreditationYes
University of Memphis
- Memphis, TN
- 4 year
- Campus + Online
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.
- In-State$8,208
- Out-of-state$12,048
- In-State$9,216
- Out-of-state$12,672
- Retention Rate78%
- Acceptance Rate85%
- Students Enrolled21,685
- Institution TypePublic
- Percent Online Enrollment44%
- AccreditationYes
Indiana University East
- Richmond, IN
- 4 year
- Campus + Online
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
- In-State$6,895
- Out-of-state$19,346
- In-State$7,264
- Out-of-state$17,113
- Retention Rate63%
- Acceptance Rate63%
- Students Enrolled3,766
- Institution TypePublic
- Percent Online Enrollment79%
- AccreditationYes
University of Maryland Global Campus
- Adelphi, MD
- 4 year
- 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
- In-State$7,200
- Out-of-state$11,976
- In-State$8,640
- Out-of-state$11,862
- Retention Rate52%
- Acceptance RateNot provided
- Students Enrolled58,281
- Institution TypePublic
- Percent Online Enrollment90%
- AccreditationYes
Mercy College
- Dobbs Ferry, NY
- 4 year
- Campus + Online
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
- In-State$18,934
- Out-of-state$18,934
- In-State$16,146
- Out-of-state$16,146
- Retention Rate77%
- Acceptance Rate82%
- Students Enrolled10,557
- Institution TypePrivate
- Percent Online Enrollment36%
- AccreditationYes
Southwestern Assemblies of God University
- Waxahachie, TX
- 4 year
- Campus + Online
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
- In-State$20,496
- Out-of-state$20,496
- In-State$10,710
- Out-of-state$10,710
- Retention Rate67%
- Acceptance Rate88%
- Students Enrolled2,050
- Institution TypePrivate
- Percent Online Enrollment70%
- AccreditationYes
Thomas Edison State University
- Trenton, NJ
- 4 year
- 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.
- In-State$7,926
- Out-of-state$9,856
- In-State$12,024
- Out-of-state$12,024
- Retention RateNot provided
- Acceptance RateNot provided
- Students Enrolled10,227
- Institution TypePublic
- Percent Online Enrollment100%
- AccreditationYes
Heritage University
- Toppenish, WA
- 4 year
- Campus + Online
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.
- In-State$17,988
- Out-of-state$17,988
- In-State$9,336
- Out-of-state$9,336
- Retention Rate74%
- Acceptance RateNot provided
- Students Enrolled971
- Institution TypePrivate
- Percent Online Enrollment4%
- AccreditationYes
Western New Mexico University
- Silver City, NM
- 4 year
- Campus + Online
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.
- In-State$4,167
- Out-of-state$11,400
- In-State$3,356
- Out-of-state$8,730
- Retention Rate59%
- Acceptance RateNot provided
- Students Enrolled3,193
- Institution TypePublic
- Percent Online Enrollment66%
- AccreditationYes
Colorado Mesa University
- Grand Junction, CO
- 4 year
- Campus + Online
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
- In-State$7,787
- Out-of-state$20,720
- In-State$9,000
- Out-of-state$13,500
- Retention Rate74%
- Acceptance Rate78%
- Students Enrolled9,373
- Institution TypePublic
- Percent Online Enrollment35%
- AccreditationYes
Community College of Philadelphia
- Philadelphia, PA
- 2 year
- Campus + Online
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
- In-State$7,632
- Out-of-state$11,448
- In-StateNot provided
- Out-of-stateNot provided
- Retention Rate60%
- Acceptance RateNot provided
- Students Enrolled15,996
- Institution TypePublic
- Percent Online Enrollment35%
- AccreditationYes
Copiah-Lincoln Community College
- Wesson, MS
- 2 year
- Campus + Online
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.
- In-State$2,800
- Out-of-state$4,800
- In-StateNot provided
- Out-of-stateNot provided
- Retention Rate69%
- Acceptance RateNot provided
- Students Enrolled3,113
- Institution TypePublic
- Percent Online Enrollment60%
- AccreditationYes
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.
How Much Does an English Degree Cost?
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.
How Much Do English Majors Make?
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.
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.
American Literature in the 20th Century
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. Survey of African American Literature
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. Introduction to Creative Writing – Fiction
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.
Amount: $34,000
Creative Black Women to Watch Scholarship
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.
Amount: $5,000
Scholastic Art and Writing Awards
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.
Amount: Varies
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.
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