Best Online English Degrees

Best Online Bachelor's in English

Ready to start your journey?

Online Schools Report is an advertising-supported site. Featured or trusted partner programs and all school search, finder, or match results are for schools that compensate us. This compensation does not influence our school rankings, resource guides, or other editorially-independent information published on this site.

The study of English is no longer a field only for teachers and scholars. Students with a Bachelor of Arts or Bachelor of Science in English have studied far more than literature and authors. English degrees can strengthen your analytical and critical thinking skills, improve your oral and written communication abilities, and expand your knowledge of humanities subjects. 

best Online Bachelor's in English

Online Schools Report is an advertising-supported site. Featured or trusted partner programs and all school search, finder, or match results are for schools that compensate us. This compensation does not influence our school rankings, resource guides, or other editorially-independent information published on this site.

What Is a Bachelor’s in English Degree?

An undergraduate degree in English can prepare students to enter journalism, law, public relations, technical and creative writing positions, social media, and, of course, teaching. Simply put, careers for English majors are more diverse than many may think. 

Skills developed while studying English serve students well. Most English curricula include studies in criticism, critical thinking, analysis, grammar, communications, and more. Perhaps, the best way to explain the breadth of professions English majors have entered is to recognize some of the successful and famous English majors. Included in the category are Barbara Walters, filmmaker Stephen Spielberg, Supreme Court Justice Clarence Thomas, former Disney CEO Michael Eisner, Senator Mitt Romney, and Pulitzer Prize Winner Journalist Bob Woodward. 

How Much Can You Earn With a Bachelor’s in English Degree?

Salaries for English majors will depend on what career path they choose. The Bureau of Labor Statistics estimates salaries for middle and high school teachers to range between $54,000-$61,000 per year, while postsecondary teachers bring in around $66,700 per year. Journalists can earn $64,600 per year, and public relations managers bring in between $55,800-$64,500 annually. In short, what career you pursue with an English degree and what salary you can receive will be up to your interests and ambition. 

What Is Required for a Bachelor’s in English Degree?

English is typically a course included in general education requirements for most undergraduate degrees from liberal arts to science. Bachelor of Arts in English will delve further into the subject. English majors will typically study American and British literature, poetry, fiction, and nonfiction, to name just a few of the topics covered. English degree programs frequently include studies in oral and written communications, critical thinking, creative composition, linguistics, and analysis.

If you intend to teach English at the secondary level, you’ll need teacher certification, which will usually require coursework in education. Additionally, college and university English professors will need a master’s or doctoral degree. 

What Are the Best Bachelor’s in English Degrees?

OSR uses six data points: three school-wide and three program-specific. For school-wide, OSR uses Student Satisfaction, Admission Rates, and the number of programs the school offers online. For program-specific, OSR checks the Median Debt of graduates from that program, how many degrees are offered within that program’s umbrella department, and what percentage of students at that school graduated from that department.

The six statistics are displayed by each school. The sliding bar under each statistic represents how that school compares to other US institutions. “Not reported” means a school did not release that information to the US Department of Education. A more detailed description of the OSR process can be found on the methodology page.

Southern New Hampshire University

Southern New Hampshire University

Quick Facts

  • Requires 120 Credit Hours
  • 100% Online
  • No Out-of-State Tuition 
Program Web Page

Schoolwide Rankings

Student Satisfaction

75%

Acceptance Rate

78%

Programs Offered Online

43

Median Debt

$21,654

Programs in Department

2

Popularity at School

6%

100%OSR Score

This is an online Bachelor of Arts in English Language and Literature. The program is designed to acquaint you with a wide range of classical literature and improve creative and critical thinking skills. The curriculum includes writing workshops, literature studies, and general education classes.

Ottawa University-Online

Ottawa University-Online

Quick Facts

  • Includes Secondary Education Concentration 
  • Requires 120 Credit Hours
  • Accepts Up to 80 Transfer Credits
Program Web Page

Schoolwide Rankings

Programs Offered Online

20

Programs in Department

2

Popularity at School

6%

95%OSR Score

You’ll earn a BA in English with this program. This is an online program with studies in writing (creative and expository), survey (analysis of literature and authors), linguistics, seminars, and a capstone project. You can be sure of the quality of education you’ll receive through this Kansas university, which has been offering degrees for over 150 years.

