10 Fastest Accelerated Online Master’s of English Programs

Badge for FASTEST ONLINE MASTER'S IN ENGLISH LITERATURE

By Dr. James Barham
Reviewed By Jenn Finley

Published: Jul 7, 2023
Updated: Mar 28, 2024

Key Takeaways

Online accelerated degree programs in English allow students to complete a master’s degree more quickly than a traditional degree program.
Because online accelerated programs in English can be completed when it is most convenient, they help students juggle busy work and family lives.
Accelerated online master programs in English can give graduates a boost in career opportunities and higher-than-average salaries.

Fastest Online Master's in English Degree Programs

Indiana University Bloomington
Arizona State University
Ohio University
Texas Tech University
University of Central Florida
University of Memphis
Bowling Green State University
East Carolina University
Old Dominion University
Texas A&M University–Commerce

Indiana University Bloomington
Arizona State University
Ohio University
Texas Tech University
University of Central Florida
University of Memphis
Bowling Green State University
East Carolina University
Old Dominion University
Texas A&M University–Commerce

Old Dominion University 95%
University of Memphis 95%
East Carolina University 92%
Arizona State University 90%
Ohio University 87%
Texas A&M University–Commerce 86%
Indiana University Bloomington 82%
Bowling Green State University 79%
Texas Tech University 67%
University of Central Florida 41%

University of Central Florida 29 to 1
Texas Tech University 21 to 1
Texas A&M University–Commerce 20 to 1
Arizona State University 19 to 1
Ohio University 18 to 1
East Carolina University 18 to 1
Bowling Green State University 17 to 1
Indiana University Bloomington 17 to 1
University of Memphis 17 to 1
Old Dominion University 16 to 1

Ohio University $13,352
Bowling Green State University $11,272
Arizona State University $10,978
Indiana University Bloomington $10,012
Texas Tech University $8,935
University of Memphis $8,352
Old Dominion University $7,239
Texas A&M University–Commerce $4,790
University of Central Florida $4,478
East Carolina University $4,452

Arizona State University $12,014
Old Dominion University $10,519
Indiana University Bloomington $10,033
Ohio University $9,444
University of Memphis $9,378
Bowling Green State University $8,418
Texas Tech University $6,956
University of Central Florida $6,916
East Carolina University $4,749
Texas A&M University–Commerce $3,630

Texas A&M University–Commerce
Old Dominion University
East Carolina University
Bowling Green State University
University of Memphis
University of Central Florida
Texas Tech University
Ohio University
Arizona State University
Indiana University Bloomington

Texas A&M University–Commerce
Old Dominion University
East Carolina University
Bowling Green State University
University of Memphis
University of Central Florida
Texas Tech University
Ohio University
Arizona State University
Indiana University Bloomington

University of Central Florida 41%
Texas Tech University 67%
Bowling Green State University 79%
Indiana University Bloomington 82%
Texas A&M University–Commerce 86%
Ohio University 87%
Arizona State University 90%
East Carolina University 92%
University of Memphis 95%
Old Dominion University 95%

Old Dominion University 16 to 1
Bowling Green State University 17 to 1
Indiana University Bloomington 17 to 1
University of Memphis 17 to 1
Ohio University 18 to 1
East Carolina University 18 to 1
Arizona State University 19 to 1
Texas A&M University–Commerce 20 to 1
Texas Tech University 21 to 1
University of Central Florida 29 to 1

East Carolina University $4,452
University of Central Florida $4,478
Texas A&M University–Commerce $4,790
Old Dominion University $7,239
University of Memphis $8,352
Texas Tech University $8,935
Indiana University Bloomington $10,012
Arizona State University $10,978
Bowling Green State University $11,272
Ohio University $13,352

Texas A&M University–Commerce $3,630
East Carolina University $4,749
University of Central Florida $6,916
Texas Tech University $6,956
Bowling Green State University $8,418
University of Memphis $9,378
Ohio University $9,444
Indiana University Bloomington $10,033
Old Dominion University $10,519
Arizona State University $12,014

Table of Contents

An online master in English degree is beneficial for those looking for a boost in their career. This degree can help students develop a range of adaptable talents that can translate across multiple job industries.

