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In this article, we profile the 30 best online bachelor’s in English degrees from some of the nation’s top-ranked institutions.
English majors do more than lose themselves in a good book. While classical and contemporary literature is a primary focus, an accredited English program equips students with analytical, communication, and writing skills. These skills can be carried into a variety of careers. Many English majors pursue education, law, or even publishing. Quality online programs are now offered from top-ranked colleges and universities. Students can continue to work and balance daytime obligations while earning their online English degree.
Methodology for the 30 Best Online Bachelor’s in English Degree Programs
We reviewed about 90 accredited colleges and universities that offered online bachelor’s in English degree programs. We selected schools that had received rankings from major publications like U.S. News and World Report. Some of the schools on our list received regional and national rankings. Others earned recognition for having one of the best online bachelor’s programs in the country.
We then chose the most affordable of these recognized institutions based on the in-state undergraduate tuition/fees listed by NCES College Navigator. Our #1 spot went to the most affordable program.
Here are our 30 best online bachelor’s in English degrees.
#30 – California Baptist University
Online Bachelor’s in English
Riverside, California
Undergraduate Tuition: $36,340
California Baptist University, a top-ranked regional institution, offers an accredited online bachelor’s in English. The WASC-accredited program prepares students who want to be well-versed in writing and literature. Graduates of the online English degree have gone on to secure careers as:
- lawyers
- librarians
- public relations specialists
- teachers
The program moves at an accelerated pace. The average completion time of just 16 months, making it one of the fastest programs on our list. Courses are delivered online and cover topics like:
- introduction to literature
- language structure and acquisition
- literary theory and criticism
- modern American literature
CBU fully accredited. It ranks with U.S. News and World Report as the 40th best regional university in the West and 25th best value school.
#29 – King University
Online Bachelor’s in English
Bristol, Tennessee
Undergraduate Tuition: $31,840
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.
#28 – Saint Mary-of-the-Woods College
Online Bachelor’s in English
Saint Mary of the Woods, Indiana
Undergraduate Tuition: $31,150
At Saint Mary-of-the-Woods College, English majors have the opportunity to acquire skills that last a lifetime. The online bachelor’s in English prepares students for meaningful careers in various fields like:
- education
- law
- business
Students may opt to study abroad in London at Regent’s College for a semester or for a summer. They can earn a minor in one of the language disciplines offered. While the program is delivered online, students have access to everything traditional students experience. Courses in the major cover topics like:
- advanced studies in poetry
- British literature
- modern world literature
- women writers
SMWC is fully accredited. The school ranks with U.S. News and World Report as the 46th best regional university in the Midwest.
#27 – Maryville University of Saint Louis
Online Bachelor’s in English
Saint Louis, Missouri
Undergraduate Tuition: $27,166
Maryville University of Saint Louis offers an accredited bachelor’s in English online degree program that prepares students for a variety of career paths. While earning the online English degree, students may also choose to minor in one of the diverse disciplines offered. Popular minors for English majors at Maryville include:
- education
- law
- marketing
- media
- psychology
- tech, and more
Courses are delivered entirely online and taught by the same professors who instruct on campus. The program is also highly customizable. It allows students to align classes to fit with career goals by exploring electives. Maryville is ranked with U.S. News and World Report as the 196th best national university in the country.
#26 – Liberty University
Online Bachelor’s in English and Writing
Lynchburg, Virginia
Undergraduate Tuition: $21,587
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.
#25 – Mercy College
Online Bachelor’s in English
Dobbs Ferry, New York
Undergraduate Tuition: $20,558
The online bachelor’s in English degree program at Mercy College builds a strong foundation in critical thinking and communication. That foundation can be applied in:
- education
- publication
- other writing industries
Students begin their studies taking foundational courses in poetics and survey of English literature. Later they explore topics in:
- the classics
- genres
- historical fiction and nonfiction
Courses may include:
- Caribbean literature
- classical literature
- medieval literature
- modern American fiction
- Shakespeare’s tragedies
- the major English romantics
Mercy College is ranked by major publications like U.S. News and World Report and fully accredited. Current rankings for the institution include #136-#176 in best regional universities in the North.
