10 Best Online English Degrees Programs 2026

Studying English can open doors to careers in writing, education, communications, and beyond. These programs strengthen your ability to analyze language and literature while improving your writing, research, and critical thinking skills.

If you're seeking an affordable degree with flexible online options, you'll find many low-cost online English degrees that provide the same quality education as on-campus programs. Here, we'll explore some of the top online bachelor's in English programs that offer affordability, accessibility, and academic excellence to help you move forward in your educational journey.

Top Online English Degree Programs

Online English degrees are typically flexible programs that allow students to learn from home. Explore the schools below to find the best English programs nationwide.

1. University of West Florida

The University of West Florida's online Master of Arts in English prepares students for careers as speakers, writers, and educators in nonprofit administration, creative writing, technical writing, and more. Learners explore American and British literature, poetry, and rhetoric.

This online MA offers affordable tuition for in-state and out-of-state enrollees at $384.60 and $478.83 per credit hour, respectively. Eligible students can receive graduate grants of about $1,000 to lower costs.

2. Maryville University

The online Bachelor of Arts in English at Maryville University helps students develop critical thinking, research, and writing skills for jobs in media, education, and beyond. This program explores creative writing and literature and has a capstone experience and writing internship.

Maryville offers start dates in the fall, spring, and summer and asks for no ACT or SAT scores when applying. You can turn the online BA into an accelerated online English degree by transferring credits from a previous college.

3. Southern New Hampshire University

Southern New Hampshire University offers an online BA in English with concentrations in literature and professional writing. Online courses explore the English language, literary theory, Shakespeare, and more.

Students can receive online tutoring anytime and get help from career and academic advisors. Financial aid, scholarships, and credits for transfer, exams, and certificates can reduce the already low tuition cost of $330 per credit.

4. Louisiana State University

Students who want to start careers as content writers, public relations specialists, or librarians can gain key skills in the online BA in English program at Louisiana State University. This degree offers English courses in composition, grammar, and Shakespeare.

LSU charges just $325 per credit hour and accepts FAFSA and transfer credits to lower costs. Admission requirements include having a minimum 2.0 GPA in high school or college.

5. Arizona State University

Students seeking undergraduate and graduate online English programs can find degrees at Arizona State University. The BA in English explores storytelling, linguistics, and contextual analysis preparing students for high school teacher, technical writer, and SEO specialist roles.

The MA in English focuses on the philosophical, cultural, and historical contexts of creative work. Graduates can pursue careers as advertising copywriters, editors, and correspondents.

6. University of Maryland Global Campus

The University of Maryland Global Campus offers a BA in English teaching modern American and English literature, British literature, and works from African American authors. This online bachelor's degree program helps students improve their writing, research, and presentation skills.

UMGC charges online students residing in Maryland $324 per credit and out-of-state learners $499 per credit. Students can transfer up to 90 credits to save on tuition and graduate sooner.

7. Texas Tech University

At Texas Tech University, students seeking bachelor's or master's degrees in English can find online programs. The BA offers concentrations in literature and language, creative writing, and English teaching, while the MA focuses on building critical thinking skills and knowledge of literature.

Both degrees offer the same coursework explored in on-campus programs and are taught by the same professors. TTU's programs have earned high marks for value, quality academics, accessibility, and affordability.

8. University of Massachusetts Lowell

The University of Massachusetts Lowell offers an online BA in English that students can complete in as few as 12 months. Enrollees can transfer up to 90 credits, saving money and speeding up degree completion.

Degree requirements include completing coursework that explores storytelling, American literature, writing, and research. Students must also maintain a minimum 2.0 GPA.

9. University of Arkansas

The University of Arkansas' online BA in English teaches students to read literary texts through a critical lens. Enrollees can choose from concentrations in rhetoric and writing studies, topical studies, and creative writing.

U of A offers support services to help online students navigate this program. Enrollees can plan their academic journeys with academic advisors and get help with their technology questions.

10. California Baptist University

The online BA in English from California Baptist University helps students develop writing, analysis, and critical thinking skills by exploring historical and modern literary texts. Courses are delivered in a 100% asynchronous format.

This program is accelerated and transfer-friendly. Taking on a full-time course load and completing general education and elective requirements before enrolling can help students finish this program in 16 months.

How We Rank Schools

We selected each program based on key factors that matter most to online students--academic quality, affordability, and flexibility. The following universities stand out for offering rigorous coursework, experienced faculty, and strong student support.

• Accreditation: Only regionally accredited schools were considered to ensure credibility and transferability of credits.
• Affordability: Tuition rates, financial aid options, and transfer credit policies were evaluated to highlight the most budget-friendly programs.
• Program Features: We also considered online learning resources, writing-focused curriculum strength, and internship or career preparation opportunities.

What Should I Look for in an English Program?

When exploring online English programs, consider the school's reputation, course variety, and support services for remote learners. The best programs balance literary study, writing development, and professional application.

Accreditation and Academic Reputation

Enrolling in an accredited university ensures your degree meets national academic standards and qualifies for graduate study or career advancement. Accredited programs also tend to offer the same curriculum and faculty expertise as their on-campus counterparts.

Curriculum and Concentrations

English programs often allow students to specialize in areas such as creative writing, literature, or technical writing. Choosing a concentration aligned with your goals can make your degree more relevant for roles in publishing, education, or communications. Coursework typically includes composition, linguistics, and literary analysis.

Flexibility and Learning Format

Online English degrees are typically asynchronous, letting you complete assignments on your schedule. Some schools also offer hybrid or accelerated tracks to shorten completion time. Flexible formats make it easier to manage studies while balancing work or family commitments.

Student Resources and Career Support

Online students should look for universities that offer tutoring, writing labs, and academic advising. Many schools also provide job placement or alumni networks to support graduates entering writing, teaching, or editing careers. Comprehensive support services help ensure student success from enrollment to graduation.

Careers for English Graduates

Graduates with an English degree can pursue careers in writing, editing, publishing, education, and public relations. Strong communication and analytical skills make English majors valuable in a wide range of industries.

Many graduates also continue into law, journalism, or marketing programs, where their writing and research abilities are key assets. Whether you want to teach, write creatively, or craft persuasive content, an English degree provides the foundation to build a flexible and rewarding career.

FAQs About the Best Online English Degrees

Earning your English degree online can bring up questions about coursework, career options, and program quality. Below are answers to a few common questions for prospective English majors.

Are Online English Degrees Credible?

Yes, accredited online English programs hold the same value as traditional on-campus degrees. They feature identical curricula and are often taught by the same professors.

Employers and graduate schools recognize these programs for their rigor and flexibility. Completing your degree online can also demonstrate strong organization and time management skills.

What Skills Will I Gain From an English Degree?

An English degree develops your writing, communication, and analytical skills. You'll learn to interpret complex texts, conduct research, and craft persuasive arguments.

These abilities are applicable across fields such as marketing, law, education, and publishing. Employers consistently value English majors for their critical thinking and versatility.

Is an Online English Degree Right for Me?

If you enjoy reading, writing, and analyzing language, an online English degree can be a great fit. It's especially convenient for students who need flexible scheduling.

Online programs allow you to work at your own pace while accessing digital libraries, writing workshops, and instructor feedback. The mix of flexibility and depth makes these degrees ideal for lifelong learners and career changers alike.

Earn Your Online Bachelor's Degree Today

Begin your journey toward a rewarding career in English by discovering the accredited degree programs offered by colleges on Learn.org. Contact one of these schools directly to learn the steps you can take to start your career.