Arizona State University

Arizona State University

Quick Facts

  • Requires 120 Credit Hours
  • Ranked No. 6 among Best Online Bachelor’s Degrees by U.S. News & World Report
  • Features Award-Winning Faculty
Program Web Page

Schoolwide Rankings

Acceptance Rate

63%

Programs Offered Online

45

Programs in Department

2

Popularity at School

4%

92%OSR Score

If you want the opportunity to learn from Pulitzer Prize-winning or Nobel Laureate faculty, then the Arizona State University Liberal Arts faculty may be for you. In addition to liberal arts courses, this BA in English promises to cover communication, problem-solving, and analytical skills.

Louisiana State University-Alexandria

Quick Facts

  • Requires 120 Credit Hours
  • Features Low Tuition Costs
  • Accelerated Seven-Week Courses Available
Program Web Page

Schoolwide Rankings

Student Satisfaction

74%

Acceptance Rate

31%

Programs Offered Online

7

Median Debt

$17,061

Programs in Department

1

Popularity at School

4%

85%OSR Score

The online BA in English is offered through LSU-Alexandria and concentrates on creative writing, drama, poetry, and literary history. Through the coursework here, you’ll improve your creative thinking, communication, and writing skills. LSU orientation is provided online, and you can apply for financial aid.

Piedmont International University

Quick Facts

  • Incorporates Chrisitan Principles
  • Requires 120 Credit Hours
  • Financial Aid Available
Program Web Page

Schoolwide Rankings

Student Satisfaction

94%

Acceptance Rate

36%

Programs Offered Online

11

Programs in Department

1

Popularity at School

2%

84%OSR Score

You’ll want to explore this Bachelor of Science with a major in Secondary English Education if teaching is your career goal. Besides studies in literature and drama, you’ll study curriculum, instruction, and legal responsibilities of teaching in this program. This degree is offered through the Moore School of Education.

Saint Mary-of-the-Woods College

Saint Mary-of-the-Woods College

Quick Facts

  • Features Study-Abroad Option 
  • Oldest Catholic College in Indiana
  • Requires 120 Credit Hours
Program Web Page

Schoolwide Rankings

Student Satisfaction

82%

Acceptance Rate

76%

Programs Offered Online

27

Programs in Department

2

Popularity at School

2%

83%OSR Score

Known as “The Woods,” this college has an online BA in English requiring 43 credit hours for the major. Classes include studies in pop fiction, creative writing, women writers, and a senior thesis. The program also features a unique, semester-long study-abroad opportunity in London’s Regent’s College. 

University of Illinois at Springfield

University of Illinois- Springfield

Quick Facts

  • Requires 120 Credit Hours
  • Teacher Education Program Available
  • Offers Individual Advising
Program Web Page

Schoolwide Rankings

Student Satisfaction

73%

Acceptance Rate

52%

Programs Offered Online

11

Median Debt

$20,344

Programs in Department

1

Popularity at School

4%

81%OSR Score

The BA in English is offered through the English and Modern Languages Department of the University of Illinois Springfield. Topics you’ll study include linguistics, research methods, creative and fiction writing, and a capstone project. If you qualify, the department also has an Honors in English program.

Mary Baldwin University

Mary Baldwin University

Quick Facts

  • Features Robust Online Catalog
  • Requires 132 Credit Hours
  • Named One of U.S. News & World Report’s Best Online Bachelor’s Programs
Program Web Page

Schoolwide Rankings

Student Satisfaction

75%

Acceptance Rate

95%

Programs Offered Online

38

Median Debt

$24,731

Programs in Department

1

Popularity at School

6%

81%OSR Score

Established in 1842, Mary Baldwin University has an online Bachelor’s in English. In this program, you can minor in Creative Writing by studying under professors who are published authors. The department also co-sponsors the “Virginia Project” at Oxford University for which you may apply.

