Online Master’s Programs In English
Students pursuing an online master’s degree in English develop critical, analytical, and creative-thinking skills that apply to practically any field of study. Online English degrees also train enrollees to clearly and effectively communicate ideas and analyses. These transferable skills can benefit degree-holders in various workplace settings.
Graduates of master’s programs in English often pursue careers as high school teachers and college professors. The Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) reports that these professionals earn median annual salaries of $62,870 and $80,790, respectively. Both types of educators earn median annual salaries higher than the median of $41,950 for all occupations.
Leveraging Your English Degree
Is a master’s in English degree worth it?
A master’s in English can lead to career options in various fields. A master’s in English also meets the degree requirement for many professional and doctoral programs.
What can I do with a master’s in English?
A master’s degree in English qualifies holders to pursue doctoral programs. Graduates can pursue careers with an English degree such as teacher, writer, and editor.
Can you get an English degree online?
Yes. Many reputable colleges and universities offer online English degrees at the master’s level.
Can I become a teacher with an English degree?
Teaching remains one of the most popular English degree jobs. Some states require educators to complete a teacher training program.
Featured Online Programs
Find a program that meets your affordability, flexibility, and education needs through an accredited, online school.
Why Get a Degree in English?
Earning a master’s in English can lead to career paths in diverse professional fields, along with increased earning potential. According to BLS data, master’s degree-holders earn a median weekly salary of $1,545, compared to bachelor’s and associate degree-holders, who earn $1,305 and $938 per week, respectively.
Professionals with a master’s degree also enjoy lower unemployment levels than workers with less education. Master’s degree-holders can also pursue doctoral studies to access even higher earnings and lower unemployment rates.
How Much Does an English Degree Cost?
The cost of earning an English degree depends on factors such as type of institution. According to data from the National Center for Education Statistics, tuition and fees for graduate students at public schools cost $12,171 for the 2018-2019 school year. Graduate studies at private institutions cost $27,776 annually for the same academic year.
Some colleges and universities offer in-state tuition rates to all online learners, regardless of residency status. This can save out-of-state students thousands of dollars in tuition. Online degree-seekers may also save money on costs associated with housing, transportation, and childcare.
Fellowship, grant, and scholarship programs can significantly reduce the cost of earning a master’s in English degree. Learners can apply for scholarships and financial aid programs to minimize student loans and reduce long-term debt.
How Much Do English Majors Make?
According to BLS data, English degree-holders earn a median salary of $50,000 per year. However, some jobs for English master’s degree-holders pay much higher salaries. For example, K-12 education administrators earn a median salary of $98,490 per year. The top-paying states for these administrators include New York ($141,020), California ($132,400), and Connecticut ($131,830).
Master’s degree-holders can also become high school teachers, who earn a median annual salary of $62,870, higher than the median for all English degree-holders. The highest-paying states for high school teachers include New York ($88,890), California ($86,900), and Massachusetts ($84,130).
Other high-paying English degree jobs for graduates include technical writer, editor, and postsecondary teacher.
Courses in English
English degree-seekers often specialize in an area such as literature, professional writing, rhetoric and composition, or journalism. Online English degrees typically comprise foundational coursework and specialization classes. Core classes explore topics such as approaches to literature, contemporary fiction, and literary analysis.
Master’s students pursuing an English degree must usually submit a thesis on a topic related to their specialization and professional objectives. Some English programs also require an internship experience, especially for aspiring educators.
Students in this course examine linguistic characteristics such as syntax, semantics, phonetics, morphology, and phonology. Learners use this knowledge to compare English with other languages. Degree-seekers learn how to identify typological patterns and language-specific or universal categories. The course prepares students to teach English as a second language.Contrastive Linguistics
The course provides an overview of traditional and emerging trends in literary theory and criticism. Students trace the development of key topics in the field by examining classical literary works by authors such as Aristotle and Plato. Learners also explore modern theoretical trends, such as gender studies and poststructuralist paradigms.Literary Theory and Criticism
In this class, students examine the role of rhetoric in the history and development of modern liberal education. Coursework familiarizes enrollees with classic rhetorical texts by authors such as Plato and Cicero, along with more recent works by authors such as Kenneth Burke and Harold Bloom. Learners study the relationship between epistemology and rhetoric and the evolving definitions and construction of rhetoric.The History and Practice of Rhetoric
Online Master’s in English Programs
New England College
Henniker, NH
- 4 year
- Campus + Online
New England College delivers respected, accessible online graduate programs for distance learners. The Henniker, New Hampshire-based institution offers 33 online programs, including seven online master's programs. At the school, graduate degree-seekers can enroll in the master of arts in professional writing program. Students can pursue the online program to access flexible enrollment options that make earning a degree easier.