The average time to graduation for a traditional master’s degree is two years. But with the help of an accelerated online master in English degree, students can graduate in as early as 12 months!

What are accelerated online programs in English?

Accelerated online master programs in English follow the exact coursework requirements as as a traditional master’s program. The main difference between the two is the time to graduation.

While accelerated online graduate programs can be finished in 12 to 18 months, traditional master’s degrees require two years. An accelerated master’s degree in English typically has shorter courses of 7-8 weeks rather than 12-16 in traditional courses. This means that an online accelerated English degree usually has a more demanding curriculum because of the condensed timeframe.

Methodology for Determining the Best Accelerated Online Graduate Programs in English

Our ranking focuses on English and English-related accelerated master’s degrees offered in online programs or a hybrid format. The most common degrees on the list are Master of Arts in English.

Each of the colleges or universities on the list has also been regionally accredited by one of the six accrediting bodies recognized by the United States Department of Education. They include:

Higher Learning Commission (HLC)
Middle States Commission on Higher Education (MSCHE)
New England Commission of Higher Education (NECHE)
Northwest Commission on Colleges and Universities (NWCCU)
Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSCOC)
Western Association of Schools and Colleges (WASC)

Female writer sitting in front of her laptop

The Top 10 Accelerated Online Master’s in English Programs

Career Outlook for Students with English Degree

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English Language And Literature

Degree Level: Master's

Location: The U.S. (Private Schools)
Avg. Starting Salary*: $43,452
Avg. Salary after 4 Years*: $50,710
* denotes ‘annually’

Career Salaries

Career	Job Growth	Avg. Salary
English Language and Literature Teachers, Postsecondary	1.14%	$69,035
Secondary School Teachers, Except Special and Career/Technical Education	1.03%	$61,619
Proofreaders and Copy Markers	-4.17%	$45,885

Average Career Salaries

Bottom 10%	Median	Top 10%
$42,191	$61,170	$92,879

Promising Job Markets

State	Cost of Living	Avg. Salary
#2 New York	5% higher than average	$80,873
#3 Oregon	11% higher than average	$85,325
#4 Utah	4% higher than average	$69,470
#5 Connecticut	18% higher than average	$84,385
#6 Vermont	13% higher than average	$79,130
#7 Michigan	15% higher than average	$59,450
#8 New Mexico	7% higher than average	$64,490
#9 Texas	10% higher than average	$62,117
#10 Alabama	13% higher than average	$59,465
#11 Rhode Island	20% higher than average	$81,540
#12 California	26% higher than average	$85,653
#13 Idaho	7% higher than average	$62,005
#14 Ohio	14% higher than average	$57,510
#15 Pennsylvania	5% higher than average	$63,360
#16 South Carolina	8% higher than average	$60,685
#17 Delaware	2% higher than average	$67,540
#18 Tennessee	14% higher than average	$56,315
#19 New Jersey	13% higher than average	$74,100
#20 Minnesota	4% higher than average	$62,393
#21 Arizona	5% higher than average	$61,210
#22 Illinois	7% higher than average	$59,783
#23 Wyoming	2% higher than average	$62,480
#24 Maine	9% higher than average	$69,035
#25 Louisiana	9% higher than average	$56,825
#26 Washington	7% higher than average	$66,897
#27 Nevada	5% higher than average	$64,030
#28 West Virginia	11% higher than average	$54,195
#29 Mississippi	18% higher than average	$50,030
#30 Wisconsin	7% higher than average	$56,670
#31 Kentucky	14% higher than average	$51,990
#32 Georgia	13% higher than average	$52,533
#33 Virginia	5% higher than average	$57,183
#34 Indiana	11% higher than average	$53,137
#35 Alaska	23% higher than average	$72,955
#36 Missouri	16% higher than average	$49,097
#37 Iowa	9% higher than average	$52,927
#38 South Dakota	7% higher than average	$53,770
#39 North Carolina	11% higher than average	$50,993
#40 Nebraska	6% higher than average	$53,443
#41 Maryland	18% higher than average	$67,070
#42 Montana	3% higher than average	$54,495
#43 Kansas	9% higher than average	$51,193
#44 Arkansas	16% higher than average	$46,953
#45 Massachusetts	24% higher than average	$68,703
#46 Florida	6% higher than average	$52,020
#47 North Dakota	average	$54,870
#48 Colorado	3% higher than average	$55,557
#49 New Hampshire	13% higher than average	$57,757
#50 Oklahoma	13% higher than average	$44,457
#51 District of Columbia	49% higher than average	$74,220
#52 Hawaii	40% higher than average	$49,735