Southwestern Assemblies of God University

Quick Facts

  • Features Christian Teaching in the Classroom
  • Offers One-On-One Faculty Interaction 
  • Requires 120 Credit Hours
Program Web Page

Schoolwide Rankings

Student Satisfaction

77%

Acceptance Rate

28%

Programs Offered Online

27

Programs in Department

1

Popularity at School

1%

76%OSR Score

Located in Texas, Southwestern Assemblies of God University has an online undergraduate degree with an English major. The program encourages critical thinking, writing, literary studies, and more. You’ll need to demonstrate evidence of a born-again experience as part of the admission criteria.

University of Central Florida

University of Central Florida

Quick Facts

  • Requires 120 Credit Hours
  • A U.S. News & World Report Best Online Bachelor’s Program and Best Colleges for Veterans
  • Scholarships Available
Program Web Page

Schoolwide Rankings

Student Satisfaction

75%

Acceptance Rate

50%

Programs Offered Online

93

Median Debt

$20,103

Programs in Department

1

Popularity at School

2%

75%OSR Score

This BA in English Literature is designed to prepare graduates for a variety of professional careers in communications, law, or other fields. Here you’ll learn critical thinking, research, and writing skills as you study great English literature. UCF also provides success coaches who will personally advise you from application to graduation. 

University of Maryland Global Campus

Quick Facts

  • Requires 120 Credit Hours
  • Accepts Up to 90 Transfer Credits
  • Official Military-Friendly School
Program Web Page

Schoolwide Rankings

Student Satisfaction

73%

Programs Offered Online

31

Median Debt

$25,730

Programs in Department

1

Popularity at School

2%

73%OSR Score

Attending the University of Maryland Global Campus will enroll you in one of U.S. News & World Report’s Most Innovative Schools. The online BA in English program was designed with input from scholars, employers, and industry leaders. What’s more, completing this degree reduces the number of hours required for the MA in Teaching program.

Indiana University-East

Indiana University-East

Quick Facts

  • Degree Completion Program 
  • Requires 60 Credit Hours
  • Scholarships Available
Program Web Page

Schoolwide Rankings

Student Satisfaction

80%

Acceptance Rate

70%

Programs Offered Online

11

Median Debt

$22,635

Programs in Department

1

Popularity at School

3%

73%OSR Score

Here’s an online BA in English, Technical, and Professional Writing completion degree. You need 60 transferable credit hours to be admitted. This curriculum includes studies in English literature, writing composition, digital and technical writing, and much more. 

American Public University System

American Public University System

Quick Facts

  • Requires 120 Credit Hours
  • Accepts Up to 90 Transfer Credits
  • Courses Start Monthly
Program Web Page

Schoolwide Rankings

Student Satisfaction

73%

Programs Offered Online

45

Median Debt

$32,749

Programs in Department

1

Popularity at School

1%

71%OSR Score

In this program, you have the choice between pursuing a general English or writing concentration. Studies cover American and British fiction and poetry, analysis and research, and linguistics. Admission is straightforward, but you will need to provide a copy of a government-issued ID.

Western New Mexico University

Quick Facts

  • Offers English Degree as a BA or BS
  • Two Concentrations Available
  • Requires 120 Credit Hours
Program Web Page

Schoolwide Rankings

Student Satisfaction

79%

Programs Offered Online

13

Programs in Department

1

Popularity at School

2%

71%OSR Score

This BA or BS in English lets you choose between literature and writing concentrations. You’ll study Shakespeare; creative writing; World, British, and American literature; as well as an English capstone project. A great advantage to this program is having access to WNMU’s Writing Center for help with writing assignments. 

Ashford University

Ashford University

Quick Facts

  • Requires 120 Credit Hours
  • Features Five-Week Courses
  • Financial Aid Available
Program Web Page

Schoolwide Rankings

Student Satisfaction

69%

Programs Offered Online

54

Median Debt

$37,425

Programs in Department

1

Popularity at School

1%

71%OSR Score

Ashford University has an online BA in English that focuses on English literature. Goals of this degree are to provide you an overview of literary genres, creative writing skills, and application of research. You’ll take one course at a time and will have 24/7 tech support and tutoring available. 