The graduate-level curriculum comprises core coursework and advanced classes. Master's students gain specialized knowledge during elective classes and apply theoretical knowledge during experiential learning opportunities. Master's degree-seekers typically graduate with their degree in 1-2 years. For exact application deadlines and requirements, prospective applicants can speak with an admissions advisor.
The school charges online learners affordable tuition rates, making graduate studies more accessible. The institution charges New Hampshire residents and out-of-state students an average of $14,088 for graduate tuition. The institution holds accreditation, which means enrollees with financial need to qualify for federal grants and loans. To fund their education, 99% of the school's students receive financial aid.
- In-State$24,555
- Out-of-state$24,555
- In-State$14,088
- Out-of-state$14,088
- Retention Rate58%
- Acceptance Rate100%
- Students Enrolled3,527
- Institution TypePrivate
- Percent Online Enrollment61%
- AccreditationYes
The University of Texas Permian Basin
Odessa, TX
- 4 year
- Campus + Online
The University of Texas Permian Basin educates undergraduate and graduate degree-seekers online and at its Odessa campus. The school offers 12 online bachelor's programs and three online master's programs, which often benefit learners with personal or professional responsibilities.
The institution offers an online master of arts in English for busy students who want to earn their degree while maintaining employment. Learners currently employed in the field often qualify for career advancement after graduation. The school offers support services, including academic advising and career counseling, for graduate students.
Affordable tuition rates and institutional funding make pursuing graduate studies easier for many enrollees. Students at the accredited institution can qualify for federal grants and loans. Learners pursuing a master's degree can research additional financial aid options, including private scholarships and fellowships.
The University of Texas Permian Basin Facts:
Students Receiving Aid: 91%
Students Receiving Loans: 39%
Total Master's Programs: 19
Accepts Transfer Credits: No
- In-State$4,867
- Out-of-state$5,767
- In-State$4,594
- Out-of-state$5,220
- Retention Rate63%
- Acceptance Rate88%
- Students Enrolled5,283
- Institution TypePublic
- Percent Online Enrollment70%
- AccreditationYes
Heritage University
Toppenish, WA
- 4 year
- Campus + Online
Heritage University provides online options for graduate-level learners interested in pursuing degrees remotely. Students can pursue five online programs from the private institution, along with in-person academic offerings in Toppenish, Washington. The school's academic offerings include a master of arts in multicultural English literature and language for graduate degree-seekers interested in the field. Students can pursue the online English program to access flexible enrollment options that make earning a degree easier.
In addition to fulfilling core requirements, master's-level learners gain specialized knowledge during advanced English classes. Experiential learning opportunities help graduate students gain practical skills and prepare to impress employers after graduation. Degree-seekers enrolled full time typically need 1-2 years to graduate with a master's in English. For details about application deadlines and requirements, prospective applicants can contact an admissions advisor.
Online learners at the school pay affordable tuition rates and can apply for institutional funding to further reduce the financial burden of earning a master's degree. Graduate tuition rates at the institution average $9,336 for in-state and out-of-state graduate students. Enrollees with financial need can submit the FAFSA to apply for federal grants, loans, and work-study programs. According to the school, 100% of students fund their education through financial aid.
- In-State$17,988
- Out-of-state$17,988
- In-State$9,336
- Out-of-state$9,336
- Retention Rate74%
- Acceptance RateN/A
- Students Enrolled971
- Institution TypePrivate
- Percent Online Enrollment4%
- AccreditationYes
Morehead State University
Morehead, KY
- 4 year
- Campus + Online
Located in Morehead, Kentucky, Morehead State University delivers educational programs online and in person. The accredited English program uses a rigorous curriculum taught by experts. Because of the master of arts in English program's virtual delivery, students can save money on transportation, childcare, and other expenses. Video lectures, assignments, and class discussions cover advanced topics in English.
Master's students use financial aid such as loans and scholarships to help cover tuition expenses. In addition to this online English program, Morehead State University offers 13 other master's degrees. The school holds accreditation from the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges.
