2026 Most Affordable Online Master's Degrees in English
Explore the cheapest online master's degrees in English through the lens of verified tuition data and authentic student experiences.
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Choosing one of the most affordable online master's degrees in English can help you pursue advanced skills in writing, analysis, and literary studies without the high cost of a traditional graduate program.
Key Takeaways:
- East Carolina University combines the lowest annual in-state tuition ($4,571) for an English master's degree online with one of the highest student recommendation rates (92%) and is the only school on the list with available program-specific median salary data ($54,390), giving prospective students multiple indicators of value.
- Montana State ranks third overall for in-state affordability, its out-of-state tuition ($7,107) for an English master's online is among the lowest on the entire list, making it one of the strongest nationwide options for students living outside the state.
How We Rank "Most Affordable" Schools
The OnlineU research team manually collects and verifies tuition data for every school on our lists, ensuring you see accurate, up-to-date costs whether you're pursuing an associate, bachelor's, master's, or doctoral program. To qualify, schools must offer fully online degrees, hold institutional accreditation, and have verifiable enrollment data through the National Center for Education Statistics. While some of our rankings include partner schools, every school is evaluated using the exact same criteria.
We prioritize schools that offer a consistent tuition rate across programs at the same degree level, so you're not caught off guard by unexpected price differences between majors, and for graduate programs we go a step further by individually calculating program costs since credit requirements and fees vary widely.
2026 Most Affordable Online Master's Degrees in English
| Rank | School | Annual In-State Tuition | Annual Out-of-State Tuition | Recommendation | Median Salary |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| East Carolina University | $4,571 | $17,226 | 92% | $54,390 | |
| University of Central Florida | $4,754 | $19,005 | 94% | N/A | |
| Montana State University | $5,264 | $7,107 | 88% | N/A | |
| Tarleton State University | $5,928 | $15,648 | 88% | N/A | |
| Texas Tech University | $6,012 | $6,012 | 93% | N/A | |
| University of Nebraska at Kearney | $6,372 | $10,206 | 92% | N/A | |
| Indiana University - Indianapolis | $6,390 | $9,000 | 94% | N/A | |
| Indiana University - South Bend | $6,390 | $9,000 | 78% | N/A | |
| The University of Texas at Tyler | $6,534 | $15,228 | 90% | N/A | |
| University of Southern Indiana | $6,704 | $7,454 | 86% | N/A | |
| Eastern Illinois University | $7,057 | $15,228 | 87% | N/A | |
| The University of Texas Permian Basin | $7,119 | $7,119 | 75% | N/A | |
| South Dakota State University | $7,261 | $7,261 | 91% | N/A |
Online Degree:
What Sets This Program Apart:
- East Carolina has the #1 cheapest English master's degree online at $4,571/year for in-state residents.
- There are two potential pathways, including Multicultural and Transnational Literatures and Technical and Professional Communication. The former is particularly distinctive because it organizes literature around the movement of people, cultures, and ideas (instead of traditional national literary canons).
- Online students can pursue either a traditional thesis or a Comprehensive Assessment Project, and distance learners are treated as full participants throughout the research process.
2 Student Reviews for Master's in English Degrees
I am currently working on my Master's in English, Multicultural and Transnational Literatures through their all-inclusive online degree. The professors are extraordinary, go out of their way to prepare future scholars, and instill a sense of commitment... Read More
It was a good fit. I wanted to become a teacher, and the college specialized in teacher prep. Choose something you love doing. Don't choose a major based on possible earnings later.
Student Review Summary: Reviews of East Carolina University are largely positive, with students consistently praising caring professors, accessible support staff, and a welcoming campus culture that feels large yet personal. Many say the school offers strong value through affordable tuition, practical coursework, hands-on learning, internships, research access, and flexible online options that work well for employed adults. Students also highlight diversity, abundant clubs, athletics, and an active college-town atmosphere. Criticism centers on uneven advising, some weak departments or individual instructors, heavy workloads in certain online courses, limited post-graduation support, safety concerns in Greenville, and occasional frustration with proctored exams, outdated materials, or scarce professional opportunities.
This is an AI-generated overview of real student feedback submitted to OnlineU, highlighting common themes and insights. The summary was reviewed for accuracy.- Graduate Online: 3,497 enrolled
- Median Earnings: $54,390
- Avg. Grad. Rate: 63%
- Retention Rate: 83%
Online Degree:
What Sets This Program Apart:
- This English master's is built around translating complex information into clear, usable communication for settings such as education, government, nonprofits, and corporate environments.
