Learn what’s involved in earning a Bachelor's degree in English. We'll cover what the degree is, its pros and cons, the steps to get it, how long it takes, online options, what you’ll study, and potential career paths.

Key Points

• A bachelor's degree in English provides a well-rounded education in literature, writing, and critical thinking.
• Pursuing an English degree offers career opportunities in various fields, including education, publishing, communications, and more.
• The admission process involves meeting specific requirements, applying to the program, and exploring financial aid options.
• Earning an English bachelor's degree typically takes four years to complete.
• Graduates can pursue further education, such as a master's or doctoral degree, or seek entry-level roles in English-related fields.

What is a Bachelor's Degree in English?

A bachelor's degree in English is an undergraduate program that focuses on the study of literature, language, and writing. This degree provides students with a comprehensive understanding of the English language, its history, and its diverse applications. Through coursework in areas such as literary analysis, creative writing, and linguistics, students develop strong communication, critical thinking, and analytical skills.

Pros and Cons of Pursuing a Bachelor's Degree in English

Pros

• Develops strong communication and writing skills
• Fosters critical thinking and problem-solving abilities
• Offers a versatile degree applicable to various career paths
• Provides a solid foundation for further education, such as a master's or doctoral degree
• Allows for exploration of diverse literary works and genres

Cons

• May be perceived as a less practical degree compared to some other fields
• Can be challenging to find specific job opportunities directly related to the degree
• May require additional education or training to pursue certain career paths

How to Get a Bachelor's Degree in English

1. Meet the Admission Requirements: To enroll in a bachelor's degree program in English, you'll need to meet the admission requirements set by the university or college of your choice. This typically includes submitting a high school transcript, standardized test scores (such as the SAT or ACT), and a personal statement or essay.

2. Apply to the English Program: Once you've met the admission requirements, you can apply to the English program at your desired institution. This may involve completing an application form, submitting letters of recommendation, and providing any additional materials required by the program.

3. Explore Financial Aid Options: Pursuing a bachelor's degree can be a significant financial investment. Explore various financial aid options, such as scholarships, grants, student loans, and work-study programs, to help cover the cost of your education. Research the eligibility requirements and application process for these financial aid opportunities.

4. Enroll and Complete the Program: After being accepted into the English program, you can enroll and begin your studies. Typically, a bachelor's degree in English requires the completion of approximately 120 credit hours, which includes general education courses, core English courses, and electives. Throughout your studies, you'll engage in a variety of activities, such as literary analysis, creative writing workshops, and research projects.

List of Online Bachelor’s Degree in English

For those looking into an online bachelor's degree in English, there are many choices available. Dreambound is a website to consider, offering a flexible and cost-effective English degree program.

Dreambound is an online education platform that partners with accredited universities to deliver top-notch, affordable degree programs. Their online bachelor's degree in English is designed for students needing a convenient and adaptable learning option.

Some of the schools and programs available through Dreambound include:

Liberty University Online

Program:

• BED: English Education 6-12
• BED: English as a Second Language Education P-12
• BED: Middle Education: English
• BS: Teaching English as a Second Language
• BED: Elementary Education: Middle Grades English
• BS: English & Writing: Creative Writing
• BS: English & Writing
• BS: Creative Writing: English

Cost Range: $10,940 - $39,400

Southern New Hampshire University

Program:

• BA English in Literature
• BA English in Professional Writing
• BA English
• BA Creative Writing and English with concentration in Non-Fiction Writing
• BA Creative Writing and English with concentration in Fiction Writing
• BA Creative Writing and English with concentration in Poetry
• BA Creative Writing and English with concentration in Screenwriting
• BA Creative Writing and English

Cost Range: $10,940 - $39,400

How Long Does it Take to Get a Bachelor's Degree in English?

A bachelor's degree in English is typically a four-year program. Most universities and colleges structure their undergraduate programs to be completed within four academic years, or eight semesters, of full-time study. However, the exact duration may vary depending on factors such as the specific program requirements, course load, and whether you choose to attend part-time or take summer classes.

What to Expect from a Bachelor's Degree in English

A bachelor's degree in English provides students with a well-rounded education in literature, language, and writing. Coursework may include:

• Introduction to Literary Analysis
• British Literature
• American Literature
• Creative Writing
• Linguistics
• Shakespeare
• World Literature
• Advanced Composition

Throughout the program, students will develop critical thinking, analytical, and communication skills that are highly valued in various professional settings.

What Can You Do with a Bachelor's Degree in English?

Graduate School Preparation

A bachelor's degree in English can serve as an excellent foundation for further education, such as a master's or doctoral degree. Graduates may choose to pursue advanced degrees in fields like English literature, linguistics, creative writing, or even law or education.

Entry-Level English Roles

With a bachelor's degree in English, graduates can explore a range of entry-level positions, including:

• Content Writer
• Copywriter
• Editorial Assistant
• Journalist
• Public Relations Specialist
• Social Media Coordinator
• Teacher (with additional certification)

Career Opportunities

The versatility of an English degree allows graduates to pursue a variety of career paths, including:

• Advertising/Marketing
• Communications
• Education
• Journalism
• Law
• Publishing
• Public Relations
• Technical Writing

According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), the average annual salary for individuals with a bachelor's degree in English is $63,200, and the job outlook for English-related occupations is projected to grow by 9% from 2022 to 2032, which is about as fast as the average for all occupations.

Final Thoughts

Pursuing a Bachelor's Degree in English can be a rewarding choice for those interested in literature, language, and effective communication. This degree provides a well-rounded education that can open doors to a variety of career paths, from education and publishing to marketing and public relations. Whether you're considering an Online English Bachelor's Degree or a traditional BS in English program, this guide has provided you with a comprehensive overview of what to expect and how to achieve your academic and professional goals.

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