Best Online Bachelor’s Degrees in English Programs for 2025

by Imed Bouchrika, Phd

Co-Founder and Chief Data Scientist

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Is English literature, writing, or grammar something that piques your interest? Studying English offers numerous career opportunities. In addition, it provides an exceptional foundation for other academic pursuits, such as philosophy, journalism, and literature, which require excellent written communication skills.

As of 2020 there are over 1.4 million English degree majors employed in various industries and business sectors (U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, 2020). In almost every industry, workers with good writing skills and impeccable English communication skills are always in high demand. The online bachelor’s degree in English ensures that every student who completes the program is ready to craft effective communication whether verbal or written that is clear and concise for all audiences.

For those who plan to pursue a career in publishing, literature, and media, majoring in English is a good starting point. Corporate communications is also the turf of English majors. The online bachelor’s degree in English provides students with the necessary coursework to develop their writing and research skills, as well as their collaborative abilities.

One way to earn an English degree is through online course platforms offered by accredited schools and universities. In this guide, prospective students will find a detailed discussion on an online bachelor’s degree in English, how much it costs, and what it takes to complete the program.

Online Bachelor’s Degree in English Table of Contents

• Can you get a degree completely online?
• Will employers take my online degree seriously?
• Are online degrees recognized all over the world?
• Online vs. Traditional Bachelor’s Degree in English
• How much does an online bachelor’s degree in English cost?
• What are the requirements of an online bachelor’s degree in English?
• Courses to Expect in an Online Bachelor’s Degree in English
• What Alternatives to Traditional Online Bachelor’s Degree Programs Are Available to Students?
• Can an Online Bachelor's Degree in English Lead to Affordable Graduate Studies?
• How Do Online English Programs Support Digital Literacy and Professional Networking?
• What Career Support Services Enhance Success in an Online English Program?
• How Can a Fast Associates Degree Complement Your Online Bachelor's in English Journey?
• What Challenges Should You Anticipate in an Online English Degree Program?
• How Do Curriculum Innovations and Faculty Credentials Elevate Your Online English Degree?
• Things to Look for in an Online Bachelor’s Degree in English
• How to Accelerate Your Online Bachelor’s Degree in English
• How do online bachelor’s degrees in English prepare students for diverse career paths?
• Financial Considerations and Support for Online English Majors

Can you get a degree completely online?

Nowadays, earning a degree exclusively online is perfectly normal, thanks to the increasing number of colleges and universities offering their programs via the internet. Currently, there is a wide range of online learning programs available for every degree, whether associate, bachelor’s, master’s, or doctoral. Through online degrees, students who lack time and financial resources to attend a traditional college now have the option to complete their degrees through online programs.

The flexibility and affordability of online education have made online degree programs a popular option for students worldwide. According to the National Center for Education Statistics, 14% of undergraduate students and 30.7% of master’s and Ph.D. students are enrolled in online degree programs in 2018. Meanwhile, around 35% of college students are taking some of their courses online (National Center for Education Statistics, 2018).

Some schools also offer hybrid programs that blend in-person and online learning. This allows students to attend physical classes for practical lessons and complete the remaining courses at home. In a hybrid learning program, schools combine experiential learning objectives and traditional classroom experiences.

The time it takes to complete an online education varies depending on the degree level and the required credits students must complete. For instance, an online associate’s degree typically takes two years to complete, while an online bachelor’s degree can be completed within four years. Students can also find a number of online master’s and doctoral degree programs that take two to five years to finish depending on the area of study.

Will employers take my online degree seriously?

Do you want to write your bachelor’s degree in your resume but are worried that employers might not accept it because it was taken online? Fret not. As the number of respected universities and authorized schools that offer online education continues to rise, executives and hiring managers are now recognizing the value and credibility of online degrees as equal to traditional degrees. As most online degree programs in English nowadays are awarded by accredited educational institutions, employers can easily verify the legitimacy of a degree. In this way, they can rest assured that the online degree holder applying for a position at their company is highly skilled and knowledgeable in his or her respective field.

Additionally, online bachelor’s degrees lead to a wide range of career prospects and a higher earning potential. According to a report by Northeastern University, bachelor’s degree holders are less likely to be unemployed compared to high school graduates and can earn an additional income of $750,000 over the course of a 40-year career (Northeastern University, 2020). A bachelor’s degree also serves as a stepping stone for further educational opportunities and earning master’s and doctoral degrees.

