The best online bachelor’s in English degrees prepare graduates for careers in writing, editing, digital marketing, law, publishing, education, and corporate communication. With remote work expanding and employers prioritizing communication skills, English majors are seeing strong career flexibility across industries. According to federal labor data, technical writing and public relations roles offer six-figure earning potential, while editing and media careers remain stable nationwide.
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English Degree Salary Comparison
| Career Path | Median Salary | Job Growth (2024–2034 est.) | Remote Potential | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Technical Writer | ~$79,000 | 7–10% | High | Strong demand in tech & healthcare |
| Editor | ~$73,000 | 2–5% | Moderate | Publishing + digital media |
| Public Relations Manager | ~$129,000+ | 6% | Moderate | Leadership role, high ceiling |
| Human Resources Manager | ~$130,000+ | 5–7% | Moderate | English majors often pivot via HR certification |
| High School Teacher | ~$62,000 | 1–3% | Low | Requires licensure |
| Lawyer (with JD) | ~$135,000+ | 8% | Low | English is strong pre-law major |
ROI Snapshot
- Average total online tuition range (public institutions): $15,000–$45,000 total
- Break-even timeline in mid-career roles: 3–6 years
- Graduate school pathway (law, MBA, MFA) significantly increases earning ceiling
How We Ranked the Best Online Bachelor’s in English Programs (2026)
We reviewed approximately 90 accredited colleges and universities offering fully or primarily online bachelor’s in English degrees. Programs were evaluated using publicly available data sources, including:
- National Center for Education Statistics (NCES)
- Integrated Postsecondary Education Data System (IPEDS)
- U.S. News & World Report rankings
- Institutional accreditation databases
- Published tuition rates (2025–2026 academic year)
Ranking Criteria and Weights
| Criteria | Weight |
|---|---|
| Affordability (cost per credit) | 35% |
| Institutional Accreditation | 20% |
| National or Regional Rankings | 15% |
| Program Flexibility (100% online, transfer credits, pacing) | 15% |
| Academic Strength (concentrations, faculty, curriculum breadth) | 15% |
Here are our 15 best online bachelor’s in English degrees. In-state tuition is listed. May be more for out of state tuition. Scholarships may be available to lower the cost.
Quick Comparison: Top Online English Programs
| School | Cost Per Credit | Concentration Options | 100% Online | Transfer Credits | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| University of Central Florida | $129 | Creative Writing | Yes | Limited | Most Affordable |
| Indiana University East | $257 | Technical & Professional Writing | Yes | Yes | Technical Writing Focus |
| Thomas Edison State University | $319 | Literature-Focused | Yes | Generous | Adult Learners |
| Florida International University | $235 | Writing & Rhetoric | Yes | Moderate | Career-Focused Writing |
| University of Maryland Global Campus | $330 | General English | Yes | Yes | Working Professionals |
| Southern New Hampshire University | $342 | General English | Yes | Yes | Accelerated Terms |
| University of Missouri | $597 | General English | Yes | Up to 60 | Transfer-Friendly |
#1 – University of Central Florida
Online Bachelor’s in English – Creative Writing
Orlando, Florida
Undergraduate Tuition: $129/credit
The University of Central Florida’s College of Arts and Humanities offers an accredited online English degree that prepares students for careers in:
- editing
- law
- publishing
- teaching
Classes are delivered online and taught by the same professors who teach on campus. Online courses include:
- American literature
- creative writing for English majors
- English literature
- research and writing about literature
- theory and practice of creative writing
- writing for the technical professional
A total of 120 credits are required for the online bachelor’s degree program. The school is fully accredited and nationally ranked. It is ranked by U.S. News and World Report. UCF is the most affordable school on our list to offer an online bachelor’s in English degree.
#2 – Indiana University
Online Bachelor’s in English, Technical and Professional Writing
Richmond, Indiana
Undergraduate Tuition: $257/credit
Indiana University East offers an affordable online English bachelor’s with an emphasis in technical and professional writing. The program is for busy individuals who require flexible course schedules. It’s for those who want a career in various forms of media, such as advertising or public relations. Classes are delivered online. They cover topics such as:
- advanced technical writing
- American fiction to 1900
- introduction to the English language
- literary interpretation
- professional writing skills
No course with a grade below a 2.0 (C average) is accepted in the major or concentration area. Indiana University East is fully accredited. It with U.S. News and World Report as the 119th-156th best regional university in the Midwest.