- The program explicitly states that applicants do not need a bachelor’s degree in English, which makes it a stronger fit for professionals in technical, administrative, nonprofit, education, or corporate roles who already work with complex information and want to become better communicators.
3 Student Reviews for Master's in English Degrees
I am a black international student and when I walk on campus I do not see enough black students or students from other ethnicity to enable the type of diversity that should be there. I like that the campus is huge (first or second largest campus in the... Read More
UCF has very supportive faculty and staff. I love it here.
The professors are really engaging and love to do what they can to be of aid in and out of the classroom; most can easily be reached via email or phone/text, and swiftly respond to address questions regarding the course or general concerns. The biggest... Read More
Student Review Summary: Reviewers describe UCF as a large, opportunity-rich university where success depends heavily on initiative. Many praise helpful, passionate professors, strong internship, research, and networking access, and a campus with abundant clubs, amenities, and school spirit that can make a huge school feel like home. Students often say career preparation improves when they use office hours, advising, career services, and experiential learning early. Common frustrations include oversized classes, difficult scheduling, parking, uneven advising, and recurring complaints about financial aid and administrative responsiveness. Several also note that some fields feel less supported, less current, or weaker in direct job placement than others.
This is an AI-generated overview of real student feedback submitted to OnlineU, highlighting common themes and insights. The summary was reviewed for accuracy.- Graduate Online: 3,637 enrolled
- Median Earnings: N/A
- Avg. Grad. Rate: 78%
- Retention Rate: 92%
Online Degree:
What Sets This Program Apart:
- Throughout this English program, students explore how adolescents develop literacy, how curriculum can become more equitable and inclusive, and how place, identity, and community shape classroom learning. The department explicitly describes teachers as public intellectuals working within complex educational environments, and required courses incorporate classroom-based research projects.
- Students are encouraged to participate in the Yellowstone Writing Project, a long-running National Writing Project affiliate that brings accomplished teachers together to study writing, improve their own craft, and share classroom practices.
Student Review Summary: Reviews portray Montana State University as a welcoming, academically solid place where approachable professors, small upper-level classes, and abundant resources help many students build confidence, research experience, and career momentum. Students frequently praise the Bozeman setting, citing outdoor recreation, an energetic town, and strong campus involvement as major quality-of-life advantages. Several reviews also note practical benefits such as tutoring, scholarships, networking, and hands-on learning. Criticism centers on uneven support, underfunded areas, housing and communication frustrations, rising class sizes, high summer costs, and some cases where coursework felt too theoretical or did not translate clearly into jobs after graduation.
This is an AI-generated overview of real student feedback submitted to OnlineU, highlighting common themes and insights. The summary was reviewed for accuracy.- Graduate Online: 397 enrolled
- Median Earnings: N/A
- Avg. Grad. Rate: 57%
- Retention Rate: 79%
Online Degree:
What Sets This Program Apart:
- Tarleton State's online MA in English compresses a relatively broad English graduate curriculum into an 18-month format without making it feel like a single-track professional program.
- Online English students can choose between Literature and Professional Writing and Rhetoric, and both concentrations offer thesis and non-thesis options.
- The curriculum includes areas such as digital humanities, grant and proposal writing, technical editing, visual rhetoric, intercultural technical and professional writing, disability rhetoric, scholarly writing in health, and literature in practice.
Student Review Summary: Reviews of Tarleton State University are largely favorable, with repeated praise for a welcoming, family-like culture, approachable faculty, and strong advising. Many reviewers say they felt supported from admission through graduation, valued the small classes, and appreciated one-on-one help, hands-on learning, and flexible online or hybrid formats that fit full-time work and family responsibilities. Several also highlight affordability, convenience, and practical instruction that connects to careers. Criticism centers on uneven quality across departments, confusing administrative rules, limited course availability, extra online fees, weak financial aid support, parking and transit issues, and some online courses or required classes feeling like busy work.
This is an AI-generated overview of real student feedback submitted to OnlineU, highlighting common themes and insights. The summary was reviewed for accuracy.- Graduate Online: 1,433 enrolled
- Median Earnings: N/A
- Avg. Grad. Rate: 48%
- Retention Rate: 70%
Online Degree:
What Sets This Program Apart:
- TTU states that online students take the same courses, with the same professors, and earn the same degree as on-campus students.
