The realm of English studies will always be in demand and will always have a supply of new literary works, even with modern technological advancements.
The study of the English language can apply to almost every aspect of human society and these online Masters in English programs will set you apart as a candidate with exceptional skills, determination, and knowledge.
The online aspect of these graduate program degrees ensures that you can continue your English education from wherever you want or need with an internet connection.
The median income for holders of a Master’s Degree in English is between $63,400 and $69,000, which is right around the US average household income.
The field of English and literature post-secondary educators has a projected growth of 2% in the next decade.
This degree program opens a wide variety of doors to you such as professional writing, publishing, teaching English, and even speech pathology, which entails such skills as the historical and contemporary study of literature, English theory, grammatical format, and education in these subjects.
Methodology
All schools considered for these rankings
- Are regionally or nationally accredited
- Offer at least one fully online master’s in English degree (with no more than two weeks of required in-person work)
- Were collected from official accrediting agency websites.
Online Programs That Might Interest You
Learn about start dates, transferring credits, availability of financial aid, and more by contacting the universities below.Schools are ranked solely by the average net price as released in the most recent IPEDs database collected in July of 2023.
2024 Most Affordable Online Colleges for Master’s in English Degrees
| Rank | School | Average Net Price |
| #1 | Eastern New Mexico University-Main Campus | $4,994 |
| #2 | University of Wyoming | $8,036 |
| #3 | The University of Texas Permian Basin | $8,106 |
| #4 | University of Louisiana-Monroe | $10,950 |
| #5 | Murray State University | $11,226 |
| #6 | University of New Orleans | $11,548 |
| #7 | Louisiana Tech University | $12,065 |
| #8 | National University | $12,231 |
| #9 | University of North Alabama | $12,631 |
| #10 | Arizona State University | $12,814 |
| #11 | Eastern Illinois University | $12,872 |
| #12 | Valdosta State University | $13,336 |
| #13 | Fort Hays State University | $13,515 |
| #14 | Western New Mexico University | $14,023 |
| #15 | Indiana University – Bloomington | $14,216 |
| #16 | University of Nebraska at Kearney | $16,611 |
| #17 | Old Dominion University | $16,948 |
| #18 | Texas Tech University | $17,313 |
| #19 | Minnesota State University at Mankato | $17,488 |
| #20 | South Dakota State University | $18,402 |
| #21 | Gardner Webb University | $19,785 |
| #22 | Southern New Hampshire University Online | $22,873 |
| #23 | Wayland Baptist University | $23,601 |
10 Best Affordable Colleges for Online Master’s in English Degrees
1. Eastern New Mexico University-Main Campus
Average Net Price: $4,994
School Type: Public, Non-Profit
School Accreditation: HLC
Acceptance Rate: 33%
The Eastern New Mexico University-Main Campus offers a dynamic 36-credit hour Master of Arts in English (M.A.) program, which boasts full online accessibility. This program serves as a rigorous preparation ground for careers encompassing teaching, research, editing, publishing, and various English-related fields.
Within the M.A. in English at ENMU, students can choose from two enriching specializations:
- Rhetoric and Composition: This specialization equips individuals for instructing college-level writing or excelling as technical writers, grant writers, or editors.
- Creative Writing: This specialization empowers students to craft compelling fiction, poetry, or creative nonfiction.
Students enrolled in the M.A. in English program partake in a diverse array of courses, spanning:
- Literary theory
- British literature
- American literature
- Rhetoric and composition
- Creative writing
- Research methods
- Professional development
Moreover, the program mandates students to culminate their studies with a capstone project, be it a thesis or a creative portfolio.
Admission to the M.A. in English program necessitates a bachelor’s degree in English or a related field, showcasing a commendable GPA of 3.0 or higher. Additionally, candidates are expected to furnish GRE scores and garner two commendatory letters.
The ENMU M.A. in English program emerges as an adaptable and budget-friendly pathway to secure a master’s degree in English. Seasoned faculty members guide the program, while students gain access to a rich repository of online resources.
2. University of Wyoming
Average Net Price: $8,036
School Type: Public, Non-Profit
School Accreditation: SACS COC
Acceptance Rate: 97%
The University of Wyoming’s Master of Arts in English Online is a three-year, cohort-based degree program that combines a one-week campus residency each summer with online classes throughout the regular academic year. It is designed for working professionals who want to earn their graduate degree while managing other obligations.
The program offers two tracks: a thesis track and a non-thesis track (Plan-B portfolio). The thesis track requires students to complete a 30-60 page thesis, while the Plan-B portfolio track requires students to complete a 30-60 page portfolio of creative or critical work.
The program curriculum includes courses in literature, rhetoric and composition, and public humanities. Some of the specific courses offered include:
- Consumption, Markets, and Culture
- Rhetorics of Public Memory
- Radical Women Rhetors
- Writing in Public Genres
- Texts and Textiles
- Race in the Medieval World
- Author’s Houses
- Black American Rhetorics
- Cultures of Reading
To be admitted to the program, students must have a bachelor’s degree in English or a related field with a GPA of at least 3.0. They must also submit GRE scores and a personal statement.