#3 – Thomas Edison State University
Online Bachelor’s in English
Trenton, New Jersey
Undergraduate Tuition: $319/credit
The online bachelor’s in English program at Thomas Edison State University prepares adults for:
- career advancement
- change
- entry into a graduate degree program
English language, literature, and literacy devices are explored in various online courses. English courses cover a number of relevant topics, such as:
- analysis and interpretation of literature
- nonwestern literature
- survey of literature
Some of the interesting electives offered in this major include:
- Asian literature
- Chaucer
- literary criticism
- modern drama
- regional literature
- science fiction
- social protest literature
In addition to being fully accredited, Thomas Edison has earned recognition from major publications like U.S. News and World Report.
#4 – Louisiana State University
Online Bachelor’s in English
Alexandria, Louisiana
Undergraduate Tuition: $340/credit
Interested in an accredited online English literature degree? Louisiana State University offers a 100% online bachelor’s in English that provides a thorough understanding of:
- English composition
- language
- literature
- other relevant principles
Students must complete all major requirements, and a total of 120 credits online. English courses include:
- American literature
- British literature
- English grammar
- poetry
- the novel
- Shakespeare
#5 – Florida International University
Online Bachelor’s in English
Miami, Florida
Undergraduate Tuition: $235/credit
Florida International University offers an online bachelor’s in English with a concentration in writing and rhetoric. The writing and rhetoric track expands on the English language curriculum. It brings a more career-focused objective to the program. Courses cover interesting and relevant topics like:
- advanced business writing
- approaches to literature
- creative writing forms and practices
- professional and technical writing
- writing and new media
- writing about the environment
To apply to the program, applicants must provide official:
- college transcripts
- high school transcripts
- SAT or ACT scores
#6 – University of Maryland Global Campus
Online Bachelor’s in English
Adelphi, Maryland
Undergraduate Tuition: $330/credit
The University of Maryland University Global Campus offers an affordable online English degree for working students who want to earn an online bachelor’s in English. Curriculum covers theories and real-world applications in language, literature, and writing. It prepares students for careers in various areas of writing and communication. Online courses are taught by the same university professors who teach on campus. These courses cover topics in:
- critical approaches to literature
- history of the English language
- modern American literature
- Renaissance literature
- Shakespeare studies
#7 – Eastern Oregon University
Online Bachelor’s in English and Writing
La Grande, Oregon
Undergraduate Tuition: $328/credit
Eastern Oregon University offers an accredited online English degree that focuses on the English language and writing. Students acquire the foundation needed to pursue a master’s in fine arts (MFA) or another graduate humanities degree. Classes are delivered online, with many taught by the same professors who instruct on campus. These courses cover topics like:
- American and British literature
- approaches to grammar
- introduction to fiction writing
- professional writing
- rhetoric of public culture
- writing in the community
#8 – King University
Online Bachelor’s in English
Bristol, Tennessee
Undergraduate Tuition: $350/credit
The bachelor’s in English online program at King University offers students a chance to hone their studies toward a particular area of interest beyond the traditional English degree. The program emphasizes the understanding of language and literature. It delves into an expansive range of authors, styles, and subjects. Some of the topics covered in the program include:
- adolescent literature
- Appalachian literature
- composition and rhetoric
- grammar and style
- religion and literature
- Shakespeare
The program and school are fully accredited. In addition to King’s accreditation, the school has earned rankings with U.S. News and World Report. King ranks #47 in best regional universities in the South and #3 in best value schools.
#9 – Liberty University
Online Bachelor’s in English and Writing
Lynchburg, Virginia
Undergraduate Tuition: $390/credit
Liberty University offers a 100% online English and writing bachelor’s degree. It’s designed to accommodate busy and working students interested in becoming:
- educators
- journalists
- writers
With Liberty’s SACSCOC accreditation and rankings with U.S. News and World Report, the school has remained a strong contender among top Christian institutions. The online English degree takes about 3.5 years to complete. Classes run eight weeks in length. Courses cover topics like:
- American realism and naturalism
- composition and literature
- introduction to creative writing
- modern grammar
As stated above, Liberty ranks with major publications like U.S. News and World Report as one of the top national universities in the country.
#10 – Regent University
Online Bachelor’s in English
Virginia Beach, Virginia
Undergraduate Tuition: $395
Regent University’s accredited online English degree is a versatile program that allows students to choose from seven areas of concentration. Depending on interests and career goals, students focus their studies on areas like:
- biblical studies
- communication
- government
- Hispanic studies
- history (both U.S. and European)
- self-designed
- writing
The self-designed concentration offers a strong foundation in literature and composition while allowing for more customization than other areas of focus. Some of the core courses include:
- British literature
- Shakespeare
- the art of the essay
#11 – National University
Online Bachelor’s in English
La Jolla, California
Undergraduate Tuition: $370/credit
National University offers an accredited online English bachelor’s degree program that provides students with a strong background in English and literature. Through coursework and independent study, students develop:
- communication skills
- critical thinking skills
- written skills
These skills are often needed for careers in:
- advertising
- education
- publishing
- writing
Online courses cover topics relevant to English communication and literature. These courses include:
- American literature
- British literature
- fiction writing
- poetry writing
- screenwriting
- twentieth-century world literature
In addition to its accreditation, National University is ranked with major publications like U.S. News and World Report. In fact, the most recent edition of Best Colleges ranks National’s online bachelor’s programs #164 out of more than 1,200 surveyed.