Morehead State University Numbers:
Total Online Students: 4,437
Distance Learning Master's Degrees: 14
In-State Graduate School Tuition: $10,260
Out-of-State Graduate Tuition: $10,260
Average Aid Amount Per Student: $9,428
Average Price With Aid: $12,560
- In-State$8,970
- Out-of-state$13,556
- In-State$10,260
- Out-of-state$10,260
- Retention Rate73%
- Acceptance Rate78%
- Students Enrolled9,654
- Institution TypePublic
- Percent Online Enrollment46%
- AccreditationYes
Bowling Green State University
Bowling Green, OH
- 4 year
- Campus + Online
Degree-seekers can enroll in Bowling Green State University's graduate programs online or on campus in Bowling Green, Ohio. The public institution's offerings include online master's programs. Students interested in English can pursue the school's flexible master of arts in English.
During the first year of the online program, master's students explore foundational principles through core classes. Degree-seekers take advanced courses and customize the program through electives. In addition to classroom learning, students receive access to faculty mentorship and practical learning experiences. Graduates with a master's in English can pursue leadership roles. For assistance locating job placements, graduate students and alumni can consult with the institution's career counselors.
The institution holds accreditation, which means degree-seekers with financial need can qualify for federal grants and loans. Scholarships, fellowships, and employer-sponsored tuition reimbursement programs can help distance learners fund their master's studies. Of the school's graduate students, 95% obtain financial aid to fund their studies.
- In-State$9,278
- Out-of-state$17,267
- In-State$8,017
- Out-of-state$14,009
- Retention Rate77%
- Acceptance Rate72%
- Students Enrolled17,733
- Institution TypePublic
- Percent Online Enrollment33%
- AccreditationYes
The University of Nebraska at Kearney
Kearney, NE
- 4 year
- Campus + Online
The University of Nebraska at Kearney educates undergraduate and graduate degree-seekers online and at its Kearney campus. Learners can pursue any of the school's nine online bachelor's programs and 14 online master's programs.
Degree-seekers interested in English can enroll in the online master of arts in English from the institution. The English degree can qualify graduates for promotions or raises. Master's students can take advantage of faculty mentorship, experiential learning programs, and career counseling.
Affordable tuition rates and institutional funding make pursuing graduate studies easier for many enrollees. Students at the accredited institution can receive federal financial aid. Learners may also fund their studies through scholarships and fellowships.
The University of Nebraska at Kearney Fast Facts:
Students Receiving Aid: 94%
Students Receiving Loans: 44%
Total Master's Programs: 16
Transfer Credits Toward Degree: No
- In-State$6,090
- Out-of-state$13,290
- In-State$6,048
- Out-of-state$13,296
- Retention Rate77%
- Acceptance Rate85%
- Students Enrolled6,279
- Institution TypePublic
- Percent Online Enrollment65%
- AccreditationYes
Tarleton State University
Stephenville, TX
- 4 year
- Campus + Online
Located in Stephenville, Texas, Tarleton State University has one of the best online offerings in the country. The accredited English program provides advanced training through its curriculum taught by experts. Students also save on transportation, childcare, and related expenses by choosing an online program. The master of arts in English curriculum consists of video lectures, assignments, and class discussions.
To fund their education, 87% of the school's students obtain financial aid and 54% take out loans. The school reports a 56% admission rate. The school holds accreditation from the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges.
Tarleton State University at a Glance:
Enrolled Online Students: 7,073
Number of Online Master’s Programs: 10
Tuition for In-State Grad Students: $4,137
Tuition for Out-of-State Grad Students: $11,733
Average Amount of Aid Awarded: $7,164
Average Price With Aid: $14,631
- In-State$4,526
- Out-of-state$14,296
- In-State$4,137
- Out-of-state$11,733
- Retention Rate65%
- Acceptance Rate56%
- Students Enrolled13,166
- Institution TypePublic
- Percent Online Enrollment54%
- AccreditationYes
Wayland Baptist University
Plainview, TX
- 4 year
- Campus + Online
A top-ranked school located in Plainview, Texas, Wayland Baptist University offers master's programs on its campus and online. The private institution's offerings include an online master's in English, which distance learners can pursue from any location. After earning the master of arts in English, graduates often qualify for promotions or raises.
Graduate students can work with faculty advisors to explore complex issues in the English field. Enrollees pursuing the master's degree complete a rigorous curriculum that fosters field-specific knowledge and transferable skills. Master's students develop analytical and leadership skills they can apply to positions in the industry.
The school charges online learners affordable tuition rates and offers institutional funding for eligible applicants. Financial aid counselors help degree-seekers explore funding options. The school's affordable tuition rates make it easier for learners to pursue graduate degrees.