- This English graduate program is fully synchronous, meaning online students join live class discussions and integrate with onsite graduate students in many courses. That gives the online format a more seminar-like identity.
- TTU also deserves attention for offering a defined Linguistics concentration inside the MA in English. Students can study topics such as phonology, syntax, morphology, sociolinguistics, as well as Old and Middle English.
Student Review Summary: Reviews portray Texas Tech University as a broadly satisfying experience anchored by caring professors, strong community, and practical opportunities, but with uneven execution across departments. Many reviewers praise accessible faculty, responsive advisers, research openings, career support, and a campus culture that feels welcoming, spirited, and easy to get involved in. Lubbock is often described as isolated or quiet, yet still a comfortable college town with strong school pride. Criticisms center on inconsistent teaching quality, disorganized expectations, limited communication in some departments, heavy workloads, and mixed career outcomes, especially when coursework felt overly theoretical, under-supported, or disconnected from job placement after graduation.
This is an AI-generated overview of real student feedback submitted to OnlineU, highlighting common themes and insights. The summary was reviewed for accuracy.- Graduate Online: 2,638 enrolled
- Median Earnings: N/A
- Avg. Grad. Rate: 69%
- Retention Rate: 85%
Student Review Summary: Reviews of the University of Nebraska at Kearney are largely favorable, driven by strong ratings and frequent recommendations. Students consistently praise small class sizes, approachable professors, prompt advising, and a supportive atmosphere that makes both online and on-campus learning feel personal. Many value the flexibility of fully online and blended courses, saying they can keep working while completing rigorous coursework. Several reviews highlight meaningful research, practical assignments, tutoring, internships, and community involvement. Criticisms center on uneven online teaching quality, occasional heavy or unstructured workloads, weak financial aid communication, limited face-to-face interaction, and some concerns about organization, diversity, or outdated information.
This is an AI-generated overview of real student feedback submitted to OnlineU, highlighting common themes and insights. The summary was reviewed for accuracy.1 Student Review for Master's in English Degrees
The graduate school program is very competitive and the opportunities for improving your writing skills are endless. There is financial support when presenting your work at conferences and the staff is cooperative and willing to assist any student with... Read More
- Graduate Online: 1,490 enrolled
- Median Earnings: N/A
- Avg. Grad. Rate: 58%
- Retention Rate: 80%
Student Review Summary: Reviews of Indiana University - Indianapolis are broadly positive, with praise centered on accessible professors, strong mentoring, and practical learning through internships, research, service-learning, and downtown professional connections. Many reviewers say the school works especially well for commuters and working adults because of evening, weekend, and online flexibility. Affordability and in-state value are recurring strengths, along with diversity and a supportive, smaller-scale feel in some departments. Criticism focuses on inconsistency: some faculty are excellent while others are disengaged, and several reviewers describe weak advising, disorganization, limited course availability, and poor administrative follow-through. Safety, parking, housing, and campus community also draw repeated complaints.
This is an AI-generated overview of real student feedback submitted to OnlineU, highlighting common themes and insights. The summary was reviewed for accuracy.1 Student Review for Master's in English Degrees
One of the advantages of the Applied Linguistics programs at IUPUI is that the instructors are very knowledgeable and have a considerable amount of experience in the field. Also, they relay their experiences in concise and creative ways that help to interpret... Read More
- Graduate Online: 1,607 enrolled
- Median Earnings: N/A
- Avg. Grad. Rate: 54%
- Retention Rate: 72%
Student Review Summary: Reviews portray Indiana University South Bend as a generally strong value option, especially for commuters and working adults who want a recognized degree close to home. Students frequently praise approachable, knowledgeable faculty, small classes, practical coursework, and career-oriented guidance that makes it easier to build connections and apply learning in real settings. Several mention a supportive environment for transitioning into school and finding community despite the smaller campus. Criticisms focus on limited financial aid for international students, inconsistent professor quality, inconvenient class scheduling, the surrounding neighborhood, and a few outdated, poorly managed offerings with canceled courses and weak direction.