#24 – Regent University
Online Bachelor’s in English
Virginia Beach, Virginia
Undergraduate Tuition: $18,720
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
Regent is a nationally ranked institution. U.S. News and World Report ranks the school among the top national universities. Also, Regent’s online bachelor’s programs rank #53 out of more than 1,200 programs surveyed.
#23 – Grand Canyon University
Online Bachelor’s in English
Phoenix, Arizona
Undergraduate Tuition: $17,800
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. In addition to being accredited, GCU ranks with U.S. News and World Report as the 298th-389th best national university and 39th in top performers on social mobility.
#22 – Salem University
Online Bachelor’s in English Education
Salem, West Virginia
Undergraduate Tuition: $16,900
Salem University is a top-ranked, for-profit institution in Salem, West Virginia. Students may earn an online bachelor’s in English education. The program prepares students to put their passions for the English language to use in:
- education
- nonprofit
- teaching
- writing careers
Courses are delivered in a monthly, four-week format, which may be completed entirely online. Some of the courses cover topics like:
- cultural impact for language learning
- drama and poetry
- educational psychology
- multicultural literature
- structural grammar
- written English
As indicated above, Salem University ranks with major publications like U.S. News and World Report. Current rankings include #103-#133 in best regional universities in the South.
#21 – University of Massachusetts
Online Bachelor’s in English
Lowell, Massachusetts
Undergraduate Tuition: $15,698
The University of Massachusetts Lowell offers an online English bachelor’s program that prepares students for careers in creative or professional writing. The program is offered entirely online. Courses are taught by the same professors who teach on the Lowell campus. Online courses cover topics like:
- British literary traditions
- history of the English language
- introduction to literary theory
- old English language and literature
- theories of rhetoric and composition
There is also a foreign language requirement that includes completing courses that follow two available tracks of study. UMass is an accredited and nationally ranked institution. U.S. News and World Report ranks the school as the 176th best national university. Also, the online bachelor’s programs rank #31 out of more than 1,200 surveyed programs.
#20 – National University
Online Bachelor’s in English
La Jolla, California
Undergraduate Tuition: $13,320
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.
#19 – University of Illinois
Online Bachelor’s in English and Modern Languages
Springfield, Illinois
Undergraduate Tuition: $11,911
The University of Illinois at Springfield offers an affordable online English degree. It’s for busy students looking for flexible educational options. The online bachelor’s in English prepares students with the communication and writing techniques needed to pursue a graduate English degree. Classes are delivered online and taught by the same professors who teach on campus. Courses cover relevant English language and communication topics like:
- introduction to the discipline
- literary research and theory
- women’s literature
- world literature
The institution is fully accredited and ranked with major publications like U.S. News and World Report. In fact, the most recent rankings include #31 in best regional universities in the Midwest and #37 in best value schools.
#18 – Arizona State University
Online Bachelor’s in English
Tempe, Arizona
Undergraduate Tuition: $11,338
Arizona State University offers an accredited online English degree. It’s for busy undergraduates who want the flexibility that a distance-learning program offers. Online students receive the same quality courses and materials as received on campus. They maintain complete control over their daily schedule. Online courses cover topics like:
- classical backgrounds of English literature
- critical reading and writing about literature
- future of English
- survey of English literature
A number of interesting electives are also offered, including:
- horror film and short stories
- media genres
- the life and death of languages
ASU ranks nationally with U.S. News and World Report. These rankings include:
- #103 in best national universities
- #16 in best undergraduate teaching
- #6 in best online bachelor’s programs.
#17 – Clarion University of Pennsylvania
Online Bachelor’s in English
Clarion, Pennsylvania
Undergraduate Tuition: $11,199
Clarion University of Pennsylvania offers an accredited online English bachelor’s degree designed for busy or working students. English majors learn how to express their opinion and voice through the study of literature and the English language. Writing and communication are the skills most emphasized in the online courses offered at Clarion. These courses cover topics like:
- American literature
- English literature
- introduction to English literature
- literary theory
- world literature
Students can also choose an area of concentration. Concentrations allow students to tailor their degree toward interest areas or to meet career goals. Available concentrations include:
- the integrative studies English
- integrative studies writing concentrations
In addition to being accredited, Clarion has received regional rankings from major publications like U.S. News and World Report. Recent rankings include #113 in best regional universities in the North and #42 in best online bachelor’s programs.