Top Industries

Industry	Avg. Salary
English Language and Literature Teachers, Postsecondary	$69,035
Secondary School Teachers, Except Special and Career/Technical Education	$61,619
Proofreaders and Copy Markers	$45,885

Data from The Bureau of Labor Statistics, The Department of Education College Scorecard, The Department of Education NCES, and The Council for Community and Economic Research.

What You Need To Know About Accelerated Online Master’s in English Programs

It is increasingly true that regardless of the job market you are interested in, competition will be stiff. As a result, more and more people are considering pursuing online programs for a master’s degree to secure higher-paying jobs. However, most students are worried about the time they’ll potentially lose in pursuing another degree.

A traditional master’s degree in English requires two years of your time. Spending two more years in school implies more missed income and possibly more student debt.

Fortunately, today, technological advancements have made it easier for working professionals to finish an advanced degree sooner. Students have access to various online programs, especially online accelerated degree programs. Instead of spending two years on campus, students can complete graduate courses in an accelerated online master’s degree in as few as 12 months without visiting the campus.

But before you get too excited, you should know that most accelerated master’s degrees have strict entrance requirements.

You’ll often need a 3.0 or higher GPA to compete with other applicants. You’ll also need stellar letters of recommendation from previous instructors, current employers, or respected people in your community/industry. You must also create a writing sample showcasing your top-tier writing skills.

You may wonder why many online colleges and universities with fast and accelerated program options have stricter requirements than traditional degree programs. The answer is simple. Fast and accelerated online programs require students to complete traditional coursework in a condensed amount of time, which means that students need more self-motivation and self-discipline.

What You’ll Learn in Accelerated Online Master’s in English Degree Programs

Students who earn an online master’s in English are taught to comprehend and evaluate literature, language, and creative writing in various circumstances. Depending on the school and program specialty, a master’s in English program may offer different specific courses.

However, most MA in English degrees examine well-known literary works, contemporary copywriting strategies, and linguistics related to English usage.

Literary Theory and Criticism

This course investigates several theoretical methods for analyzing and interpreting literary works. Students learn about several critical frameworks and schools of thought, including structuralism, post-structuralism, feminism, and postcolonialism.

American Literature

Studying American literary works from various historical periods, such as colonial literature, the American Renaissance, modernism, contemporary writing, and other literary movements, is the main focus of this course.

British Literature

This course explores significant works and authors in British literature, including writers from the Renaissance, Victorian era, modernist, and postmodern movements.

Genre Studies

Literary genres like poetry, drama, novel, short stories, or specific subgenres within these categories are covered in depth in genre studies courses. Students examine various genres’ historical and cultural significance while analyzing and interpreting works in them.

Linguistics and Language Studies

Language structure, syntax, semantics, phonetics, and sociolinguistics are all topics covered in linguistics courses. Students gain knowledge of the nuances of language and how it relates to communication, literature, and culture.

Research Methods

Students gain the skills and information essential for undertaking literary study in research methods courses using research tools and resources, scholarly writing, critical analysis, and literature reviews.

Teaching Literature and Writing

Courses that prepare individuals to instruct writing and literature at the college level are available in some programs. These classes address curriculum design, effective teaching methods, and pedagogical techniques.

World Literature

This course examines literature from various countries and places, introducing students to literary traditions, writers, and works.

Writing and Rhetoric

These programs emphasize rhetorical analysis and advanced writing techniques. Depending on their interests and program requirements, students may write for academic purposes, creatively, professionally, or for research.

Job Opportunities for Graduates of Online Programs Offering a Master’s in English

Employees with a bachelor’s typically make $2.27 million throughout their careers, whereas those with an advanced degree can make up to $3.65 million. This striking wage disparity demonstrates that getting a master’s degree can significantly increase your income.