University of Maine at Presque Isle

Quick Facts

  • Requires 120 Credit Hours
  • Offers Free Tuition for Maine Residents
  • Features Rolling Application
Program Web Page

Schoolwide Rankings

Student Satisfaction

78%

Acceptance Rate

95%

Programs Offered Online

4

Programs in Department

1

Popularity at School

3%

71%OSR Score

You may not have heard much of this school, but it ranks No. 4 on U.S. News & World Report’s list of the Most Innovative Schools. This school offers a BA in English with a general concentration. The degree covers world literature, professional writing, and literary and film analysis, to name only a few of the subjects. 

University of Massachusetts-Lowell

Quick Facts

  • Accepts Up To 90 Transfer Credits
  • Requires 120 Credit Hours
  • Ranked Among the Best Online Bachelor’s Programs by U.S. News & World Report
Program Web Page

Schoolwide Rankings

Student Satisfaction

74%

Acceptance Rate

69%

Programs Offered Online

12

Median Debt

$24,588

Programs in Department

1

Popularity at School

2%

70%OSR Score

Here’s an online BA in English that delves into American and British literature, research and writing best practices, and studies in critical methods. Topics for this degree include Chaucer, Shakespeare, literary traditions, as well as electives in drama, comedy, women novelists, and more.

California Baptist University

California Baptist University

Quick Facts

  • Requires 124 Credit Hours
  • Features Accelerated Classes
  • Transfer Friendly
Program Web Page

Schoolwide Rankings

Student Satisfaction

78%

Acceptance Rate

77%

Programs Offered Online

23

Median Debt

$27,583

Programs in Department

1

Popularity at School

2%

70%OSR Score

This school aims to help you develop a Christian approach to literature with its BA in English. You’ll study a wide range of subjects including American, British, and children’s literature, theory and criticism, language structure, creative writing, and more. On top of that, you’ll have a personal admission counselor to work with you step by step as you aim to join this excellent program.

Great Basin College

Quick Facts

  • Requires 120 Credit Hours
  • Coursework Is 100% Online
  • Features Open Admission Policies
Program Web Page

Schoolwide Rankings

Student Satisfaction

75%

Programs Offered Online

12

Programs in Department

1

Popularity at School

0%

70%OSR Score

Located in Nevada, Great Basin University offers a BA in English. The program is designed to provide you with a variety of skills in problem solving, communication, and critical thinking. You’ll study nonfiction, Shakespeare, modern grammar, as well as digital composition and literacy.

Granite State College

Granite State College

Quick Facts

  • Features Multiple Teacher Certification Options
  • Requires 120 Credit Hours
  • Hybrid Program
Program Web Page

Schoolwide Rankings

Student Satisfaction

59%

Programs Offered Online

32

Programs in Department

1

Popularity at School

0%

70%OSR Score

Located in New Hampshire, Granite State University offers a BA in English Language Arts. Unlike some English degrees, this program is designed for teacher certification in Early Childhood Education (and Special Ed), Elementary Ed, and General Special Ed. You should confirm, however, that this program is recognized by your state’s teacher-licensing board prior to applying. 

National University

National University

Quick Facts

  • Features Four-Week Classes
  • Requires 180 Quarter Hours
  • Features Year-Round Enrollment
Program Web Page

Schoolwide Rankings

Student Satisfaction

71%

Programs Offered Online

46

Median Debt

$29,659

Programs in Department

1

Popularity at School

1%

70%OSR Score

National University offers two tracks with this undergraduate English degree: Communication and Analysis. If your goal is to teach, you can also enroll in the teacher-credential preparation. Should you pursue the teaching-credential, you’ll be equiped to educate students in California (and beyond) on all the great pieces of literature.

King University

King University

Quick Facts

  • Admission requires 45 Semester Credits
  • Christian Based University 
  • Requires 124 Credit Hours
Program Web Page

Schoolwide Rankings

Student Satisfaction

77%

Acceptance Rate

51%

Programs Offered Online

15

Programs in Department

1

Popularity at School

1%

69%OSR Score

Located in Tennessee, King University has an online BA in English. In addition to general education courses, your major will cover topics in religion and literature, Shakespeare, literature and the christian imagination, as well as modern and contemporary American literature. 