There are fees associated with the one-week campus residency.
The University of Wyoming is accredited by the Northwest Commission on Colleges and Universities.
3. The University of Texas of Permian Basin
Average Net Price: $8,106
School Type: Public, Non-Profit
School Accreditation: SACS COC
Acceptance Rate: 65%
The University of Texas of Permian Basin (UTPB) boasts an active online Master of Arts in English degree program, catering to students eager to deepen their understanding of the English language and literature while gearing up for vocations in teaching, writing, publishing, editing, or research.
Delivered entirely through the virtual realm, students wield the freedom to tackle their coursework at their discretion and rhythm. The program dishes out courses at a swift eight-week interval, offering six distinct entry points every year.
To secure a spot in this program, aspiring scholars must possess a bachelor’s degree in English or a related discipline, flaunting a commanding GPA of 3.0 or higher. Furthermore, they must furnish the requisite official transcripts, wield persuasive letters of recommendation, and unveil a compelling personal statement.
This program demands an impressive 36 semester credit hours of coursework. This formidable workload splits into three categories:
- American Literature
- British Literature
- Free English Electives
In addition, students must orchestrate a capstone project, which can take the form of an original research paper, an imaginative burst of creative writing, or the assembly of a comprehensive teaching portfolio.
4. University of Louisiana-Monroe
Average Net Price: $10,950
School Type: Public, Non-Profit
School Accreditation: SACS COC
Acceptance Rate: 70%
The University of Louisiana-Monroe (ULM) extends an opportunity to pursue a Master of Arts in English (MA) degree via an online platform. Geared towards ambitious professionals seeking career elevation in teaching, writing, editing, or English-related domains, this program boasts accessibility and flexibility.
The MA in English at ULM unfolds through two distinct tracks: Literary Studies and Creative Writing. The Literary Studies trajectory immerses students in the exploration of literature, encompassing British and American classics, world literature, and intricate literary theory. Conversely, the Creative Writing avenue sharpens creative writing prowess, embracing fiction, nonfiction, and the lyrical art of poetry.
Students embarking on the MA in English program at ULM will engage in a core curriculum brimming with stimulating courses, comprising:
- Introduction to Literary Studies
- Introduction to Creative Writing
- Research Methods in English Professional Writing
- Seminar in Literary Studies
- Seminar in Creative Writing
Beyond the core, students traversing the Literary Studies track wield the liberty to opt for elective courses, embracing:
- British Literature
- American Literature
- World Literature
- Literary Theory
- Composition and Rhetoric
- Technical Writing
Conversely, students navigating the Creative Writing track can elect from an array of enticing options, including:
- Fiction Writing
- Nonfiction Writing
- Poetry Writing
- Playwriting
- Screenwriting
- Creative Nonfiction
The MA in English at ULM stands as a robust 33-credit hour program, amenable to completion within an intensive two-year span of full-time dedication. Delivered through eight-week online sessions, the program accommodates the most demanding schedules.
Aspiring entrants into the MA in English program at ULM must meet rigorous standards. A bachelor’s degree in English or a cognate field, graced with a commendable GPA of 3.0 or higher, forms the foundational criteria. Alongside this, the submission of GRE scores and two meticulously crafted letters of recommendation is mandatory.
The MA in English at ULM emerges as a pinnacle of academic excellence, poised to catapult students towards uncharted horizons in the realm of English studies. Its online modality, tailored for the exigencies of a working professional, epitomizes the epitome of convenience. Embark on this transformative journey, and watch your English career flourish.
5. Murray State University
Average Net Price: $11,226
School Type: Public, Non-Profit
School Accreditation: SACS COC
Acceptance Rate: 85%
The Master of Arts in English (M.A.) degree program at Murray State University is a 30-hour degree that is available fully online. The program is designed for students who want to teach English at the secondary or postsecondary level, pursue doctoral studies in English, or simply advance their knowledge of the field.
The program offers two routes to completion:
- Traditional: This route is for students who already have a bachelor’s degree in English or a related field.
- 4+1: This route is for students who are currently enrolled in a bachelor’s degree program in English at Murray State.
The core curriculum for the M.A. in English program includes courses in research methods, literary theory, and composition. Students also choose one of four specializations:
- Teaching English Language
- Teaching English Literacy K-Adult
- Teaching English Literature
- Teaching English Writing
In addition to the core curriculum, students must also complete a comprehensive examination and a capstone project.
The M.A. in English program at Murray State University is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSCOC).
The GRE is not required for admission to the program, but it is recommended.
6. University of New Orleans
Average Net Price: $11,548
School Type: Public, Non-Profit
School Accreditation: SACS COC
Acceptance Rate: 81%
The University of New Orleans empowers literary and professional writing careers through its flexible, online Master of Arts in English degree featuring two concentrations:
The Literary and Cultural Studies track builds advanced expertise through core curriculum spanning American and British literature and rhetoric alongside electives tailored to interests like creative writing or literary theory.