This is an AI-generated overview of real student feedback submitted to OnlineU, highlighting common themes and insights. The summary was reviewed for accuracy.- Graduate Online: 102 enrolled
- Median Earnings: N/A
- Avg. Grad. Rate: 40%
- Retention Rate: 65%
Student Review Summary: Reviews of The University of Texas at Tyler are largely favorable, driven by strong ratings and frequent recommendations. Students consistently praise caring, accessible professors, small classes, and timely feedback that make it easier to get individualized help. Many also value flexible online and hybrid formats, affordable tuition, scholarships, useful campus jobs, and career-oriented learning with practical experience, certifications, and exam or workforce preparation. The main complaints center on inconsistent administration: unreliable advising, scholarship or financial-aid disputes, limited course availability, last-minute scheduling changes, weak communication, and some departments described as disorganized, retaliatory, or uneven in teaching quality.
This is an AI-generated overview of real student feedback submitted to OnlineU, highlighting common themes and insights. The summary was reviewed for accuracy.- Graduate Online: 1,923 enrolled
- Median Earnings: N/A
- Avg. Grad. Rate: 54%
- Retention Rate: 77%
Student Review Summary: Reviews of the University of Southern Indiana are largely favorable, with students praising a beautiful, safe campus, small classes, approachable professors, and a supportive atmosphere that feels close-knit rather than impersonal. Many say the instruction is rigorous but practical, helping them feel career-ready through hands-on learning, early field exposure, networking, and flexible online options for working adults. Affordability and strong value also stand out. The main criticisms center on inconsistent advising, limited internship promotion, and workloads that can feel heavy or filled with busy work, especially for those balancing full-time jobs. One sharply negative review cites costly misdirection and poor academic guidance.
This is an AI-generated overview of real student feedback submitted to OnlineU, highlighting common themes and insights. The summary was reviewed for accuracy.- Graduate Online: 1,731 enrolled
- Median Earnings: N/A
- Avg. Grad. Rate: 48%
- Retention Rate: 75%
Student Review Summary: Reviews of Eastern Illinois University are broadly positive, driven by strong ratings and frequent praise for small classes, approachable professors, and individualized advising. Many reviewers say faculty knew them personally, offered open-door support, and created opportunities for research, internships, teaching, and career clarification that would be harder to find at larger schools. Affordability, transfer friendliness, and flexible formats also stand out. The main criticisms center on uneven academic rigor, limited depth in course content, aging facilities, restricted scheduling, and a quiet rural setting with fewer activities, shopping, transportation, and networking resources. A few reviews describe especially poor online instruction and weak disability support.
This is an AI-generated overview of real student feedback submitted to OnlineU, highlighting common themes and insights. The summary was reviewed for accuracy.- Graduate Online: 677 enrolled
- Median Earnings: N/A
- Avg. Grad. Rate: 47%
- Retention Rate: 72%
Student Review Summary: Reviews of The University of Texas Permian Basin are largely positive, with many praising small class sizes, approachable instructors, and flexible online formats that fit around full-time work and family schedules. Several reviewers say the coursework is rigorous, engaging, and good value for the cost, with some noting strong preparation for future careers and useful networking opportunities. Support from advisers, admissions staff, and many professors stands out. Negative feedback centers on inconsistent teaching quality, unrealistic workloads in some courses, delayed grading, poor communication, transfer-credit problems, advising errors, and slow, sometimes discourteous administrative and financial aid service.
This is an AI-generated overview of real student feedback submitted to OnlineU, highlighting common themes and insights. The summary was reviewed for accuracy.1 Student Review for Master's in English Degrees
I think that the pros of this graduate program are the different types of courses that are offered and what a student can learn from them. There are also numerous opportunities for networking with people who are interested in the teaching field which... Read More
- Graduate Online: 1,125 enrolled
- Median Earnings: N/A
- Avg. Grad. Rate: 40%
- Retention Rate: 61%
Student Review Summary: Reviews portray South Dakota State University as a generally strong, supportive experience with broad academic options, approachable professors, and a campus that feels well maintained, close-knit, and home-like despite offering plenty of activities and organizations. Many reviewers value affordable tuition, practical learning, internships, career preparation, and flexible online coursework that fits work and family obligations. Several also highlight quality facilities, accessible advisers, and opportunities for professional growth. Criticism centers on isolated but serious reports of toxic departmental leadership, inconsistent instruction, unfair grading practices, limited transportation, rough weather, slower small-town pace, limited diversity, and some missing course offerings.