Are online degrees recognized all over the world?

Today, online degrees are treated with the same respect as their traditional degree counterparts. After all, changes in the higher education landscape have redefined what is a bachelor’s degree. With online education becoming more common in most parts of the world, online degree holders now have as many opportunities in the global job market as traditional degree graduates. As long as students receive their education from a reputable and accredited online school, an online degree opens up paths to plenty of global career prospects.

Over the years, there has been a significant increase in the number of college students who choose to pursue their degrees through online schools and universities. According to the Integrated Postsecondary Education Data System (IPEDS), 73% of online college students are enrolled at private for-profit institutions. Meanwhile, the share of students earning their online degrees at degree-granting postsecondary institutions is 35.3%, followed by 34.1% for those enrolled in public institutions (IPEDS, 2020).

Online vs. Traditional Bachelor’s Degree in English

Aside from the study and analysis of literature including imagery literary device, an online bachelor’s degree in English also touches on a variety of writing, composition, and public speaking components. The program prepares students for a wide array of career paths in various sectors, such as in specialty areas like journalism or library science. According to PayScale, English degree holders typically earn a median annual wage of $65,000 (PayScale, 2023).

An online bachelor’s degree program in English generally involves writing essays, analyzing texts, and diving deep into speech and grammar. Just like its traditional degree counterpart, an online English degree program focuses on helping students develop communication, writing, and organizational skills. It also covers several topics on social sciences and cultural studies to provide students with deeper insights related to the ideologies and influences behind notable literary works.

Typically, it takes four years to complete an online bachelor’s degree in English. During the first part of the program, English majors are introduced to general education coursework in science, history, mathematics, and English. Although the curriculum usually varies depending on the school, some of the common courses also include poetry, cultural commentary, rhetoric and theory, and British and American literature.

In most cases, online and traditional English degrees programs contain the same courses and have the same learning objectives. Below is a detailed discussion of how online and traditional English degrees differentiate from one another in terms of instruction format, learning experience, and skills and knowledge developed by the students.

Learning format

Online learning consists of various instructional environments and approaches. Unlike in a traditional degree program where students have to attend physical classes for their lectures, an online English degree program allows students to access learning materials through the internet at their own time. Through modern tools like learning management systems and video conferencing tools, students and instructors collaborate to discuss and review lectures, submit the required assignments, and communicate with one another.

English majors normally spend most of their time reading popular literary works, critiquing prose and verse, analyzing theories, and taking a deeper look into the words and symbolism found in literature. Modules in an English degree program also cover a diverse range of literature from different periods, as well as an extensive study of the English language and how it is used in various contexts, such as casual conversation, advertising methods, text speak, and other specialized cases.

As for the learning format, it can be either asynchronous or synchronous. Asynchronous learning allows for a self-paced study on the required course materials, which means students can browse through learning resources at their pace. Instructors may make use of prerecorded videos and presentation tools to deliver lectures and learning content.

Meanwhile, a synchronous learning format aims to imitate traditional classrooms as closely as possible. In this type of learning method, students learn from their instructors and discuss lectures in real-time via web conferencing tools. Synchronous classes also utilize chat applications for class discussions and interactive webinars that are broadcast on a given schedule.

Learning experience

Even in the past decades, individuals who lack the time and financial resources to complete a degree at traditional universities often turn to online schools to take a collegiate level of education. Through various online learning programs, more people now have access to educational resources, making it possible for students to earn a certificate or diploma without having to set foot inside a classroom or sacrifice time for work and family.

Online education provides a great number of advantages to students who are not able to attend traditional campuses due to various reasons. This is revealed in the study titled “Online education: Benefits, challenges and strategies during and after COVID-19 in higher education" published in the International Journal on Studies in Education. According to Pitambar Paudel, students and teachers “found online education beneficial though it was their first experience of having only online courses. They found that online education is highly beneficial to promoting online research, connecting the practitioners to the global community, getting huge and authentic resources of knowledge required for professional and academic endeavors, and make them self -disciplined" (Paudel, 2020).

In the same study, it was found that 76.9% of students learned to become independent learners, while 69.2% indicated that online education increased their self-discipline. On the other hand, 61.5% believed that online degree courses provide a huge resource of knowledge and flexibility on modes and modalities.