#16 – University of Missouri
Online Bachelor’s in English
Columbia, Missouri
Undergraduate Tuition: $10,723
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
University of Missouri is a top-ranked, accredited institution. Rankings with U.S. News and World Report include:
- #124 in best national universities
- #85 in best value schools
- #14 in best online bachelor’s programs.
#15 – University of Memphis Global
Online Bachelor’s in English
Memphis, Tennessee
Undergraduate Tuition: $9,912
The University of Memphis Global’s Department of English in the College of Arts and Sciences offers an online bachelor’s in English. The degree consists of 120 credits and can be completed entirely online. Two concentration offerings allow students to explore a particular area of study, honing their skills and deepening their knowledge. These concentrations include African American literature and professional writing. In the professional writing degree pathway, students gain preparation for careers in:
- business
- publishing
- technology
The school is fully accredited and ranked with major publications like U.S. News and World Report. In fact, Memphis ranks #258 in best national universities and #126 in top public schools.
#14 – Southern New Hampshire University
Online Bachelor’s in English
Manchester, New Hampshire
Undergraduate Tuition: $9,650
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. In the most recent edition of Best Colleges, SNHU ranks:
- #75 in best regional universities in the North
- #71 in best value schools
- #1 in most innovative schools.
#13 – University of Iowa
Online Bachelor’s in English and Creative Writing
Iowa City, Iowa
Undergraduate Tuition: $9,606
The University of Iowa is one of the few schools to offer a combined English and creative writing online bachelor’s degree. In this uniquely designed program, students experience historical and traditional aspects of English literature. Through creative reading and writing, the program prepares students to enter MFA programs, such as the prestigious UI Writers’ Workshop. Another unique aspect of the program is the literary publishing completion track. Track courses count toward the English major, but offer literary publishing and editorial practice for those interested in a publishing career. UI is fully accredited. The institution ranks with U.S. News and World Report. These rankings include #88 in best national universities and #108 in best value schools.
#12 – Eastern Oregon University
Online Bachelor’s in English and Writing
La Grande, Oregon
Undergraduate Tuition: $9,405
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
Eastern Oregon University is a regionally ranked institution that is also fully accredited. The most recent publication of Best Colleges ranks the institution as the 88th best regional university in the West and 45th top public school.
#11 – University of Colorado
Online Bachelor’s in English Writing, Rhetoric, and Technology
Denver, Colorado
Undergraduate Tuition: $9,401
University of Colorado offers an accredited online English bachelor degree program for busy students seeking marketable writing skills. The online English writing program is taught by the same professors who teach on the Denver campus. Small class sizes and quality curriculum provide a comfortable and valuable learning environment for students in this career-focused program. Online courses cover topics like:
- academic writing
- digital publication
- multimedia composition
- special topics in rhetoric and writing
UC-Denver ranks with major publications like U.S. News and World Report. The most recent publication of Best Colleges ranks UC-Denver #227 in best national universities and #113 in top public schools.
#10 – University of Maine
Online Bachelor’s in English
Presque Isle, Maine
Undergraduate Tuition: $8,585
The University of Maine at Presque Isle offers an online English degree that equips students with critical reading and professional writing skills. These may be used for success in a business or profession. All classes are delivered online and taught by the same professors who teach live courses on campus. Online classes cover topics like:
- contemporary world literature
- enlightenment and rise of Anglo-American literatures and cultures
- introduction to creative writing
- introduction to professional communication and journalism
- literary theory
- studies in the English language
- writing theory and practice
In addition to its full accreditation status, University of Maine ranks with U.S. News and World Report as the 28th best regional college in the North and 17th top public school.
#9 – Central Washington University
Online Bachelor’s in Professional and Creative Writing
Ellensburg, Washington
Undergraduate Tuition: $8,444
While not a traditional English degree, the online bachelor’s in professional and creative writing at Central Washington University offers an interdisciplinary approach to:
- English language
- grammar
- writing
The online program prepares students for success in a contemporary and creative work environment. Students gain an in-depth understanding of multiple genres. Courses cover topics like:
- creative writing and the environment
- English grammar
- poetry and poetics
- rhetoric for professional writers
Writing electives cover topics like:
- creative nonfiction writing
- fiction writing
- screenwriting fundamentals
CWU ranks with major publications like U.S. News and World Report as the 47th best regional universities in the West and 35th best value school.