This is an AI-generated overview of real student feedback submitted to OnlineU, highlighting common themes and insights. The summary was reviewed for accuracy.- Graduate Online: 320 enrolled
- Median Earnings: N/A
- Avg. Grad. Rate: 62%
- Retention Rate: 84%
Annual tuition is a helpful starting point. That said, it doesn't always reflect what you'll ultimately spend on your degree.
Most schools in this ranking can be completed in about two years, making total tuition relatively easy to compare. However, programs such as Tarleton State University and The University of Texas Permian Basin are designed to be completed in approximately 18 months, allowing students to finish sooner and potentially lower their overall education costs while entering the workforce earlier.
When comparing affordable online master's degrees in English, looking at both annual tuition and expected program length provides a clearer picture of the total financial investment.
Stories Behind the Cheapest Online Master's Degrees in English: An Editorial Analysis
Strong Student Confidence at a Low Price
University of Central Florida
Among the lowest-cost English master's programs, UCF pairs affordability with the highest verified recommendation rate on the list (94%, tied). Its annual tuition of $4,754 is only slightly higher than the lowest-priced program, suggesting students don't have to spend substantially more to attend a university that former students consistently recommend. For applicants who value peer experiences alongside affordability, UCF presents one of the strongest combinations in the ranking.
The Broadest Career Map on the List
Tarleton State University
Many affordable English master's programs quietly assume students have one destination, usually teaching or doctoral study. At Tarleton, English students interested in literature, publishing, dual-credit teaching, technical communication, rhetoric, composition, digital humanities, grant writing, or editing all find coursework that supports those goals. Even the graduate assistantships reflect that versatility, allowing students to progress from Writing Center consulting to observing composition courses and eventually teaching them.
An Online English Master's Degree Without an Online Identity
Texas Tech University
Texas Tech makes an unusual promise, which is that online students are not enrolled in an adapted version of the master's program 鈥� they are enrolled in the master's program. Many universities quietly separate online students into different sections, instructors, or curricular experiences, but Texas Tech integrates online students into the same graduate seminars with the same professors and expectations. The department even highlights synchronous discussion as one of the defining characteristics of the online experience, emphasizing conversation and intellectual community over independent coursework.
FAQs About Affordable Online English Master's Programs
What Can Students Expect From an Affordable Online English Master's Program?
The best online English master's degree programs offer students a comprehensive education in the English language and literature, preparing them for various career opportunities in fields such as education, publishing, journalism, and more.
These programs equip students with a wide range of technical skills, including critical analysis, research proficiency, and advanced writing capabilities. Additionally, students typically develop soft skills such as effective communication, problem-solving, and creativity.
Throughout your master's studies in English, you can expect to engage in diverse projects and assignments. These may include in-depth literary analyses, research papers, creative writing projects, and collaborative discussions. You may also be able to select a concentration, such as a particular period or type of literature, technical writing, rhetoric, creative writing, or linguistics.
Full-time English master's degree students are often able to complete their degree requirements in two years, but part-time students may need an additional year. To be accepted into a master's in English program, you'll need to have earned a bachelor's degree while maintaining a high GPA of at least 3.0. Your undergraduate degree doesn't necessarily have to be in English or writing, but if it's not, you may need to begin by taking several prerequisite courses, which could increase the cost of your master's degree.
What Will You Study in an Online English Master's Program?
At the master's level, most online English degree programs are a mix of required core courses and electives that allow you to customize your studies. Toward the end of your program, you may be required to submit a written thesis, take a comprehensive exam, or present a master's portfolio or some other kind of capstone project.
Among the core courses often found in an English master's degree program are:
- Literary Theory and Criticism: In this course, students delve into various critical approaches to literature, gaining a deeper understanding of how literary works are analyzed and interpreted. Assignments are designed to provide opportunities to apply theories and concepts to real-world situations.
- Creative Writing Workshop: Students enhance their creative writing skills by producing and critiquing their own literary works, including poetry, fiction, and nonfiction works. Some students' work may be published in the school's literary magazine or a similar publication.
- Modern American Literature: This course explores American literature from the late 19th century to the present, examining key literary movements and authors. Instructors often strive for diversity in their reading assignments, allowing students to experience many types of writing and voices.