While a graduate program in English will prepare you for numerous employment options, a graduate with a master’s degree in English would be particularly well-suited for the following jobs:

Post-Secondary Instructor

English master’s degree holders are frequently the best candidates for teaching roles. This curriculum will equip you to begin teaching for most community colleges or online undergraduate courses, even if you need further certification or licensure to teach at the primary or secondary level.

Average Median Annual Salary: $79,640

Job Growth: 12 percent

Source: US Bureau of Labor Statistics

Editor

A natural path into the editing profession may be found for English graduates who love the written word and are interested in the publishing industry. A good sense of the English language is helpful whether you want to use the internet as a publishing platform, compile the day’s top news for a newspaper, or assist budding authors in realizing their goals of penning bestsellers.

Although the BLS lists a bachelor’s degree as the minimum degree needed for this position, the advanced abilities you would acquire through a master’s program can improve your chances in this very competitive employment market.

Average Median Annual Salary: $63,350

Job Growth: 5 percent

Source: US Bureau of Labor Statistics

Survey Researcher/Analyst

The analytical skills acquired in a graduate-level English degree program give you the foundation for a compelling survey analyst resume if you are data-driven and have good arithmetic skills. According to BLS, they design, carry out, and analyze surveys, and their skills are in demand across various businesses.

Your capacity to recognize and use analytical approaches to an investigation may lead to employment in higher education, nonprofits, the federal government, the military, or even the armed forces.

Average Median Annual Salary: $59,740

Job Growth: 6 percent

Source: US Bureau of Labor Statistics

Writer and Author

Magazines, pamphlets, social media posts, websites, blogs, commercials, PR announcements, and more require someone to write them. Everyone, from business owners to political candidates, is looking for excellent writers to convey their stories as good writing is the foundation of how the world connects in the digital age.

BLS advises enhancing your education with an experience like blogging, journalism, and internships to strengthen your résumé because writing positions frequently draw a big application pool.

Average Median Annual Salary: $69,510

Job Growth: 4 percent

Source: US Bureau of Labor Statistics

Freelancer

If you want to become your own boss, you can pursue freelancing. By 2027, freelance workers will potentially make up more than 50% of the American labor force. More than 53 million Americans are now making a living from jobs other than the standard 9 to 5 jobs, according to the BLS. Pursuing free lance work can build the writing and analytical skills many firms want for initiatives beyond their existing personnel pool if you obtain a master’s degree in English.

You can join this expanding economic trend by establishing yourself as a qualified editor, virtual assistant, social media manager, or copywriter.

Bottom Line: Graduates of an online accelerated master’s program in English are qualified for numerous jobs across multiple industries. The skills acquired in this online degree program are transferable to many different careers.

Skills Obtained from Online Accelerated Master’s in English Degrees

Students who pursue an accelerated online English master’s degree gain useful abilities that they can use in personal, academic, and professional settings. Listed below are just a few of the abilities frequently acquired through English accelerated master’s programs online:

Advanced Writing Skills

Students learn advanced writing techniques, such as critical analysis, persuasive writing, research writing, and the ability to explain complex concepts through reading and writing assignments effectively.

Critical Thinking and Analysis

Students gain knowledge of literary analysis, interpretation, and other cultural expressions. They learn to assess arguments critically, recognize themes, evaluate literary devices, and participate in scholarly conversation.

Research and Information Literacy

The emphasis on research methodology and information literacy is common in accelerated master’s programs. The techniques taught to students include conducting thorough literature studies, locating and assessing reliable sources, and using research techniques on their projects and queries.

Adaptability and Time Management

Students in accelerated programs must manage a heavy workload within a condensed time frame. They learn how to effectively manage their time, be flexible, and meet deadlines without sacrificing the caliber of their work.

Intercultural Competence

Students can improve intercultural competency by studying many literary traditions and connecting with different ideas. They develop a better appreciation for and understanding of many cultures, improving their capacity to negotiate cross-cultural encounters successfully.

Digital Literacy and Technology Skills

Students learn digital literacy skills as technology is increasingly important in academia and the workplace. They learn how to use digital resources, databases, and multimedia platforms pertinent to the study of literature and language as well as its communication.

