An education in English involves the study of the English language as a means of communication, as well as English literature and literary tradition. Ideal English candidates are interested in exploring history, language, literature, and western culture and are looking to improve their writing, speaking, and communication skills for a wide variety of practical applications and career possibilities. Online English bachelor's degrees provide a comprehensive overview of basic academic and communication skills, which can be used in a diverse range of fields, including PR, marketing, business, or journalism. Students who complete a bachelor's program will develop a deeper understanding of English and literature and strengthen their reading comprehension and composition abilities.
Why a Bachelor’s Degree?
Students with an online bachelor’s in English are eligible for various entry-level positions. For most employers, a bachelor’s is the minimum requirement for positions in PR management, media broadcasting, and technical writing, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS). The skills gained from this four-year degree are highly desirable by employers because they demonstrate a comprehensive and adaptable skill set.
Inside an English Bachelor’s Degree Program
The bachelor’s in English is a four-year program, typically comprised of around 60 course credit hours. Students complete a comprehensive curriculum of coursework, including an introduction to the English discipline through literary research and world literature studies, required composition courses, and electives. Courses may cover topics like English literature, American literary history, expository and persuasive writing, and the works of Shakespeare. To finish the online English bachelor’s, students are sometimes expected to create a capstone project or complete a senior-level writing workshop or seminar.
Bachelor’s degrees in English are widely available online. E-learners in this program are able to receive coursework that is nearly identical to the on-campus courses offered, but the accessibility of an online program means students can complete assignments anywhere, anytime. All communication between students and professors is done online through email, which further builds advanced writing skills for English students. The best online programs in this subject provide a basic foundation for English students through distance curriculum, allowing them to either enter into a career at the entry-level or pursue a higher degree in this field.
What’s Next for English Bachelor’s Degree Holders?
Graduates of an English bachelor’s degree online have a myriad of options to guide the next step in terms of their career. Some jobs require a minimum of a bachelor’s degree for entry-level employment, including writers and authors, technical writers and public relations managers and specialists. Technical writers, eligible to enter this field with a minimum of a bachelor’s in English, tend to earn a handsome wage in their profession, making an average annual salary of $69,030 in 2014, according to the BLS. English students are also well-suited to various positions in marketing, advertising, and business, as they have developed highly-advanced communication and language skills. Often, employers in fields like interpreting, translating, and editing also appreciate acute English education and experience.
Online English programs are available at the graduate level, as well. Students may wish to pursue a master’s program after completing their undergraduate studies if they are looking to start a career in a high-ranking PR management or advertising sales position. Working students may pursue a master’s in order to advance their current career standing or enhance job prospects. Obtaining a doctorate in English is necessary for those considering scholarly research, as well as those looking to become college professors or authors within the world of academia.