courses in english education

Best Online Master’s in English Programs

Online master’s programs in English prepare graduates for positions that require precise, creative use of the English language. Whether graduates hope to become poets or technical writers, professors or editors, they can benefit from an online master’s in English.

Prospective students who wonder what these degrees entail, what to look for in a top program, and where to find support along the way can find answers to all these questions in the following guide. Read on to learn more about the best online master’s in English programs for 2021.

Best Accredited Online Master’s in English Programs

Rankings compiled by the the BestColleges Ranking Team

How We Rank Schools

At BestColleges, we believe a college education is one of the most important investments you can make. We want to help you navigate the college selection process by offering transparent, inclusive, and relevant school rankings.

Our rankings are grounded in a few guiding principles and use the latest statistical data available from trusted sources. Read our ranking methodology. We hope our approach helps you find the school that is best for you.

University of Louisiana at Monroe

Campus + Online
In-State $5,788
Out-of-state $17,888
In-State $6,490
Out-of-state $18,590
Retention Rate 73%
Acceptance Rate 80%
Students Enrolled 8,673
Institution Type Public

Tarleton State University

In-State $4,526
Out-of-state $14,296
In-State $4,137
Out-of-state $11,733
Retention Rate 65%
Acceptance Rate 56%
Students Enrolled 13,166

Northwestern State University of Louisiana

In-State $5,180
Out-of-state $15,968
In-State $5,738
Out-of-state $16,526
Retention Rate 70%
Acceptance Rate 82%
Students Enrolled 10,900

University of Nebraska at Kearney

In-State $6,090
Out-of-state $13,290
In-State $6,048
Out-of-state $13,296
Retention Rate 77%
Acceptance Rate 85%
Students Enrolled 6,279

Southern New Hampshire University

In-State $30,756
Out-of-state $30,756
In-State $18,810
Out-of-state $18,810
Acceptance Rate 88%
Students Enrolled 113,514
Institution Type Private

Minnesota State University-Mankato

In-State $7,394
Out-of-state $15,686
In-State $7,694
Out-of-state $7,694
Acceptance Rate 63%
Students Enrolled 14,325

Ohio Dominican University

In-State $31,100
Out-of-state $31,100
In-State $10,800
Out-of-state $10,800
Retention Rate 61%
Acceptance Rate 84%
Students Enrolled 1,640

Morehead State University

In-State $8,970
Out-of-state $13,556
In-State $10,260
Out-of-state $10,260
Acceptance Rate 78%
Students Enrolled 9,654

The University of West Florida

In-State $3,735
Out-of-state $16,004
In-State $7,088
Out-of-state $22,166
Retention Rate 81%
Acceptance Rate 31%
Students Enrolled 12,557

South Dakota State University

In-State $7,697
Out-of-state $11,172
In-State $8,083
Out-of-state $15,541
Retention Rate 78%
Acceptance Rate 90%
Students Enrolled 11,512

What Can I Expect From an Online Master’s in English Program?

Online master’s in English programs provide the literary training needed to work in roles focused on correct language and linguistics. Students who enjoy these programs value precise language and enjoy analyzing texts to better understand their meaning. In contrast to an MFA in writing , which focuses on building creative writing skills, a master’s in English is more academic in nature.

Most of these programs take 2-3 years to complete and require 32-48 credits. In addition to covering core topics, such as literary research and criticism, American literature study, and composition theory and practice, many schools also offer concentrations in areas like literature, writing, and creative writing.

In contrast to an MFA in writing, which focuses on building creative writing skills, a master’s in English is more academic in nature.

After completing required coursework, students write a master’s thesis that examines a unique question or topic within the field using both primary and secondary research. Students who plan to teach or work as an editor may also be able to participate in an internship or practicum before they graduate.

Admission Requirements for Online Master’s in English Programs

Many online master’s in English programs prefer applicants with a bachelor’s degree in English or a related field. Prospective students without a relevant bachelor’s degree may need to complete certain prerequisite courses before starting the program.