#12 – Nicholls State University
Online Bachelor’s in English
Thibodaux, Louisiana
Undergraduate Tuition: $402/credit
Nicholls State University offers an accredited online English bachelor’s degree with several concentration options. Students may tailor their degree to align with career goals and interests by earning a concentration in:
- children’s and young adult literature
- creative writing
- film studies
- literary studies
- writing and rhetoric
Students are required to take courses that explore the English classics like American, British, and world literatures. They also explore topics in literary genres like:
- drama
- film
- novels
- short fiction
#13 – Grand Canyon University
Online Bachelor’s in English
Phoenix, Arizona
Undergraduate Tuition: $465/credit
Grand Canyon University’s uniquely designed online English degree is open to aspiring English teachers seeking licensure. In fact, the online bachelor’s in English for secondary education leads to initial teacher licensure. Some of the core courses that aspiring teachers take cover topics like:
- American encounter narratives
- data-driven instructional methods for middle and secondary teachers
- SEI English language teaching
- Shakespeare and the history of drama
GCU’s English for secondary education can be completed entirely online and with no campus visits.
#14- Southern New Hampshire University
Online Bachelor’s in English
Manchester, New Hampshire
Undergraduate Tuition: $342/credit
Southern New Hampshire University offers an accredited online bachelor’s in English degree. It prepares students with communication and research skills commonly required by employers in a variety of industries. Classes are delivered entirely online and provide 24/7 access to content and coursework. Students may complete their coursework by working at their own pace over six, nine-week terms per year. Online classes cover topics like:
- introduction to humanities
- literary theory
- nonfiction writing workshop
- Shakespeare
- the English language
SNHU is fully accredited and ranked by major publications like U.S. News and World Report.
#15 – University of Missouri
Online Bachelor’s in English
Columbia, Missouri
Undergraduate Tuition: $597
At the University of Missouri, students can explore their passion for reading and writing by majoring in English. The online bachelor’s in English program prepares students to communicate clearly and creatively through verbal and written word, as well as to understand literary and cultural works across history. Delivery of the program is 100% online. Adding to its flexibility, the program accepts up to 60 transfer credits. Course work covers a range of English and literature topics including:
- creative writing
- history of the English language
- research methods
- writing about literature
Remote Careers for English Majors
One of the biggest advantages of an online English degree is career flexibility. Many English-major roles transitioned successfully to remote and hybrid formats.
High-Demand Remote Roles
Technical Writer
Creates documentation for software, medical, engineering, and corporate systems. Strong demand in tech and healthcare sectors.
UX Writer / Content Designer
Writes interface text for apps and digital platforms. Growing role in SaaS and AI companies.
Content Strategist
Develops editorial calendars, SEO content, and brand messaging for companies and agencies.
Grant Writer
Prepares funding proposals for nonprofits, universities, and healthcare systems.
Remote ESL Instructor
Teaches English virtually to global learners.
Digital Marketing Specialist
Combines writing with analytics, SEO, and social media strategy.
Trend Insight (2026): Employers increasingly prioritize communication clarity in AI-assisted environments, boosting demand for skilled editors and content professionals.
Frequently Asked Questions
What can you do with an online bachelor’s in English degree?
An English degree is versatile. The degree prepares students with the skills necessary to work in various industries. In fact, graduates with an online bachelor’s in English can utilize their skills to acquire jobs in:
- business
- education
- government
- journalism
- law
- nonprofit sector
- publishing
Graduates may pursue master’s degrees in English or attend law school. Below are several career paths one might choose while pursuing an online bachelor’s in English degree.
Editor
A bachelor’s degree in English is typically required for work as an editor. Editors are responsible for planning, revising, and sometimes writing publishable content. They must have strong computer skills and an eagle eye for catching errors. A strong grasp of the English language is essential for this role.
High School English Teacher
To work as a high school English teacher, you must have a bachelor’s degree in English or education. Education majors seeking English teacher roles may specialize their studies by adding a concentration in English or literature. State issued licensing or certification is also required.
Writer or Author
Writers and authors create content for all types of media, including:
- advertisements
- books
- film scripts, and more
They may work from home, or partly from home. Full-time positions generally require a bachelor’s degree in English or a closely related field.
Can you make good money with an English degree?
BLS lists the median salary for an English major as $60,000.