- Research Methods in English: Students learn advanced research techniques, honing their ability to gather and analyze literary sources for scholarly projects.
How Can You Lower the Cost of an Online English Master's Degree?
One of the most significant considerations when you're deciding if you should pursue an online English degree is how you're going to pay for it. Before you apply to any program, you may want to map out your budget to determine how much you can afford, and then compare it to an estimated cost of earning a master's degree.
With any degree, the tuition fees make up the majority of the total cost. To get a ballpark estimate of tuition for a master's degree, we can use data published by the National Center for Education Statistics (NCES). The data show that the for graduate programs at public universities in the 2021-22 school year was $12,596, while the average at private institutions was $28,017. Clearly, a public school is likely to be a more affordable choice than a private school.
However, as you can see from our list of the most affordable master's in English degrees above, there are many additional cost-effective options that will let you save money. Choosing an online program could save you thousands of dollars since many schools charge lower tuition rates for online students than they do for on-campus students.
Additional ways to reduce the expense of an English master's degree include working at a full-time or part-time job to earn extra income and minimizing living expenses by moving to a city or state with a lower cost of living. Also, be sure to check with your employer to see if you qualify for a tuition reimbursement program.
What Financial Aid Is Available for Online English Master's Students?
Of course, one of the most popular ways to offset the cost of a college degree is to seek financial aid. To apply for most types of aid, you simply fill out and submit the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA). After your financial situation has been evaluated, your school will notify you with a financial aid letter if you qualify for funding from the federal or state governments or your school.
If you receive an offer of financial aid, your aid package may contain different types of aid. The best types are grants and scholarships because they typically don't have to be repaid. For example, if you're pursuing a master's degree in English so you can teach middle school or high school, you may qualify for a , which is a federal program funded by the U.S. Department of Education.
Your aid package may also include an offer of a student loan. You may be given a choice in the type of loan you can take out, so remember that federal student loans often have better repayment terms and lower interest rates than private student loans.
What Careers Can an Online English Master's Degree Prepare You For?
A master's in English opens doors to a variety of rewarding career opportunities. The Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) provides job descriptions, average salaries, and job growth projections for many of these potential occupations.
Many people pursue English master's degrees because they want to become secondary or postsecondary English teachers. College-level instructors often focus on teaching one aspect of English, such as literature or writing, while high school and middle school teachers usually take a broader approach.
The BLS notes that secondary teachers earn a and that the number of teaching jobs is expected to remain the same through the end of the decade. For postsecondary English teachers, the , with job growth projected at 7% (faster than average). If you plan to pursue a career as a secondary teacher, you will need to obtain state-issued teaching certification before you can work in the public school system.
Although many other related occupations do not require an English master's degree, you may want to pursue an advanced degree to hone your skills and enhance your expertise. With this additional knowledge, you may feel better prepared to become a writer (), technical writer (), or editor ().
Pursuing a doctoral degree in English offers even greater opportunities for specialization and career advancement. It can lead to roles in academia, research, and leadership positions within the field, with the chance to contribute to the ongoing discourse in English studies.
How Do You Compare Affordable Online English Master's Programs?
Choosing the best online English master's degree program for your needs requires careful consideration. First, you'll want to thoroughly examine the program's curriculum and possibly concentrations to see if they support your career goals and personal interests. Other factors that may be important to you are tuition fees, notable faculty members, student services, and the availability of financial aid.
Another helpful way to compare English master's program online is by looking at student reviews. These are verified by the OnlineU research team and represent authentic student feedback, a firsthand perspective that's incredibly valuable.
Another essential characteristic to look for is institutional accreditation. Enrolling in an accredited program is a sign that you're going to receive a quality education, and it's required if you hope to qualify for financial aid. Rest assured, that every single online school across OnlineU has been vetted for this as a quality baseline.
Can an Online English Master's Degree Prepare You to Teach?
Yes, a master's degree in English, especially when paired with some teaching or education courses, can qualify you to teach at the middle school, high school, or community college level. However, for college-level positions, a PhD may be needed, especially for tenure-track positions at universities.
What Are the Admission Requirements for an Online English Master's Program?
The admission requirements for English master's degree programs can vary, but generally speaking, you'll need a bachelor's degree to be considered. Your undergraduate degree may be in English, creative writing, communications, or journalism, or it may be in an unrelated subject. However, if you haven't yet taken any relevant courses, you may be required to complete several prerequisite courses before taking courses in the master's programs. Remember to factor these additional courses into your budget if needed.