In an online bachelor’s degree program in English, lessons are mostly taught by accomplished instructors who specialize in different literary genres. Professors are mostly published authors with deep industry insights and strong passion for literary pursuits. In this way, online English majors get to learn firsthand information and relevant industry experiences that can help them in their professional growth.

Skills and knowledge developed

A bachelor’s degree in English prepares students for jobs related to writing, editing, research, and teaching. In the program, students will develop skills in critical reasoning as well as planning and researching written works. Students will also be encouraged to participate in discussions, articulate knowledge, and analyze text, theories, and concepts in literature.

Typically, a bachelor’s degree in English is a reading-intensive program, which involves the study and analysis of notable literary works. English majors, like writing majors, are also expected to refine their practical skills in compositional writing, literary analysis, and creative writing.

Is an online degree cheaper?

The cost of an online degree varies greatly depending on the type of institution and the degree level. In most cases, however, an online degree is more affordable as online schools and universities offer online programs using fewer resources and staff. In an online program, students also do not need to pay for physical resources, such as books, campus fees, transportation, and accommodation costs. As a result, the total cost of an online degree is usually cheaper compared to traditional degrees.

According to the National Center for Education Statistics, students usually pay an average college cost of $25,281 at conventional four-year institutions (NCES, 2019). This is not yet inclusive of room and board fees, transportation, and other costs associated with staying within campus. On the other hand, online colleges typically charge between $300 to $600 per credit for an undergraduate degree. In contrast, on-campus courses usually cost $735 per credit. Keep in mind that costs may also vary by type of school. For instance, the cost of attending private schools can be different from public schools.

Is an online degree as good as a regular degree?

Basically, an online degree is just as good as a regular degree, especially when it comes to the quality of education and the job opportunities that it provides to degree-holders. An online degree usually covers the same courses as its traditional degree counterpart. It also follows the same curriculum and is taught by accomplished instructors with extensive knowledge in the field. In turn, students can have the knowledge and develop the skills they need for their professional career in an online program just as they would in a traditional class.

How much does an online bachelor’s degree in English cost?

An online bachelor’s degree in English typically costs between $16,920 and $78,376 for in-state students (GetEducated, 2021). However, tuition is often not the only factor that racks up the entire cost of an online degree. As a prospective student of online bachelor’s degree in English, you also have to consider pricing for admission and technology fees, as well as learning material fees and assessment for course level placement.

Just like in traditional degree programs, there are several ways to lower the total tuition cost of a bachelor’s degree. For instance, students can transfer some of the credits that they may already have from previous programs, as long as they are from a regionally accredited institution. Aside from reducing the entire cost of the degree, this can also shorten the time it takes for students to complete the program.

Some universities also have financial aid programs that cater to specific online students. Depending on the institution, online students can apply for grants, loans, and scholarships to help them cover the cost of their educational expenses.

Is an online English degree worth it?

A bachelor’s degree in English is a popular choice for students who want to turn their passion for reading and writing into a well-paying job in the future. Since the English discipline covers a broad field, graduates can find career opportunities in nearly every industry sector. Some of the most common career options for English degree holders are editorial assistant, copywriter, journalist, and proofreader.

In addition, there are plenty of organizations that rely heavily on employees with good communication and organizational skills. Thus, English majors are often placed in public relations, media relations, and advertising departments where they can make use of their ability to deliver concise yet meaningful written or oral messages. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, most English majors earn between $60,000 and $120,000 per year (U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, 2020).

For the most part, a bachelor’s degree in English provides a great return on investment to students majoring in the field. In an English degree program, students will learn about literature from different cultures, enabling them to communicate effectively with people from different cultures. In turn, English majors are usually sought by employers from non-English speaking countries, providing them with the opportunity to live and work abroad.

What are the requirements of an online bachelor’s degree in English?

Studying English at the collegiate level can be tough at times, but it still has plenty of significant upsides to it. For instance, students of an English degree program can gain some of the most valuable skill sets in the professional world—social skills and analytical skills.

According to a report by Pew Research Center, the employment growth in the past decades is more rapid for occupations that require higher social and analytical skills (Pew Research Center, 2016). For English degree holders, this means becoming one of the highly sought employees by companies and organizations from a broad range of industry sectors.

