The Best Online English Degree Programs in 2023
Online bachelor's programs in English teach students valuable communication and critical thinking skills that can be applied to careers such as journalism, public relations, advertising, and education. Learn a diverse skill set that can be used in high-earning jobs across multiple industries with an undergraduate degree in English.
Why This Matters
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DEMAND FOR TECHNICAL WRITERS EXPECTED TO INCREASE BY 7%
Companies, brands, and organizations rely on technical writers to synthesize complex information and simplify technical language for the general public.
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PUBLIC RELATIONS MANAGERS EARN $116,180 PER YEAR
PR managers help direct and maintain the public image of companies and individuals. The top 10% of public relations managers earn $208,000, which is more than four times the $39,810 median salary for all U.S. occupations.
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128,200 WRITERS AND AUTHORS BY 2029
While there is expected to be a slight decline in job growth as publishing houses and news outlets consolidate, the demand for writers who have command of online and social media communication will remain high.
Our Research
We examined online bachelor’s programs that award students either a Bachelor of Arts or a Bachelor of Science in English. The undergraduate programs on our list allow students to complete coursework either online or in a blended format.
Schools that uphold a high academic standard are given accreditation by regional and national accreditors. These programs teach verbal and written communication skills and prepare students for careers in a wide range of industries. Credits from regionally accredited schools are also easier to transfer to other institutions. Accreditation for the schools on this list has been given by the North Central Association Higher Learning Commission (NCAHLC), Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSCOC), and the Western Association of Schools and Colleges (WASC).
- 79 hours to write this article
- 92 universities and colleges we assessed
- 143 education programs we compared
The Top 50 Online English Degree Programs
What You Should Know About This Degree
When pursuing an online bachelor’s program in English, also consider undergraduate programs in communication. If you’re interested in becoming a teacher or studying literature, an English degree may be the right fit. However, if you’re interested in how people communicate with each other or gaining an understanding of internet marketing and broadcast media, you should consider a degree in communication. Both degree programs require four years of full-time study.
The job outlook for English majors remains strong, and graduates who are able to apply their skills to different industries will stand out in this competitive field.
Graduates who wish to become teachers will need to meet specific state requirements and obtain certifications to be eligible for these positions. English majors who wish to work in the communication sector should look into obtaining professional certifications from the Global Communication Certification Council and the Public Relations Society of America.
What’s Next?
Here are some questions to ask when researching online bachelor’s in English programs:
- Am I eligible for this program? Prospective students who have a high school diploma are eligible for the bachelor’s programs on this list. Schools may have additional requirements, such as a minimum GPA and standardized test scores, and you may be required to submit writing samples.
- How long does it take to complete this online degree? A minimum of 68 credits and a maximum of 180 credits are required to graduate from the schools on this list. It takes most students four years of full-time study to finish all coursework needed to receive their degree.
Research application due dates and academic prerequisites to gain a better understanding of what information is needed to be accepted into the program that you would like to attend. Some programs have low acceptance rates, so be sure to apply to multiple programs.
While higher education can be expensive, there are grants and scholarships available to help cover the financial costs associated with your academic study. Research available funding opportunities and be sure to turn in applications on time.