Monster.com recently published an article on the best-paying jobs for English majors. Their findings concluded that public relations managers and human resource managers were among the top-paying jobs for individuals who majored in English. These roles see above average salaries with earnings in the six figures. However, certain factors impact earnings potential for individuals with an English degree.
What specializations are available in bachelor’s in English online degree programs?
Some of the most common, and popular, specializations offered in English degree programs include:
- creative writing
- literature
- professional writing
- technical communication
- technical writing
What professional associations can I join while earning a bachelor’s in English online degree?
While earning an online bachelor’s in English degree, students may choose to join a professional association. Associations available to students allow them to connect with professionals with similar career ambitions and academic backgrounds. Membership to these organizations is open to students, often with membership fee reductions. These associations provide a wide range of benefits and perks, including:
- access to job boards
- networking events
- connection with peers and professionals.
Society for Technical Communication (STC)
The STC is mostly made up of students and professionals working or seeking employment in the field of technical communications. This is an organization designed for technical writers. However, other writing professionals may find a number of benefits offered. Some of the association’s perks include:
- a job bank
- mentor board
- access to online publications.
Open to novelists, journalists, and poets, the Authors Guild is the oldest and largest community for writers. Since 1912, the Guild has offered assistance and advocacy for writers on issues like:
- copyright infringement
- free speech
- taxes
Discounted memberships are available to students.
The National Council of Teachers of English (NCTE)
The NCTE consists of more than 25,000 English and language arts teachers, including student teachers. NCTE members receive access to:
- journals and webinars
- lesson plans
- practical instructional ideas
NCTE also offers public advocacy and research assistance.
What courses are typical in online bachelor’s in English degree programs?
Students enrolled in online bachelor’s in English degree programs hone their skills in:
- critical thinking
- reading
- writing skills
They learn to effectively communicate complex ideas through spoken, written, and visual media. Depending on the program, students may spend some of their time learning contemporary tools and skills needed to publish across various digital platforms.
Traditional English programs focus on reading a wide range of texts. From poetry to nonfiction, students read classics and contemporary works. Time is spent:
- discussing literary themes and ideas
- writing expository and analytical essays
- understanding prose
In creative writing courses, students participate in writing workshops that allow them to submit their work for criticism. In the classroom, students may be required to read their work aloud and receive gentle criticism from peers and faculty. The point of criticism is to expose students to the publishing industry. They learn to receive feedback and apply aspects to help hone their craft. Of course, not all feedback is necessary. Students learn in the classroom how to approach feedback with a writer’s eye.
Other classes offered in online English degree programs cover composition and professional writing topics. Students may also take courses in linguistics. All writing courses help prepare students with the competencies needed to work as a professional writer.
Is an online bachelor’s in English degree respected?
Yes. An online English degree from a regionally accredited university is respected the same as an on-campus degree. Employers typically evaluate the institution’s accreditation and reputation—not the delivery format. Many top public universities now offer fully online English programs taught by the same faculty as campus courses.
Is an English degree worth it in 2026?
An English degree is worth it for students seeking careers in writing, digital marketing, education, law, publishing, business communication, or graduate study. While early salaries may start modestly, mid-career growth in management, law, and corporate roles can exceed six figures. Specialization significantly improves earning potential.
What is the highest-paying job for English majors?
Some of the highest-paying jobs for English majors include public relations manager, human resources manager, technical writer, and lawyer (with a JD). PR and HR managers often earn over $129,000 annually, while attorneys typically earn $135,000 or more, depending on location and experience.
Can I become a technical writer with a bachelor’s in English?
Yes. A bachelor’s in English—especially with coursework in professional or technical writing—provides strong preparation for technical writing roles. Employers value clarity, research ability, and structured communication. Adding certifications or industry knowledge in technology or healthcare increases competitiveness.
Can I work remotely with an English degree?
Yes. Many English-degree careers offer remote or hybrid flexibility. Roles such as technical writer, editor, content strategist, grant writer, UX writer, and digital marketing specialist frequently operate in remote environments, particularly within technology, SaaS, healthcare, and online media companies.
Is English a good major for law school?
English is considered a strong pre-law major because it develops analytical reading, persuasive writing, and argument construction skills. Law schools value applicants who demonstrate strong communication abilities, and English majors often perform well on reading-intensive sections of the LSAT.
How long does it take to complete an online English degree?
Most online bachelor’s in English programs require 120 credits and take four years to complete full time. Accelerated online formats may allow students to graduate in three to three-and-a-half years, especially if transfer credits are accepted.
Related Resources:
- The Best Degree for Adults Returning to College
- Top 10 Best Majors for Indecisive Students
- Ultimate Guide to Liberal Arts Degrees and Careers
- What is the Best Degree for Becoming a High School English Teacher?
BDP Staff
February 2026