Before all that, though, earning a bachelor’s degree in English is the first step to becoming a professional in the field. Here are some of the most common requirements that online schools and universities often look for before students can gain admission to the degree program:

Admission requirements

1. High school diploma. Like in most bachelor’s degree programs, prospective students in English need to present their high school diploma or GED certificate as proof of their educational attainment. This is so colleges and universities can verify if the students have met the required GPA for the program and have completed the necessary coursework that can help them transition to a collegiate level of studies in the English discipline.
2. Minimum GPA. Some educational institutions for online bachelor’s degrees in English may require students to meet a minimum GPA, which is usually 2.5 and above. In case students have a lower GPA, they have the option to take a placement test or non-credit courses.
3. Official transcripts. A transcript of record typically consists of official documents from an accredited educational institution. These documents provide an inventory of the courses that students have taken and the grades they earned throughout their education.
4. Letters of recommendation. Students might also need to present letters of recommendation that can attest to their work ethic, learning attitude, and potential to succeed. To give these letters more credibility, students may ask their former teachers and guidance counselors to write and sign the document.

General requirements

1. Extensive vocabulary. English majors often need an extensive vocabulary so they can write and communicate effectively. They also need to come up with the right words to express themselves and convey their messages to the right audience.
2. Critical thinking. In an online bachelor’s degree in English, students will spend most of their time analyzing text and interpreting the meaning behind different kinds of literature. Thus, critical thinking is an essential skill that enables students to read analytically and write in a concise and logical manner.

Courses to Expect in an Online Bachelor’s Degree in English

Over the years, the liberal arts field, which basically covers the English discipline, has produced a huge number of graduates that are now working in the media, publishing houses, and communication-related industries. According to Data USA, the number of students pursuing an English degree continues to rise at 2.26% per year. In 2019 alone, there was a total of 59,299 degrees awarded by colleges and universities that offer English degree programs (Data USA, 2019).

A four-year degree in English typically focuses on the different aspects of literature and the English language. Creative writing and public speaking are also covered in the program to train English majors in written and oral forms of communication. Although online degree courses in English mostly varies among different colleges and universities, the main objective of an English degree program is to lay the groundwork for students seeking career paths that involve English literature, culture, and language. Below are some of the most common courses included in an online bachelor’s degree in English:

1. Popular and contemporary fiction. Students will learn about the different writing styles and story pacing in popular and contemporary fiction novels. The study in this course also involves exploring a variety of subgenres, such as road novels, true crime, extreme adventure, and more.
2. World mythology. This course introduces students to an analytical study of mythologies across the globe. It covers the purposes and types of myths, as well as the development of the stories and the common elements of mythological structures.
3. Creative writing. Typically, a creative writing course guides students through four major literary genres: fiction, poetry, drama, and creative nonfiction. Training also involves the different forms of creative writing, such as scriptwriting, writing for children, travel writing, and the like.
4. Principles in journalism. In this course, students will familiarize themselves with the key concepts of journalism, including news judgment and news values. The course also covers the different styles of news writing and reporting.

What Alternatives to Traditional Online Bachelor’s Degree Programs Are Available to Students?

For students who prefer a more flexible and self-paced approach to learning, there are alternatives to traditional online bachelor’s degree programs. One such alternative is competency based degree programs, which focus on assessing students' skills and knowledge rather than their credit hours. This approach allows students to progress at their own pace and demonstrate their mastery of specific competencies, making it an attractive option for those who want to balance their academic and professional responsibilities. By exploring these alternative programs, students can find a learning pathway that suits their needs and goals.

Can an Online Bachelor's Degree in English Lead to Affordable Graduate Studies?

An accredited online bachelor’s degree in English not only equips students with essential communication and analytical skills but also lays a strong foundation for advanced academic pursuits. Many graduates leverage their undergraduate experience to transition seamlessly into graduate studies in specialized fields such as linguistics, creative writing, or education. By strategically planning credit transfers and consulting with academic advisors, students can maximize the efficiency of their educational pathway. In many cases, a well-rounded bachelor's curriculum enables graduates to be eligible for reputable programs offering a low cost masters degree online, thus providing a cost-effective option for continued academic growth and career advancement.

How Do Online English Programs Support Digital Literacy and Professional Networking?

Online English programs increasingly incorporate robust digital platforms that extend learning beyond traditional coursework. Advanced technological tools such as interactive digital libraries, collaborative webinars, and virtual writing labs enable students to hone essential digital literacy skills. These platforms not only foster self-directed learning but also promote real-time engagement with peers and industry professionals through online mentorship sessions and networking events. Such digital ecosystems facilitate meaningful connections and offer career-enhancing opportunities, which are pivotal for transitioning into advanced academic pursuits including PhD online programs.

