Home/
English Bachelor's Degree Program
English Bachelor's Degree Program
English undergraduate programs explore authors and works of literature, along with creative and academic writing techniques. Learn about the types of bachelor's degrees available, course topics and online program options.
What Kinds of English Bachelor's Degree Programs are Available?
Many colleges and universities offer English bachelor's degree programs, and you can even find online learning opportunities on the subject. Some programs cover English language and literature from a general perspective, while others allow you to choose a concentration, such as creative writing, technical writing or literature. Additionally, many English bachelor's degree programs offer teacher training, which can allow you to earn a teaching certificate while taking your bachelor's degree classes.
<table border="1"><tr><td><b>Degrees Offered</b></td><td>Online and on-campus bachelor's degrees (associate, master's and doctorate degrees are also available)</td></tr>
<tr><td><b>Common Courses</b></td><td>British literature, American literature, Shakespeare, poetry, fiction writing</td></tr>
<tr><td><b>Other Requirements</b></td><td>Teaching certification (for teachers)</td></tr>
<tr><td><b>Career Options</b></td><td>Creative writer, technical writer, blogger, editor, novelist, English teacher; fields of work include publishing, journalism, advertising/public relations, business and government</td></tr>
<tr><td><b>Median Salary (2020)</b></td><td>$67,120 <i>(Writers and Authors)</i></td></tr>
<tr><td><b>Job Outlook (2019-2029)</b></td><td>2% decline <i>(Writers and Authors)</i></td></tr>
</table><p><i>Source: U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS)</i>
</p><h3 id="section---WhatCoursesWillITake">What Courses Will I Take?</h3><p>English bachelor's degree programs include courses in language, writing, communication and literature. Typically, American, English and world literature are required courses for the English major, but you may be able to also take specialized classes that focus on one writer or genre, such as Shakespeare or young adult literature. Writing courses often include expository, persuasive, essay, fiction and poetry writing. Some programs include courses that discuss specific historical topics to give you an understanding of the literary context of the works that you're reading.
</p><p>If you wish to become an English teacher, you must also complete your state's teacher education and certification requirements. Classes will discuss methods for teaching literature, reading and writing. Most English education bachelor's degree programs are geared towards teaching high school students. You must also complete a student teaching experience to obtain your teaching license or certificate.
</p><h3 id="section---HowDoOnlineProgramsWork">How Do Online Programs Work?</h3><p>During an online bachelor's degree program in English, you can view lectures and complete readings on your own time. Although you typically won't have face-to-face discussions with instructors and classmates, Internet-based technologies like discussion boards, e-mail and Web conferencing can give you many opportunities to communicate. Online learning requires diligent time management skills, though, so you can meet weekly assignment and essay deadlines.
</p><p>Some online English bachelor's degree programs are completion programs, intended for students who have already completed general education courses through a community college, technical school or university. In these cases, most of the courses you'll take online are courses for your major. If you need to complete any general education courses, you may need to take those at a school near you.</p>