Additional requirements include official transcripts, a personal statement, writing samples, and letters of recommendation. Students can learn more about this process by checking out our graduate admissions guide .

Still Looking for the Right Fit? Discover Similar Programs.

What courses will i take in an online master’s in english program, teaching writing.

Designed for students who want to learn the ins and outs of teaching English at the secondary or postsecondary level, this course emphasizes pedagogy and measurable results. Degree-seekers delve into composition studies, teaching grammar and argument, writing across academic disciplines, and understanding cultural and linguistic differences in writing.

Writing and Technology

Over the past three decades, the invention of the internet and digital media has substantially shifted how readers ingest writings, how they share it, and how it is remembered. In this course, students consider the importance of media awareness and look at new and emerging practices for conveying thoughts and ideas across new media.

20th Century Language Theories

This course introduces degree-seekers to various ways of reading and analyzing texts. Learners examine models like new criticism, formalism, structuralism, and phenomenology to better understand earlier literary criticism and findings.

Life Writing

This course teaches students to write from personal experience through autobiography, short stories, literary essays, and poetry. Learners read examples of life writing before completing several assignments designed to both mimic earlier styles and help them find their voices.

Victorian Writers and Writings

Typically offered as an elective, this course looks at overarching themes in both American and English Victorian writing. Themes of class hierarchies, moral and sexual behaviors, despair and death, and urban vs. rural life receive special attention, as does the role of modernization and social change in the evolution of this writing period.

Find the Tools You Need to Get Started on Your Degree

What can i do with an online master’s in english degree.

The liberal arts often get a bad rap for job outcomes in a rapidly digitized world, but many online-based positions require professionals who know how to write well and clearly convey messages. Schools and universities also need educated academics who can teach the next generation of writers.

While jobs for writers are projected to grow as fast as average between 2023 and 2033, public relations positions should continue to grow faster than average.

See where a master’s in English degree can take you. Learn more about English careers .

Whether working in a K-12 or postsecondary education, English teachers and professors help students learn the ins and outs of the English language. They also teach students to analyze texts and write well. Many great writers credit their teachers for instilling an early love of language.

Technical Writing

Whether writing a dishwasher manual or editing a complex scientific journal, technical writers boast clear writing skills and the ability to translate complex topics into accessible prose. Technical writers can pursue in-house roles at academic journals or work as freelancers.

Editors play an important role in many industries, ensuring costly or embarrassing grammatical mistakes get fixed before going to print. Editors must possess a deep and nuanced understanding of grammar, syntax, and language to be effective in their roles.

Public Relations

Public relations professionals craft and manage the public personas of individuals and companies. Much of their work involves conveying the ideas and accomplishments of their clients, both orally and verbally. A strong grasp of the English language is key for these positions.

Even if students do not aspire to publish their own work, those hoping to work in publishing must understand the mechanics of language. When reviewing drafts and pitches, publishing executives must ascertain whether the material will appeal to their audience.

English Not For You? Check Out These Related Careers.

Frequently asked questions about master’s in english programs, is a master’s in english worth it.

Graduates with a master’s in English can pursue meaningful roles in both academic and business settings. Whether graduates aim to work as community college professors or content managers, this degree can help them achieve their goals.

What can I do with a master’s in English?

A master’s degree in English leads to opportunities in myriad fields in positions that require clear language. Graduates can find work as speechwriters, editors, and postsecondary instructors.

Are English majors in high demand?

It depends on the job. Traditional writers may have trouble finding work. Nevertheless, between 2023 and 2033, the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) projects 8% job growth for postsecondary teachers and 4% job growth for technical writers .

How much money can I make with a master’s in English?

According to the BLS, writers and authors earn a median annual salary of $73,690, while technical writers make a median annual salary of $80,050.

What are the highest-paying jobs with a master’s in English?

Postsecondary teachers earn a median annual salary of $84,380. The top 10% of earners brought home more than $120,000 per year. Keep in mind that university professors usually need a doctorate to teach. A master’s degree is sufficient for most community college teaching positions.

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