The Baptist College of Florida

The Baptist College of Florida

Quick Facts

  • Requires 120 Credit Hours
  • Low 9:1 Student-to-Faculty Ratio
  • 100% Online
Program Web Page

Schoolwide Rankings

Student Satisfaction

76%

Acceptance Rate

62%

Programs Offered Online

14

Programs in Department

1

Popularity at School

1%

69%OSR Score

At The Baptist College of Florida, you’ll study a wide range of English subjects such as creative nonfiction, short stories, and British and American literature. The degree also requires 12 credit hours of Biblical and theological courses. In applying to this program, you’ll need a recommendation from your church and pastor.

Clayton State University

Clayton State University

Quick Facts

  • Internships Available 
  • Features Writers’ Studio
  • Requires 120 Credit Hours
Program Web Page

Schoolwide Rankings

Student Satisfaction

74%

Acceptance Rate

42%

Programs Offered Online

8

Median Debt

$31,095

Programs in Department

1

Popularity at School

2%

68%OSR Score

Clayton State University not only offers an online BA in English but provides additional degree enhancement as well. As an online student, you can participate in an internship in tutoring or social media. You’ll also have access to the Writers’ Studio where you can work with a peer consultant on a variety of writing issues.

University of Phoenix-Arizona

University of Phoenix

Quick Facts

  • Requires 120 Credit Hours
  • Features Tuition Guarantee 
  • Accepts Military Training & Experience As Credit
Program Web Page

Schoolwide Rankings

Student Satisfaction

75%

Programs Offered Online

36

Median Debt

$39,047

Programs in Department

1

Popularity at School

1%

68%OSR Score

This BA in English covers a variety of topics in linguistics, English language history, folklore and fairytales, and British and American literature. Throughout your coursework, you’ll also gain critical thinking and communication skills. As you finish the program and look toward like after graduation, the school provides beneficial career services.

University of Memphis

Quick Facts

  • Two Concentrations Available
  • Requires 120 Credit Hours
  • Ranked among U.S. News & World Report’s Top Public Schools
Program Web Page

Schoolwide Rankings

Student Satisfaction

76%

Acceptance Rate

85%

Programs Offered Online

18

Median Debt

$26,206

Programs in Department

1

Popularity at School

2%

68%OSR Score

If you’re completing your BA in English online, you can choose between concentrations in either African American Literature or Professional Writing. The literature concentration focuses on African American literature before and after the Harlem Renaissance. Alternatively, the Professional Writing concentration will include online writing, technical and professional writing, as well as composition.

Columbia College

Columbia College Missouri

Quick Facts

  • Two Emphasis Areas Available
  • Requires 120 Credit Hours
  • Private, For-Profit Institution
Program Web Page

Schoolwide Rankings

Student Satisfaction

74%

Programs Offered Online

23

Median Debt

$25,784

Programs in Department

1

Popularity at School

1%

67%OSR Score

In this program, you’ll take general education courses, including an ethics course, as well as English courses for this BA in English. The department offers an emphasis in Literature and Creative Writing with its online program. What’s more, this school is military friendly and offers special scholarships for veterans. 

Mercy College

Mercy College

Quick Facts

  • Requires 120 Credit Hours
  • Accepts Up To 75 Transfer Credits
  • BS/MA Teacher Education Dual Program
Program Web Page

Schoolwide Rankings

Student Satisfaction

77%

Acceptance Rate

79%

Programs Offered Online

15

Median Debt

$27,961

Programs in Department

1

Popularity at School

2%

66%OSR Score

Classes in this BA in English degree cover Chaucer, Shakespeare, Milton, the Bible as literature, multicultural literature, and more. You’ll also be required to take a minimum of one course in Literary Genres, Historical Periods, Classical Texts, or Social and Cultural Texts. 

Heritage University

Quick Facts

  • Requires 120 Credit Hours
  • 91% of Students Qualify For Financial Aid 
  • No Application Fee
Program Web Page

Schoolwide Rankings

Student Satisfaction

75%

Programs Offered Online

1

Programs in Department

1

Popularity at School

1%

66%OSR Score

Major courses in this BA in English include Literary Theory, American Literature, Shakespeare, Play Production, Native American Literature, Literature by Women, as well as a Senior Thesis. What’s more, first year applicants are required to take a university placement test to determine their level of proficiency.