What Career Support Services Enhance Success in an Online English Program?

Online English programs that invest in robust career support can significantly elevate student outcomes. Dedicated career centers offer tailored coaching, resume workshops, and mock interview sessions that specifically address the communication and analytical skills unique to English majors. These services often extend to exclusive partnerships with industry professionals, facilitating internships and job placements that align with graduates’ career aspirations.

Beyond formal career services, many institutions foster active alumni networks and mentorship programs. Such networks enable current students to gain insights from experienced professionals who have transitioned successfully into sectors like media, publishing, or corporate communications. Additionally, leveraging opportunities such as webinars and virtual career fairs can accelerate professional growth—comparable to taking advantage of fast degrees for time-efficient advancement.

How Can a Fast Associates Degree Complement Your Online Bachelor's in English Journey?

Pursuing a fast-track associate degree can serve as a strategic stepping stone for students aiming to advance into an online bachelor’s program in English. This approach allows candidates to complete prerequisite coursework quickly and potentially transfer credits, thereby reducing the time and financial investment required for a full bachelor’s degree. Leveraging fast associates degree options not only provides a rigorous foundational education but also aligns with flexible learning methods that are essential in a digital classroom environment. By integrating accelerated associate programs into their educational pathway, learners can ensure a seamless transition into advanced literary analysis and communication studies without compromising academic standards.

What Challenges Should You Anticipate in an Online English Degree Program?

Prospective students must be prepared to address distinct challenges inherent to online learning. Time management and self-discipline are critical, as the flexible format demands a proactive schedule and consistent engagement. Technical issues, including reliable internet access and familiarity with digital platforms, may also pose obstacles that require timely troubleshooting. Limited face-to-face interaction can affect mentoring and networking opportunities, prompting students to seek virtual study groups and industry webinars to enhance collaborative learning. Additionally, integrating prior credentials—such as those from cheapest online associate programs—into a seamless academic trajectory requires careful credit planning and consultation with academic advisors.

How Do Curriculum Innovations and Faculty Credentials Elevate Your Online English Degree?

A rigorous and contemporary curriculum, paired with experienced faculty, can significantly enhance your educational journey. Look for programs that update course content regularly to incorporate emerging literary trends, digital media, and interactive assignments designed to sharpen critical thinking and analytical skills. Faculty with a blend of strong academic credentials and industry experience not only provide expert instruction but also offer mentorship, networking opportunities, and insights into specialized career tracks, including degrees that make 100k a year. Evaluating faculty publication records, participation in scholarly research, and ties to professional organizations can help ensure the program meets evolving academic and industry standards while preparing graduates to excel in diverse professional environments.

Things to Look for in an Online Bachelor’s Degree in English

With so many online schools and universities now offering an online bachelor’s degree program in English, it can be difficult to choose the right one that suits the specific learning needs of a student. Below is a list of the things prospective students must consider when jumping into the decision of taking a degree in a particular online school.

Student-to-teacher ratio

The student-to-teacher ratio of an online class is an important indicator of the education quality offered by online schools and colleges. In general, online institutions maintain a 25:1 student-to-professor ratio to ensure that everyone in the class has the chance to receive individual guidance and feedback. As a result, online learners tend to have a better learning experience than students in conventional classrooms. According to a report by the University of Potomac, online learners often score higher on standardized tests than traditional students (University of Potomac, 2020).

Accreditation

Before Accreditation is another important factor that determines the quality of an online English degree. Although there is no main accrediting body for English programs, choosing an accredited school ensures that students receive an academic curriculum that meets national or regional standards.

On-site requirements

An online degree is usually marketed by educational institutions as a learning program conducted entirely via the Internet. However, students must be wary of any on-site requirements that they need to complete. For instance, some online schools require their students to attend classes in person for a short period of time, regardless of where the student lives and how far away the campus is. In that case, students could end up paying additional expenses for transportation and accommodation just to attend several classes.

How to Accelerate Your Online Bachelor’s Degree in English

Earning your online Bachelor’s Degree in English doesn’t have to take four years. Many accredited programs offer accelerated pathways that allow you to complete your degree faster while maintaining a rigorous and comprehensive education. By taking advantage of these options, students can save time and potentially reduce the overall cost of their degree.