The schools you're applying to may also request a copy of your undergraduate transcripts and possibly GRE scores. Your transcripts may need to show that you maintained a GPA of 3.0 or higher. Other common requirements include one or more letters of recommendation, a statement of purpose explaining why you want to pursue this degree, and a resume.
Is an Affordable Online English Master's Degree Worth the Investment?
It's hard to determine whether an online English master's degree will be worth it before you've earned the degree. While an advanced degree may qualify you for better-paying positions, the BLS data for most of the relevant positions suggest that you may never earn a particularly high salary.
However, there is nothing wrong with deciding to pursue a degree simply for the sake of knowledge and expertise. If you believe that getting a master's is the right next step, you may want to look for ways to increase the return on your investment by choosing an affordable online English degree and taking other cost-cutting measures.
Student Reviews of Online English Programs
ASU is a fantastic choice for beginning or continuing a university level education. The staff is easily approachable and ready to share a wealth of knowledge to help foster your learning. There are many program options to choose from as well, and a number of interesting and inspiring elective course options. In addition, the Tempe main campus is located right in the heart of a social network with so many options to choose from for dining out, shopping, and other opportunities for social activities.... Read More
Review Date: 6/16/2026
Would Recommend: Yes
Helpful for Career: Yes
National University offers a flexible and accessible path for students who need to balance education with work and personal responsibilities. The one-month course format allows you to focus on one subject at a time, which can be helpful for staying organized and making steady progress. This structure works especially well for adult learners and those returning to school.
The faculty are generally supportive and bring real-world experience into the classroom, which adds value to the learning experience.... Read More
Overall, National University is a solid option for motivated students looking for a flexible, career-focused education. It鈥檚 best suited for those who are proactive, organized, and comfortable with an accelerated learning environment.
Review Date: 3/20/2026
Would Recommend: Yes
Helpful for Career: Yes
I loved attending Northern Arizona University online. I had mostly great professors who ended up informing my own teaching practices/style now (actually READING and RESPONDING to student work, for example -- and our responsibility in shaping, not merely maintaining, the canon). I learned the fundamentals of English literature and then some. I do wish there had been a few more options of electives to take... feels like everyone in my cohort had essentially the same education and I wished I had the... Read More
Review Date: 4/2/2026
Would Recommend: Yes
Helpful for Career: Yes
The overall MS English program with an Education Specialty was satisfactory. Most instructors were on task and provided guided timely feedback. I must deduct stars however from the program as a whole. Two of the required courses are a complete waste of time. We spent eight weeks studying Grant Writing as a Graduate English class from a little, flimsy text. This should be a one week topic for a class in nonfiction writing. The second class that was a total waste time was the Social Media Campaign... Read More
Review Date: 8/1/2022
Would Recommend: Yes
Helpful for Career: No
The courses are good, or seem pretty good, and some of the profs are very good. But there are major down sides. One is that you teach yourself. The design of the courses eliminates lectures and live discussion, which should be the heart of these courses. Worse, the vast majority of students in this program are unprepared. They mostly mean well, but have shockingly little writing or analytic skills, and many of them simply put little to nothing into the courses. Since the program is based on "peer"... Read More
Review Date: 6/30/2016
Would Recommend: Yes
Helpful for Career: No
Mercy College is a challenging program that has various modes of instruction available. For me it is great because I live in Miami, but I can still benefit from the instruction given in New York. The online programs are rigorous and really get you to think. While there is an astronomical amount of reading, it is feasible with a student who is meticulous with scheduling.
Review Date: 3/31/2017
Would Recommend: Yes
Helpful for Career: No
ACE is an appropriately challenging graduate experience. Working through this degree, I surmise my home situation was similar to many online graduate students. I work full-time, I am married and I also have young children. I still managed to successfully complete my studies at ACE in under the time frame suggested; I even doubled up one semester due to limited availability of classes to finish my program in the originally planned 17 months. So all together, I finished the degree 15 months after starting... Read More
Review Date: 10/9/2019
Would Recommend: Yes
Helpful for Career: Yes
I needed an online program, and Tiffin offered an MH in English at an affordable rate. I am writing this review 1 year after graduation. I am an English teacher going into my 5th year of teaching. This degree has increased my earning potential and is allowing me to pursue an online PhD in Education. I highly recommend this program for teachers as it is helpful and recognized in our field. I loved the professors; I do believe the courses have made me better in my field.