Wayland Baptist University Fast Facts:
Online Master's Programs: 15
Total Online Programs: 26
Number of Online Students: 2,485
Graduate Tuition In-State: $13,104
Graduate Tuition Out-of-State: $13,104
Transfer Credits Toward Degree: No
- In-State$21,360
- Out-of-state$21,360
- In-State$13,104
- Out-of-state$13,104
- Retention Rate41%
- Acceptance Rate97%
- Students Enrolled4,084
- Institution TypePrivate
- Percent Online Enrollment61%
- AccreditationYes
Northwestern State University of Louisiana
Natchitoches, LA
- 4 year
- Campus + Online
Undergraduate and graduate degree-seekers can pursue Northwestern State University of Louisiana's programs online or in person. In addition to on-campus graduate programs, the school offers a variety of online programs. The master of arts in English is one of the best online English degrees.
In addition to rigorous coursework, the master's program prepares enrollees for English careers through academic and career advising. The online English program features flexible scheduling and enrollment options, which can make earning a degree easier for busy learners balancing academics with personal obligations. Full-time master's degree-seekers typically require 1-2 years to complete their program.
The institution holds accreditation, which means students can receive federal grants, scholarships, and loans. To fund their education, 48% of enrollees take out loans. In addition, 97% of learners receive financial aid.
Northwestern State University of Louisiana Numbers:
Total Programs: 88
Number of Online Programs: 53
Online Master's Programs: 21
Number of Online Students: 8,906
Religious Affiliation: Non-Affiliated
Transfer Credits Counted: No
- In-State$5,180
- Out-of-state$15,968
- In-State$5,738
- Out-of-state$16,526
- Retention Rate70%
- Acceptance Rate82%
- Students Enrolled10,900
- Institution TypePublic
- Percent Online Enrollment82%
- AccreditationYes
East Carolina University
Greenville, NC
- 4 year
- Campus + Online
Graduate degree-seekers can enroll in online and in-person programs from East Carolina University. Learners throughout the country can pursue an online master's in English from the public institution. Ideal for working professionals, the affordable, accessible master of arts in English program qualifies graduates for high-level roles.
Faculty advisors support English students during the course of their master's studies. The program's rigorous curriculum helps enrollees develop foundational knowledge and specialized skills in the field. Coursework emphasizes analytical and leadership skills applicable to roles in the industry.
Online learners at the school pay affordable tuition rates, making graduate studies more accessible. The institution's financial aid counselors help graduate degree-seekers secure funding through scholarship and fellowship programs.
East Carolina University Facts:
Online Master's Programs: 72
Total Online Programs: 69
Number of Online Students: 13,890
Graduate Tuition In-State: $4,749
Graduate Tuition Out-of-State: $17,898
Transfer Credits Toward Degree: No
- In-State$4,452
- Out-of-state$20,729
- In-State$4,749
- Out-of-state$17,898
- Retention Rate82%
- Acceptance Rate79%
- Students Enrolled28,651
- Institution TypePublic
- Percent Online Enrollment48%
- AccreditationYes
The University of Memphis
Memphis, TN
- 4 year
- Campus + Online
The University of Memphis delivers a respected online master's program in English. A public institution located in Memphis, Tennessee, the university enrolls 9,456 students in its distance learning programs. The convenient, accessible format appeals to working professionals and busy adults seeking a graduate degree.
The master of arts in English features a rigorous curriculum, helping degree-seekers develop foundational knowledge in the field. Graduate students work closely with faculty mentors to tailor the program based on their professional goals. The flexible program emphasizes industry knowledge. The English master's degree can qualify graduates for promotions to leadership positions. The institution offers career services to help master's students efficiently transition from their studies into the workforce.
The school delivers career advising and financial aid counseling to help graduate degree-seekers plan their academic and professional future. The school's affordable tuition rates make it easier for students to pursue graduate degrees. Learners may also qualify for scholarships, fellowships, or other forms of financial aid.
- 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
The University of Louisiana Monroe
Monroe, LA
- 4 year
- Campus + Online
Degree-seekers can enroll in the University of Louisiana Monroe's graduate programs online or on campus in Monroe, Louisiana. The public institution's master's programs include fully online options for distance learners. Students who aspire to careers in English can enroll in the flexible master of arts in English.
The online English program begins with core classes. After completing core requirements, degree-seekers take advanced English courses and customize the program through electives. To further prepare for careers in the field, master's students can take advantage of faculty mentorship and experiential learning opportunities. A master's in English often leads to advanced positions and raises for current professionals in the field. Faculty advisors and career counselors help master's students and alumni identify career opportunities.
