
100%
Online Option

$270
Tuition Cost per Credit

2 years
Average Completion*
Turn Your Words Into Opportunity
The Bachelor of Arts in English at Athens State University prepares you to communicate with clarity, think critically, conduct meaningful research, and engage with ideas from multiple perspectives. Through the study of literature, language, writing, and culture, you’ll develop versatile skills that can be applied across virtually every industry.
Whether your goal is a career in communications, business, government, education, publishing, or another professional field—or you plan to continue your education in graduate or professional school—an English degree provides a strong foundation for your future.
At Athens State, you’ll gain the knowledge and communication skills to turn your ideas into impact and your degree into career opportunity.
Program Overview
English is about much more than reading and writing. It is the study of how people use language to understand the world, communicate ideas, tell stories, and influence others.
The Bachelor of Arts in English combines the study of literature and language with opportunities to strengthen your writing, research, analytical, and communication skills. You’ll examine works from different periods, cultures, genres, and perspectives while learning to interpret complex ideas, evaluate information, develop thoughtful arguments, and communicate effectively to different audiences. These skills are increasingly valuable in a workplace where employers need professionals who can make sense of information, solve problems, communicate clearly, and adapt to changing circumstances.
Whether you already have a specific career in mind or want a degree that gives you flexibility as your goals evolve, the English program at Athens State can help you build a foundation for what’s next.
What You’ll Learn
Throughout the program, you’ll develop a deeper understanding of literature, language, and culture while building practical skills that extend well beyond the classroom. Your coursework will challenge you to read closely, think critically, conduct research, construct persuasive arguments, and communicate your ideas effectively in both written and spoken forms. You’ll explore literary works across different genres and historical periods while developing an appreciation for the ways literature reflects and shapes society.
You’ll also strengthen your command of written communication, grammar, research methods, and analytical thinking. These capabilities can help you become a more effective writer, communicator, researcher, and problem-solver—skills that can serve you throughout your career.
By the time you complete the program, you’ll be prepared to analyze information thoughtfully, communicate with purpose, and approach complex questions with confidence.
Your Career Advantage Starts Here
An English degree can take you in more directions than you might expect.
The ability to write well, communicate effectively, analyze information, and understand different perspectives is valuable in virtually every professional environment. English graduates can apply these skills in communications, marketing, public relations, publishing, government, business, nonprofit organizations, education, and many other fields.
Explore your career pathways with the B.A. in English, including anticipated salaries, annual job growth, and even active job listings through the Career Concourse portal.
$52k
English Teacher Estimated Entry Salary
$67k
English Teacher Estimated Median Salary
Estimated salary and employment information based on labor market data provided by Career Concourse and is intended for informational purposes only. Actual salaries and employment outcomes vary based on factors such as experience, location, industry, and employer and are not guaranteed upon degree completion.
Admissions & Aid
Athens State University is committed to making a high-quality bachelor’s degree accessible and affordable for transfer students and working adults.
Whether you’re transferring after completing an associate degree, returning to college to finish your bachelor’s degree, or continuing your education after time in the workforce, Athens State offers a straightforward path toward your degree.
Our Admissions & Aid team can help you understand admission requirements, transfer credit, financial aid, scholarships, and other options for making your education more affordable.
Ready to take the next step? Explore your admission and financial aid options and see how Athens State can help you reach your goals.
Why Choose this Program at Athens State?
Life doesn’t stop while you’re earning your degree. That’s why the Bachelor of Arts in English is offered through a variety of flexible course formats, allowing you to complete coursework when it fits your schedule without sacrificing academic quality.


Built for Today’s Professionals
You shouldn’t have to choose between advancing your education and advancing your career. Athens State’s degree programs are designed with working professionals in mind. Flexible learning options allow you to pursue your degree while continuing to meet your professional and personal commitments.

Invest in Your Future The Smart Way
Athens State University is committed to providing an affordable, high-quality education. As Alabama’s most affordable public, state university, we give you the opportunity to earn an advanced degree while making a smart investment in your future, without unnecessary debt. Plus, our learning partnerships make a degree from Athens Sate even more accessible.

Learn from Experienced Faculty
Our faculty combine academic excellence with real-world experience, bringing current industry practices into every course. At Athens State, you’re not facing the journey alone—our dedicated, knowledgeable faculty and staff walk alongside you each step of the way, providing personalized guidance and support.
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*Average completion time varies by student and depends on prior credits
transferred to Athens State and the number of courses taken per semester.
Please consult with your Student Success Coach and faculty advisor for your personalized plan of study.