#8 – Nicholls State University
Online Bachelor’s in English
Thibodaux, Louisiana
Undergraduate Tuition: $7,946
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
All classes are delivered online and taught by the same professors who teach on campus. Nicholls State ranks with U.S. News and World Report as the 80th best regional university in the South.
#7 – Indiana University
Online Bachelor’s in English, Technical and Professional Writing
Richmond, Indiana
Undergraduate Tuition: $7,715
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.
#6 – University of Maryland Global Campus
Online Bachelor’s in English
Adelphi, Maryland
Undergraduate Tuition: $7,560
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
The University of Maryland is a nationally ranked institution and fully accredited. Current rankings with U.S. News and World Report include #136-#176 in best regional universities in the North.
#5 – Thomas Edison State University
Online Bachelor’s in English
Trenton, New Jersey
Undergraduate Tuition: $7,182
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: $6,638
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
The same classes that are found on-campus are delivered online. Students receive the same materials and curriculum that traditional students do. LSA is a ranked institution by major publications like U.S. News and World Report. In addition to being fully accredited, LSU ranks #171-#221 in best national liberal arts colleges and #13-#23 in top public schools.
#3 – Western New Mexico University
Online Bachelor’s in English
Silver City, New Mexico
Undergraduate Tuition: $6,574
Western New Mexico University’s online bachelor’s in English degree program is for working students who want to prepare for careers that require skills in:
- critical analysis
- editing
- research
- technical writing
Even though coursework is delivered online, students have the opportunity to engage in valuable discussions with classmates and professors. This makes the flexible format ideal for all. Students must complete 36 hours of English courses. These include:
- American literature
- English literature
- introduction to literature
- Shakespeare
What makes WNMU a top choice is its:
- accreditation
- program offerings
- rankings with U.S. News and World Report. T
- he school is highly affordable and recognized as a top pick for an online bachelor’s degree.
#2 – Florida International University
Online Bachelor’s in English
Miami, Florida
Undergraduate Tuition: $6,565
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
FIU ranks with major publications like U.S. News and World Report as the 187th best national university.
#1 – University of Central Florida
Online Bachelor’s in English – Creative Writing
Orlando, Florida
Undergraduate Tuition: $6,368
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.
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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.
How much money can you earn with an online bachelor’s in English degree?
According to a recent report published by PayScale, English literature majors in their early career (up to five years of experience) earn a median salary of $45,400. Mid-career professionals, or those with more than ten years of experience, earn a median salary of $82,000. Secondary English teacher education majors see a slightly lower salary range of between $40,000 (early career pay) and $61,000 (mid-career pay). English as a Second Language instructors earn an early career wage of $41,600, while mid-career professionals earn a median salary of $59,900.
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.
In addition to experience, factors that impact the earnings of English majors are specialty niche and geographic location. For example, individuals living in various states and cities may earn higher wages than those living in smaller, rural locations. However, cost of living should be taken into consideration when determining earnings potential and current wages.
What specializations are available in bachelor’s in English online degree programs?
Those majoring in English may opt to customize their degree through the selection of electives or a concentration or specialization. Many bachelor’s in English online degree programs offer specializations so students can tailor their degree to align with career goals and interests. One such concentration is literature. An English literature program prepares individuals for work as:
- educators
- writers
- authors, among other positions
Some of the most common, and popular, specializations offered in English degree programs include:
- creative writing
- literature
- professional writing
- technical communication
- technical writing
For those interested in becoming an author or writer, a specialization in creative writing may be of interest. Coursework in creative writing concentrations or specializations focus on submitting work and handling gentle criticism. Students hone their craft and analyze their writing process. They take part in writing workshops that often require students to read their work aloud.
Students seeking a technical or professional writing career may choose to earn a concentration in one of these areas of specialty. Professional writing pathways prepare individuals with skills and principles of written, spoken, and visual communication. These skills are then applied to various situations in business, scientific, and technical contexts. Grammar and syntax are covered heavily in both technical and professional writing classes.
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.
The Authors Guild
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.
BDP Staff
August 2021