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Online Bachelor's Degree: English

English
Bachelor of Arts
DEGREE AT A GLANCE
  • 120 credits
  • Transfer up to 90 credits
  • All courses available online
TUITION RATES
  • $324 per credit (in-state)
  • $499 per credit (out-of-state)
  • $250 per credit (military)
  • Other fees may apply
Apply Now

Earn an online bachelor’s degree in English from University of Maryland Global Campus and build a solid critical thinking base, boost your career potential, or prepare to pursue graduate study. The English curriculum, designed with input from experienced faculty members, employers, industry experts, and scholars, combines theories with real-world applications and practical skills. Through this program, you may develop in-demand skills in research and writing that have a wide application in the job market. 

Meanwhile, our convenient online courses allow you to earn your English degree on your own time. You could also save time and money with UMGC’s generous transfer credit policy

Your English degree awaits. Apply today! 

Build Crucial Skills in Critical Thinking, Analysis, & Communication 

UMGC’s online English bachelor’s degree program can help you hone your critical thinking and analytical skills and build effective communication techniques by deeply engaging with diverse literary works and writing styles. The degree program emphasizes the nuanced understanding of language, culture, and human experience through literature, fostering a unique appreciation for storytelling and expression. Students learn to interpret complex texts, develop persuasive arguments, and craft articulate written and oral communications. Our program stands out by nurturing a profound sensitivity to language's power, enriching students’ intellectual and empathetic capacities, crucial for varied career paths and personal growth. 

Here are a few benefits of the English degree program:

  • Your courses will cover a breadth of literary genres, including fiction, poetry, drama. You will also have the option to take an in-depth set of courses in historical American or British literature or electives ranging in topics from linguistics to creative writing
  • Eligible English majors can join Sigma Tau Delta, which provides opportunities to associate with students, alumni and faculty members who share an interest in writing, English language and literature. 
  • UMGC offers competitive tuition rates for Maryland residents, as well as discounts for military servicemembers and their spouses and dependents.
  • Students who complete the English degree program may be eligible to reduce their total coursework for a Master of Arts in Teaching by up to 12 credits through an accelerated pathway.

See Courses & Program Info

View a complete list of program courses, program-specific and degree-level requirements, and more.

Search Course Catalog

These requirements are for students who enroll in the 2024–2025 academic year. For prior year requirements, visit our catalog archive.

Bachelor’s Degree Requirements

In addition to the specific course requirements outlined on each bachelor’s degree webpage, UMGC maintains certain requirements for all bachelor’s degrees.

Develop Career-Ready Skills in English Language & Literature 

Employers highly value the knowledge and skills you will develop in UMGC’s English degree curriculum. These skills can also easily translate to almost any modern industry. Our English degree graduates develop crucial skills in critical thinking, analysis, research, communication, and more. You will also gain knowledge through coursework that draws from the expertise and experience of our respected faculty. Our program directors refresh and update the UMGC curriculum regularly, with a focus on helping English majors achieve the following: 

Unlock Your Career Potential

This program is designed to help prepare you for a career in education, law, publishing, journalism, public relations, business, or management. Potential job titles within specific English careers include English teacher, content writer/editor, copywriter, literary analyst or critic, communications specialist, and research analyst. 

Samba J., Watertown, NY

1.8M
English Jobs
There are more than 1.8 million people employed in an English-related career in the United States as of 2021.
Source: U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics | Occupational Outlook Handbook: Field of Degree: English | Last Reviewed: April 1, 2024
17%+
English Majors in Teaching
More than 17 percent of English graduates go on to work as elementary, middle, secondary, or postsecondary school teachers.
Source: Data USA | English | Last Reviewed: April 1, 2024

Practice Real-World Skills in Your English Courses 

Throughout your curriculum, your instructors will assign hands-on, project-based coursework that will help you prioritize real-world skills and high-quality experience. In past courses, students have been able to complete assignments crafted to help build well-rounded skills that are highly transferable to research-oriented professions in journalism, marketing, public relations, and education. Examples of past assignments include the following: 

  • Assemble a portfolio to showcase your academic journey that demonstrates your ability to synthesize information; critically engage with literature; argue, persuade, and inform effectively; write and communicate clearly; and articulate the relevance of English studies in various contexts. 
  • Analyze literary texts to explain stylistic, historical, sociocultural, and ethical significance. 
  • Write a brief critical introduction to 18th Century British literature for high school students that showcases your ability to apply critical theory to literary texts to enhance interpretation and analysis; use the elements of formalism to closely read poetry; and adapt complex concepts for different audiences. 
  • Conduct effective research across a range of media, create an effective presentation in PowerPoint, and construct an annotated bibliography.  

Explore UMGC Insights 

Gain insight from our faculty and staff and delve deeper into a range of topics, including effective writing tips, transfer credit opportunities, and accelerated pathways to a master’s degree for English majors. 

 

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