By exploring professional writing curriculum for the core supplemented by focused electives, the Professional Writing track cultivates skills for editing, publishing, technical writing, and beyond.
Taught by field experts, the 33-credit program enables learning from anywhere through fully online delivery. Resources like discussion forums, tutoring, and digital course materials support student success.
With customizable concentrations delivered flexibly online, the University of New Orleans equips students with specialized literary and writing competencies to advance their careers.
7. Louisiana Tech University
Average Net Price: $12,065
School Type: Public, Non-Profit
School Accreditation: SACS COC
Acceptance Rate: 66%
Louisiana Tech University’s MA in English program boasts a rigorous 36-credit hour curriculum, offering a fully online pathway to mastery. This program equips students with advanced expertise in either British and American literature or technical writing, presenting them with two distinct concentrations:
- British and American Literature: This concentration primes scholars for college-level English instruction, fosters aptitude in publishing and editing, or facilitates a career in groundbreaking research.
- Technical Writing: Geared towards cultivating professionals adept at precise communication, this concentration opens doors to opportunities in business, government, and various organizations.
Within the MA in English program, all students engage in a foundational core curriculum. This encompassing journey encompasses courses in literary theory, research methodologies, and composition. Furthermore, students delve into courses aligning with their chosen concentration. As a captivating bonus, students are encouraged to explore additional English realms, such as creative writing, film studies, or linguistics, through elective courses.
Louisiana Tech University’s MA in English program proudly bears accreditation from the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSCOC) and is an esteemed member of the Council of Graduate Schools (CGS).
To gain admission to this prestigious program, applicants must hold a bachelor’s degree in English or a related field, replete with a GPA of 3.0 or higher. Additionally, prospective students must provide a GRE or GMAT score, furnish a writing sample, and garner letters of recommendation to bolster their application.
It’s worth noting that there are nominal fees associated with the program, encompassing a technology fee and a student services fee. To facilitate educational pursuits, financial aid options are readily accessible for qualifying students. Louisiana Tech University generously extends a plethora of scholarships, grants, and loans, aiming to ease the financial burden of higher education.
8. National University
Average Net Price: $12,231
School Type: Public, Non-Profit
School Accreditation: HLC
Acceptance Rate: 55%
The Master of Arts in English (MA in English) at National University is a 10-course program that can be completed in as few as 11 months. The program is offered entirely online and is designed for working professionals who want to advance their careers in English studies.
The curriculum of the MA in English program focuses on the following areas:
- Literary analysis and criticism
- Rhetoric and composition
- Research methods
- Teaching English as a second language
- Professional development
Students in the program will also have the opportunity to complete an internship or capstone project.
To be admitted to the MA in English program, students must have a bachelor’s degree in English or a related field with a GPA of 2.75 or higher. They must also submit GRE scores or a writing sample.
9. University of North Alabama
Average Net Price: $12,631
School Type: Public, Non-Profit
School Accreditation: SACS COC
Acceptance Rate: 90%
The University of North Alabama (UNA) offers an online Master of Arts in English (MA) degree, meticulously crafted to cultivate students’ proficiency in literary analysis, research, and writing. Within this program, students are empowered to tailor their focus, choosing from three compelling domains:
- Literature
- Writing
- Linguistics
This immersive academic journey necessitates the completion of a minimum of 36 semester hours, a feat attainable in a mere two years. A myriad of courses await students’ selection, each brimming with intellectual promise:
- British Literature
- American Literature
- World Literature
- Literary Theory
- Rhetoric and Composition
- Linguistics
- Creative Writing
The MA in English represents a culminating degree, deliberately engineered to empower individuals in their professional ascent within realms such as education and business. Regrettably, it is not designed as a springboard into doctoral study.
Earning admission to the MA in English program demands a bachelor’s degree in English or a cognate field, underpinned by a resolute GPA of 3.0 or higher. Additionally, prospective students must furnish GRE scores and secure two compelling letters of recommendation.
10. Arizona State University
Average Net Price: $12,814
School Type: Public
School Accreditation: HLC
Acceptance Rate: 88%
Arizona State University (ASU) offers a Master of Arts in English (MA English) with an Online track in English Studies. This program is designed to provide students with a rigorous and in-depth education in the field of English, with a focus on literature, writing, and linguistics.
The program is offered entirely online, and students can choose from a variety of courses to customize their degree to their interests and career goals. Some of the courses offered include:
- Contemporary Critical Theories
- Posthumanism
- Shakespeare
- Studies in Jane Austen
- American Captivities
- The 19th Century American Novel
- Magical Realism as a Global Genre
- English Drama 1660-1789
- World War II in Literature
- Studies in Environmental Humanities
To be admitted to the program, students must have a bachelor’s degree in English or a related field with a GPA of at least 3.0. They must also submit GRE scores or the ASU Writing Assessment.