Review Date: 8/7/2019
Would Recommend: Yes
Helpful for Career: No
I enjoy the online classes. The professors are thorough and help make it clear their expectations and requirements. The instructors are knowledgeable and helpful. Reaching counselors and department heads for advice is easy, and I have always received timely responses to my inquiries. The school keeps you up to date with your requirements and makes sure you feel welcomed and up to date with important information.
Review Date: 8/31/2016
Would Recommend: Yes
Helpful for Career: No
SNHU'S English program stresses literary analysis, critical thinking, and written communication skills through a rigorous curriculum. I would highly recommend this university for a rewarding and enlightening learning experience! I appreciate it!!!
Review Date: 1/5/2017
Would Recommend: Yes
Helpful for Career: Yes
SNHU is a wonderful nonprofit university. he staff is encouraging and supportive. They have helped to quickly resolve any issues which have arose. One of my instructors have been influential in setting my career goals. I can only hope to be as great a teacher as she has been.
Review Date: 9/24/2016
Would Recommend: Yes
Helpful for Career: Yes
I am an online student of SNHU. While I currently am employed full-time in another state, SNHU provides me the opportunity to continue education in my field. Through their online program, I am able to interact with peers, receive feedback, and challenge myself educationally weekly in an online setting.
Review Date: 2/13/2015
Would Recommend: Yes
Helpful for Career: No
The M.A. in English and Creative Writing at Southern New Hampshire University offers an appealing degree of flexibility in selection of courses, which primarily divide along a line between creative writing courses and literature courses. That aspect of the program is certainly a valuable asset to the student dedicated to developing the writer's craft. However, the problem with this educational model is that the student inevitably encounters inconsistency in grading and in requirements for the composition... Read More
Review Date: 6/26/2015
Would Recommend: Yes
Helpful for Career: No
The specific classes are great as are the professors for online classes. The counseling and anything admin is a nightmare. No one responds unless you hound them. Other than that I am happy with the knowledge the professors impart and the workload.
Review Date: 10/20/2015
Would Recommend: Yes
Helpful for Career: No
Online graduate programs, no matter how you look at it, are difficult. Not having a teacher to talk to directly can be a drawback. However, SNHU instructors, from what I can see, are great with email and phone, and most are willing to help you along the way. They are understanding when things go awry. After all--most of us have full-time jobs on top of grad school. The most difficult thing is classroom discussion. No amount of blackboard discussion can replace peer interaction and good face-to-face... Read More
Review Date: 3/2/2015
Would Recommend: No
Helpful for Career: No
For full time employees, the University of Phoenix is ideal for achieving a successful undergraduate education. However, for higher education, I think it is essential to change schools to both broaden horizons and challenge students. For my English MA program, I chose Arizona State University Online, which offers a wide variety of graduate programs that are identical to on-campus classes for online students.
Review Date: 11/10/2016
Would Recommend: Yes
Helpful for Career: No
I loved attending Heritage University. The instructors were(are) fabulous: helpful, encouraging, trusting, non-judgmental. I have earned two MAs through Heritage University, one in an on-campus, weekends setting, and the other completely on line. In the first instance, the instructor pool was comprised of local professionals employed in education as principals, superintendents, and other administrators; the best mentors to initiate us into a higher level of service. My online experience was equally... Read More
Review Date: 3/5/2017
Would Recommend: Yes
Helpful for Career: Yes
The program is a lot of work, but the connections made with faculty and other students make it worthwhile.
Review Date: 1/23/2013
Would Recommend: Yes
Helpful for Career: No
I truly enjoy the online English M.A. graduate program at SNHU! The classes are well-structured and have a great balance of interactive and independent work. Everyone I have spoken to from the school (admissions, financial aid) has been truly helpful. My academic adviser is accessible, helpful and friendly. What sets them apart is that they take a genuine interest in their students. They go above and beyond to support their students in anyway they can.
Review Date: 1/16/2014
Would Recommend: Yes
Helpful for Career: No
Online work is accessible and rigorous. Stellar learning atmosphere. Some professors are not very personable or understanding.
Review Date: 2/6/2014
Would Recommend: Yes
Helpful for Career: No