Best Online English Programs of 2023

Accreditation: Higher Learning Commission

Avg. Cost per Credit:
In-State | $325
Out-of-State | $325

Credits to Graduate: 120

APU's online BA in English offers a broad overview of literature, critical writing, and literary history. The program highlights British, American, and world literature. You can also choose from three concentration options in literature, writing and communication, or general studies.

To apply to APU, you'll need either a high school diploma or a GED. If you've never earned college credit before, you'll also need to submit proof of your high school completion or your GED.

Accreditation: Higher Learning Commission

Avg. Cost per Credit:
In-State | $551-561
Out-of-State | $551-$561

Credits to Graduate: 120

Known for its distance learning programs, ASU offers a top-ranked BA in English that is available fully online. The English program gives you broad training in literature, linguistics, and rhetoric. You can also choose from electives in languages and literature, film and media, and writing.

ASU requires applicants to be in the top 25% of their graduating class. You'll also need to submit SAT or ACT scores and hold a 3.0 GPA in required competency courses, such as math or English.

Accreditation: Western Association of Schools and Colleges Senior College and University Commission

Avg. Cost per Credit:
In-State | $613
Out-of-State | $613

Credits to Graduate: 124

CBU's online BA in English focuses on literature and writing through a Christian framework. Alongside courses like literary theory and multicultural literature, you also study Christian literary classics, Christian thought, and the Bible.

To apply to CBU, you'll need at least a high school diploma or GED. The school prefers transfer students to hold at least 24 college-level credits, though this is not required. However, you should hold a minimum 2.0 GPA if you plan to apply as a transfer student.

Accreditation: Northwest Commission on Colleges and Universities

Avg. Cost per Credit:
In-State | $432
Out-of-State | $1,568

Credits to Graduate: 120

If you're interested in studying more than just British and American literature, CWU's online BA in English might be a good option. CWU's English degree offers a focus on global perspectives and multicultural literature through courses like American Indian literature and Asian American literature.

You'll need a high school diploma or GED to apply to CWU. The school doesn't maintain specific GPA requirements, but you may need to write an additional personal statement if your high school GPA is below a 2.5.

Programmatic Accreditation: Northwest Commission on Colleges and Universities

Avg. Cost per Credit:
In-State | $286
Out-of-State | $330

Credits to Graduate: 180 quarter credits

If you're looking for career preparation, EOU offers a highly versatile BA or BS in English and writing. You can customize your degree by choosing from three concentrations in literature, rhetoric, or creative writing.

EOU requires you to hold either a high school diploma or a GED to apply. You'll need a minimum 2.75 GPA on high school coursework. If you're transferring from another college or university with fewer than 30 quarter credits, EOU requires a minimum GPA of 2.25.

Accreditation: Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges

Avg. Cost per Credit:
In-State | $42
Out-of-State | $208

Credits to Graduate: 120

FSU's online BA in English language and literature highlights the historical and cultural context of literature, preparing you for career paths in technical writing, journalism, and more. You can also choose from three optional concentrations in creative and professional writing, teaching, or pre-law.

FSU's online English BA is a degree completion program. To apply, you must complete your lower-division courses either on campus at FSU or online at a partner community college.

Accreditation: Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges

Avg. Cost per Credit:
In-State | $229
Out-of-State | $346

Credits to Graduate: 120

FIU's BA in English offers an online track in writing and rhetoric, training you in expert writing, communication, and argumentation. The program includes courses such as professional and technical writing, advanced business writing, and scientific writing. You can also complete courses in creative writing, linguistics, and literature.

To apply to FIU's online program, you'll need to submit high school transcripts and either SAT or ACT scores. The program offers application deadlines in the fall, spring, and summer.

Accreditation: New England Commission of Higher Education

Avg. Cost per Credit:
In-State | $314
Out-of-State | $379

Credits to Graduate: 120

Consider UNH's online BS in English language arts if you're interested in teaching English at K-12 schools. The program offers three certification options, including early childhood education, elementary education, and general special education. Due to state licensing requirements, you can only obtain certification if you live in New Hampshire, Rhode Island, Massachusetts, Vermont, or Maine.

UNH requires only a high school diploma to apply. Alternatively, you can complete the GED, TASC, or HiSet exam.

Accreditation: Northwest Commission on Colleges and Universities

Avg. Cost per Credit:
In-State | $197
Out-of-State | $292

Credits to Graduate: 120

GBS's online BA in English builds skills in literary analysis, writing, and cultural study. The program primarily serves students in Nevada, but online courses let you complete your studies from anywhere.

The BA in English is a degree completion program. To apply, you should already hold an associate degree — the equivalent of 60 college credits — from an accredited college. This should include some lower-division English coursework, such as introduction to creative writing or introduction to literary studies.

Accreditation: Northwest Commission on Colleges and Universities

Avg. Cost per Credit:
In-State | $810
Out-of-State | $810

Credits to Graduate: 120

Heritage University's program offers an online BA in English that focuses on literature, composition, and linguistics. Courses focus on both traditional literature and genre writing, such as romance, science fiction, and fantasy. If you're interested in teaching English, Heritage also offers a language arts teaching credential for grades 5-12.

To apply to Heritage, you'll only need to submit high school transcripts. The school has no specific GPA requirements, and SAT or ACT scores are optional.