At the accredited institution, degree-seekers who demonstrate financial need can qualify for federal aid. Distance learners can apply for scholarships and fellowships to reduce the cost of earning a master's degree. The school reports that 98% of its student body receives financial aid to fund their education.
- In-State$5,788
- Out-of-state$17,888
- In-State$6,490
- Out-of-state$18,590
- Retention Rate73%
- Acceptance Rate80%
- Students Enrolled8,673
- Institution TypePublic
- Percent Online Enrollment43%
- AccreditationYes
The University of West Florida
Pensacola, FL
- 4 year
- Campus + Online
The University of West Florida's academic offerings include high-quality online undergraduate and graduate programs. The public institution enrolls students in 26 online programs, including 15 online master's programs. Graduate degree-seekers can enroll in the master of arts in English. The online English program's flexible scheduling options can make it easier for busy students to complete degree requirements.
Learners in the program take core courses and advanced English classes. Specialized electives and experiential learning opportunities allow students to customize the program based on their goals and interests. Master's programs typically take 1-2 years for full-time master's degree-seekers to complete. For specific application details, including requirements and deadlines, prospective learners can review information on the institution's website.
The school charges online learners affordable tuition rates. Graduate tuition rates at the institution average $7,088 for in-state students and $22,166 for out-of-state students. The school's online graduate programs cost an average per-credit rate of $390. The institution holds accreditation, which means enrollees can qualify for federal financial aid programs. The school reports that 90% of its student body receives financial aid to fund their education.
- In-State$3,735
- Out-of-state$16,004
- In-State$7,088
- Out-of-state$22,166
- Retention Rate81%
- Acceptance Rate31%
- Students Enrolled12,557
- Institution TypePublic
- Percent Online Enrollment66%
- AccreditationYes
Slippery Rock University of Pennsylvania
Slippery Rock, PA
- 4 year
- Campus + Online
Slippery Rock University of Pennsylvania educates undergraduate and graduate degree-seekers on campus and online. In addition to on-campus graduate programs, the school provides virtual learning options. The institution delivers an online master of arts in English that is ideal for busy students interested in advancing their English skills.
The English master's program combines rigorous, graduate-level courses with strong faculty and career advising. The online English program features flexible enrollment options, which are ideal for busy learners. While most master's degree-seekers graduate in 1-2 years, part-time enrollment may extend degree completion time.
Students with financial need can submit the FAFSA to qualify for federal grants, scholarships, and loans. Of the school's enrollees, 68% use student loans to pay for their education. In addition, financial aid assists 92% of the institution's learners with the cost of their education.
Slippery Rock University of Pennsylvania Facts:
Total Programs: 87
Number of Online Programs: 21
Online Master's Programs: 21
Number of Online Students: 2,937
Religious Affiliation: Non-Affiliated
Transfer Credits Toward Degree: No
- In-State$7,716
- Out-of-state$11,574
- In-State$9,288
- Out-of-state$13,932
- Retention Rate83%
- Acceptance Rate71%
- Students Enrolled8,778
- Institution TypePublic
- Percent Online Enrollment33%
- AccreditationYes
Murray State University
Murray, KY
- 4 year
- Campus + Online
Murray State University educates online graduate degree-seekers from its campus in Murray, Kentucky. Learners located anywhere in the country can enroll in an online master's in English from the public institution. Professionals currently employed in the English field can pursue promotions or raises after earning their master's degree.
Graduate students can discuss the English field and plan their academic track with experienced faculty advisors. Enrollees in the master of arts in English program complete core and specialized coursework meeting high academic standards. In addition to English knowledge, coursework emphasizes industry-specific analytical and leadership skills.
Online learners at the school pay affordable tuition rates. Financial aid counseling can help degree-seekers explore options for reducing out-of-pocket expenses, including fellowships, scholarships, and grants. Affordable tuition rates and institutional funding make pursuing graduate studies easier for many learners.
Murray State University at a Glance:
Online Master's Programs: 41
Total Online Programs: 25
Number of Online Students: 3,853
Graduate Tuition In-State: $8,214
Graduate Tuition Out-of-State: $13,500
Transfer Credits Toward Degree: No
- In-State$7,974
- Out-of-state$23,592
- In-State$8,214
- Out-of-state$13,500
- Retention Rate79%
- Acceptance Rate82%
- Students Enrolled9,556
- Institution TypePublic
- Percent Online Enrollment40%
- AccreditationYes
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