1. Transfer Credits

If you have prior coursework or an associate degree from a regionally accredited institution, you can often transfer credits to your online bachelor’s program. This can shorten the duration of your studies by up to two years, depending on the number of transferable credits.

2. Accelerated Programs

Some universities offer accelerated degree programs designed for students who want to earn their degree in less time. These programs often include shorter semesters, condensed courses, or summer terms. To explore these options, check out accelerated degree programs online, which provide flexible and time-efficient pathways for earning your degree.

3. Credit for Prior

Learning Many online programs recognize prior learning or professional experience by awarding credits for demonstrated competencies. This is particularly useful for adult learners or professionals returning to school.

How do online bachelor’s degrees in English prepare students for diverse career paths?

An online bachelor’s degree in English not only provides a deep understanding of literature, writing, and critical thinking, but it also opens doors to a wide array of career opportunities across various industries. Whether you're passionate about teaching, publishing, or communications, an English degree equips graduates with transferable skills such as research, writing, and analytical thinking, which are highly valued by employers.

For those interested in education, an online English degree can serve as a strong foundation for teaching at the high school or college level, including the cheapest online college bachelor degree programs. Many programs offer coursework tailored to teaching English as a second language (ESL) or literacy development, making it easier to transition into educational roles. With additional certification, graduates can even explore teaching positions both domestically and internationally.

Publishing and media are another area where English graduates thrive. Whether it’s editing, content creation, or digital media management, employers in the publishing, journalism, and media industries value the strong writing and communication skills honed in an English degree program. Graduates can pursue careers as editors, writers, or content strategists, working for publishing houses, media companies, or marketing agencies.

For those looking for more corporate-focused career paths, English graduates are in high demand in public relations, advertising, and corporate communications. The ability to craft compelling narratives, create clear messaging, and engage with various audiences is a skill set that is indispensable to businesses looking to strengthen their brand or public image.

Additionally, with the growing reliance on digital content creation and social media management, graduates of online English programs can carve out careers as social media managers, content marketers, or even digital copywriters. The ability to write persuasively for an online audience is a skill that is increasingly sought after by companies in almost every sector.

An English degree can also provide the academic foundation for pursuing a master’s degree in fields like law, library science, or journalism. This flexibility and adaptability make an online English degree an excellent investment for those looking to expand their career options.

Financial Considerations and Support for Online English Majors

Pursuing an online bachelor’s degree in English is a valuable investment, but understanding the financial implications is vital for making informed decisions. Students often benefit from the affordability of online programs, as they typically cost less than traditional campus-based degrees due to the absence of additional expenses like on-campus housing and transportation. However, there are several strategies to further reduce costs and avoid financial strain.

One of the best ways to manage costs is by choosing a program that aligns with both your educational goals and financial circumstances. If affordability is a top concern, researching cost-effective institutions is a crucial step. One excellent resource for exploring affordable universities is online college for adults, which lists flexible and reasonably priced programs tailored for working professionals and adult learners.

Additionally, many universities offer financial aid opportunities specifically designed for online students. These include grants, scholarships, and flexible payment plans geared toward reducing out-of-pocket expenses. For example, students can explore federal and state grants, such as Pell Grants, which are awarded based on financial need and do not require repayment. Scholarships tailored to English majors—which may focus on academic achievement or creative writing excellence—can further alleviate tuition costs. Many online institutions also provide work-study options or tuition discounts for military personnel and their families.

Another approach to keeping costs down involves leveraging prior learning assessments or transferring previously earned credits. Many online degree programs evaluate past academic credits, certifications, and even relevant work experience, applying them toward degree requirements. This not only shortens the time required to earn a degree but also reduces overall expenses.

Understanding and preparing for additional costs is also critical. Beyond tuition, online students may encounter fees for technology, proctored exams, or access to premium learning resources. Budgeting for these and seeking programs with transparent fee structures can help avoid unexpected financial burdens.

Lastly, students should consider the long-term financial returns of earning an online bachelor's degree in English. Graduates not only unlock diverse career opportunities but also enjoy the potential for higher lifetime earnings. Paired with the flexibility and cost-efficient nature of online education, these benefits make an English degree a sound financial and professional investment.

The Future of English Degree Holders

Although it may seem to others that online English degrees lack value in the job market, a great number of English majors in the workforce actually prove them wrong. Contrary to popular belief, English degree holders are not just found in classrooms and libraries—in fact, English majors can also find jobs in the most unexpected fields, such as business, finance, and IT-related industries.