Chaminade University of Honolulu

Chaminade University of Honolulu

Quick Facts

  • Three Concentrations Available
  • Requires 120 Credit Hours
  • Offers $5,000 Online Scholarship
Program Web Page

Schoolwide Rankings

Student Satisfaction

75%

Acceptance Rate

92%

Programs Offered Online

10

Programs in Department

1

Popularity at School

2%

64%OSR Score

At Chaminade University of Honolulu, you’re able to choose from three concentrations: Literature and Criticism, Writing, or Teaching. The major requires courses like Background in American Literature, Background in British Literature, and a Senior Seminar (Capstone Project). In order to pursue a program concentration, you may need to complete several prerequisite courses.

Midway University

Midway University

Quick Facts

  • Features Accelerated Eight-Week Classes
  • Offers Credit For Prior Learning
  • Requires 120 Credit Hours
Program Web Page

Schoolwide Rankings

Acceptance Rate

57%

Programs Offered Online

19

Programs in Department

1

63%OSR Score

Students in Midway University’s online BA in English have access to the Student Success Center and Career Services. You’ll study general education classes and English survey courses in British and American literature, creative writing, professional writing, and much more. Another benefit of enrolling here is that Midway has a simplified admission process.  

Troy University

Troy University

Quick Facts

  • Requires 120 Credit Hours
  • Features Nine-Week Terms
  • Over 20 Years Offering Online Education
Program Web Page

Schoolwide Rankings

Student Satisfaction

76%

Acceptance Rate

88%

Programs Offered Online

18

Median Debt

$28,046

Programs in Department

1

Popularity at School

1%

62%OSR Score

Started in 1887 in Alabama, Troy University has an online BS in English that offers a Professional Writing concentration. English topics cover American and British literature,  grammar, and a senior seminar. Online scholarships are available for qualifying transfer students, as are tuition discounts for military members and their families.

West Virginia State University

Quick Facts

  • Requires 120 Credit Hours
  • Recognized Among Historically Black Colleges and Universities
  • Features Technical Writing Concentration
Program Web Page

Schoolwide Rankings

Student Satisfaction

79%

Acceptance Rate

98%

Programs Offered Online

5

Median Debt

$27,500

Programs in Department

1

Popularity at School

2%

61%OSR Score

This BA in English will prepare you in analytical and critical thinking and will train you in a variety of writing genres. Courses cover desktop publishing, writing technical reports, and grammatical proficiency. WVSU ranks No. 39 among U.S. News & World Report’s Historically Black Colleges and Universities and No. 10 among Top Public Schools.

Clarion University of Pennsylvania

Clarion University of Pennsylvania

Quick Facts

  • Top Public School by U.S. News & World Report
  • Requires 120 Credit Hours
  • Official Military-Friendly School
Program Web Page

Schoolwide Rankings

Student Satisfaction

73%

Acceptance Rate

95%

Programs Offered Online

12

Median Debt

$27,053

Programs in Department

1

Popularity at School

1%

60%OSR Score

Clarion University has online programs in BA in English, presented as “branches.” These branches include Creative Writing, Literature, Writing, and Linguistics. You can pursue teacher certification as well and should contact the English department for specific requirements. In addition, the school offers career and professional development assistance.

Nicholls State University

Quick Facts

  • Three Concentrations Available
  • Requires 120 Credit Hours
  • No. 38 among U.S. News & World Report’s Top Public Schools
Program Web Page

Schoolwide Rankings

Student Satisfaction

77%

Acceptance Rate

94%

Programs Offered Online

7

Median Debt

$24,898

Programs in Department

1

Popularity at School

1%

60%OSR Score

In this English program, you can choose from concentrations in Creative Writing, Literary Studies, or Writing and Rhetoric. The program offers numerous electives covering literature genres such as fiction, poetry, and film, too. If you’re interested in teaching following graduation, Nicholls State includes a teacher-certification option in this program.

Online Schools Report is an advertising-supported site. Featured or trusted partner programs and all school search, finder, or match results are for schools that compensate us. This compensation does not influence our school rankings, resource guides, or other editorially-independent information published on this site.