Leadership and Initiative

Some accelerated programs allow students to assume leadership positions by facilitating conversations, providing peer mentorship, or planning academic events. This develops initiative, leadership, and the capacity to assume accountability for academic and professional activities.

Bottom Line: Graduates with an accelerated online master’s in English have gained skills far beyond those of just good writing. These skills include highly transferable job skills such as critical thinking, time management, research, digital literacy, and leadership.

Student Submitted Questions About the Fastest Accelerated Online Master’s in English Degrees

What are the admission requirements for accelerated online Master’s in English programs?

Specific admission requirements vary from school to school. While some have lenient requirements, others require extensive and competitive admissions processes. However, the most common requirements to be eligible for accelerated master’s in English programs include:

A bachelor’s degree from an online program at a regionally accredited higher education institution
Undergraduate transcripts
Letters of recommendation
Personal statements.

Other grad schools may also require a minimum GPA of 3.0.

How long does it take to complete an online accelerated English master’s degree?

Online accelerated English master’s degrees require full-time enrollment. The precise completion time depends on several factors, most significantly on how many courses per semester a student takes. But generally, accelerated master’s degrees take an average of 1 year.

Do you have a question about this topic? Ask it here

10 Fastest Accelerated Online Master’s of English Programs

Key Takeaways

Fastest Online Master's in English Degree Programs

What are accelerated online programs in English?

Methodology for Determining the Best Accelerated Online Graduate Programs in English

The Top 10 Accelerated Online Master’s in English Programs

Career Outlook for English degree at Indiana University Bloomington

Most Influential Alumni

What we love about Indiana University Bloomington

Indiana University Bloomington is ideal for students who:

Indiana University Bloomington might not be the best fit for students who:

Career Outlook for English degree at Arizona State University

Most Influential Alumni

What we love about Arizona State University

Arizona State University is ideal for students who:

Arizona State University might not be the best fit for students who:

Career Outlook for English degree at Ohio University

Most Influential Alumni

What we love about Ohio University

Ohio University is ideal for students who:

Ohio University might not be the best fit for students who:

Career Outlook for English degree at Texas Tech University

Most Influential Alumni

What we love about Texas Tech University:

Texas Tech University is ideal for students who:

Texas Tech University might not be the best fit for students who:

Career Outlook for English degree at University of Central Florida

Most Influential Alumni

What we love about the University of Central Florida:

The University of Central Florida is ideal for students who:

The University of Central Florida might not be the best fit for students who:

Career Outlook for English degree at University of Memphis

Most Influential Alumni

What we love about the University of Memphis:

The University of Memphis is ideal for students who:

The University of Memphis might not be the best fit for students who:

Career Outlook for English degree at Bowling Green State University

Most Influential Alumni

What we love about Bowling Green State University:

Bowling Green State University is ideal for students who:

Bowling Green State University might not be the best fit for students who:

Career Outlook for English degree at East Carolina University

Most Influential Alumni

What we love about East Carolina University:

East Carolina University is ideal for students who:

East Carolina University might not be the best fit for students who:

Career Outlook for English degree at Old Dominion University

Most Influential Alumni

What we love about Old Dominion University

Old Dominion University is ideal for students who:

Old Dominion University might not be the best fit for students who:

Career Outlook for English degree at Texas A&M University–Commerce

Most Influential Alumni

What we love about Texas A&M University–Commerce

Texas A&M University is ideal for students who:

Texas A&M University might not be the best fit for students who:

Career Outlook for Students with English Degree

English Language And Literature

Degree Level: Master's

Career Salaries

Average Career Salaries

Promising Job Markets

Top Industries

What You Need To Know About Accelerated Online Master’s in English Programs

What You’ll Learn in Accelerated Online Master’s in English Degree Programs

Literary Theory and Criticism

American Literature

British Literature

Genre Studies

Linguistics and Language Studies

Research Methods

Teaching Literature and Writing

World Literature

Writing and Rhetoric

Job Opportunities for Graduates of Online Programs Offering a Master’s in English

Post-Secondary Instructor

Editor

Survey Researcher/Analyst

Writer and Author

Freelancer