With English as one of the world’s most commonly used languages, many companies from all over the world seek employees with a good command of the language and have skills in written and oral forms of communication. As a result, English majors can often pursue a career as writers, PR specialists, reporters, and advertising staff for many global companies.

On that note, an online bachelor’s degree in English serves as the pathway to all the employment and financial rewards that the field promises. In case you also want to check out its traditional degree counterpart, you can check out this guide to English degrees.

Key Insights

• Diverse Career Opportunities: An online bachelor’s degree in English opens doors to various careers, including publishing, media, corporate communications, public relations, and more. English majors are sought after in industries requiring strong communication and writing skills.
• High Employment Rates: Over 1.4 million English degree majors are employed across different sectors, indicating a strong demand for skills in writing, literature, and communication.
• Flexibility of Online Education: Online programs offer flexibility and affordability, allowing students to complete their degrees at their own pace and often at a lower cost compared to traditional on-campus programs.
• Global Recognition: Online degrees from accredited institutions are recognized globally, providing graduates with numerous opportunities in the international job market.
• Cost-Effective Education: Online bachelor’s degrees in English are generally cheaper than traditional degrees, with lower tuition fees and no additional costs for transportation, accommodation, and physical resources.
• Skill Development: English degree programs help students develop critical reasoning, analytical thinking, extensive vocabulary, and effective communication skills, making them highly valuable in various professional roles.

FAQ

1. What are the admission requirements for an online bachelor’s degree in English?

Admission requirements typically include a high school diploma or GED certificate, meeting a minimum GPA (usually 2.5 or above), official transcripts, and letters of recommendation. Some programs may also require a personal statement or essay.

2. How long does it take to complete an online bachelor’s degree in English?

An online bachelor’s degree in English typically takes four years to complete if studied full-time. However, the duration can vary depending on the student’s pace and whether they have transferable credits from previous programs.

3. How much does an online bachelor’s degree in English cost?

The cost of an online bachelor’s degree in English ranges between $16,920 and $78,376 for in-state students. Costs may vary based on the institution, additional fees for technology and learning materials, and whether the student is attending a public or private school.

4. Are online degrees in English as good as traditional degrees?

Yes, online degrees in English are considered as good as traditional degrees, provided they are obtained from accredited institutions. They offer the same curriculum, are taught by qualified instructors, and provide the necessary skills and knowledge for professional careers.

5. What career opportunities are available for graduates with an online bachelor’s degree in English?

Graduates can pursue careers in publishing, journalism, copywriting, editing, public relations, corporate communications, advertising, and more. English majors are also valued in roles that require strong written and oral communication skills.

6. Do employers recognize online degrees in English?

Yes, employers recognize online degrees from accredited institutions. As online education becomes more common, employers understand that online degrees provide the same level of education and skills as traditional degrees.

7. What skills do students develop in an online bachelor’s degree in English?

Students develop critical reasoning, analytical thinking, extensive vocabulary, and effective communication skills. They also gain proficiency in writing, literary analysis, creative writing, and public speaking.

8. Can I transfer credits from previous programs to an online bachelor’s degree in English?

Yes, many online programs allow students to transfer credits from previous accredited institutions. This can help reduce the cost and time required to complete the degree.

9. What are the benefits of pursuing an online bachelor’s degree in English?

Benefits include flexibility in learning, affordability, the ability to balance work and studies, access to diverse learning resources, and the opportunity to develop valuable skills for various professional roles.

10. What should I look for in an online bachelor’s degree program in English?

Prospective students should consider factors such as accreditation, student-to-teacher ratio, program cost, on-site requirements, curriculum, and the institution’s reputation. Ensuring the program is accredited is crucial for quality education and better career prospects.

References:

1. Data USA. (2019). English. Retrieved from https://datausa.io/profile/cip/english
2. GetEducated. (2020, February 7). The 25 most affordable bachelor’s degree in English online. Retrieved from https://www.geteducated.com/online-college-ratings-and-rankings/bachelors-degree-in-english-online/
3. National Center for Education Statistics. (2018). Distance Learning. Retrieved from https://nces.ed.gov/fastfacts/display.asp?id=80
4. Northeastern University. (2020, December 14). Average salary by education level: The value of a college degree. Retrieved from https://www.northeastern.edu/bachelors-completion/news/average-salary-by-education-level/
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