How to find the bachelor’s degree program that matches your interests and career goals
You love literature, writing and communication. You’d like your passions to be part of your online degree program. But you’re not sure which bachelor’s degree is best for you — English, creative writing or communication studies — or which of these programs will lead to the rewarding career you want.
Sound familiar?
The information in this article could help to make the degree programs seem distinct. And there’s good news about potential jobs for people who choose these programs.
Career outlook with an online liberal arts degree
Liberal arts degree programs, including the three Oregon State University online programs we’re comparing here, focus on building communication, analysis, problem-solving and collaboration skills. Through your coursework, you learn to seek information, collaborate with peers and communicate clearly. Those are precisely the kinds of skills today’s employers want.
In the 2025 NACE Job Outlook Survey, more than two-thirds of responding employers said they’re looking for applicants with strong verbal communication skills, adaptability and analytical skills.
In a separate 2025 survey, a majority of senior executives said skills like communication, problem-solving and collaboration are lacking among their younger workers.
The skills you build in the study of English, creative writing or communication online with Oregon State can serve you in any job throughout a long career. And the love of learning you cultivate as a student can help you prepare for new career paths if you decide to pivot into a new field or degree program.
Comparing your three degree program choices
OSU’s English, creative writing and communication studies degree programs share common themes. They’re all broadly related to the expression of thoughts and the sharing of ideas. But who is speaking, how thoughts are distributed and typical career paths are a little different for each.
English bachelor’s degree
In the online English bachelor’s degree program, you’ll study a wide range of literature, from medieval poems to adapted screenplays to literary criticism. Reading is a key part of your coursework, but written assignments and group discussions offer the opportunity to express your thoughts about each piece.
“The English major is great for people who want to discuss literary texts in depth and research the worlds they represent and were produced in,” said Rebecca Olson, professor with Oregon State’s School of Writing, Literature and Film. “English majors practice building arguments that uncover elements in a text that are not obvious to all or upon a first reading,”
An English degree can prepare you to work as a teacher, technical writer, marketing specialist or editor. Reading works written by others can help you hone core skills like information literacy and critical thinking, which can be applied to almost any job you can think of.
Creative writing bachelor’s degree
In the online creative writing bachelor’s degree program, you’ll study literature across cultures and periods, much like in the English program. But assignments help you to refine your voice as a writer and learn to craft narratives that highlight your experiences, dreams and perspective.
“The creative writing major is for students who want to explore how to study, create and challenge narratives in their own writing practice, whether it be for personal or professional reasons,” said Brittni Wisner, head advisor with the School of Writing, Literature and Film. “The core of the major is the genre-specific writing workshop, where students study and develop their own craft.”
A degree in creative writing can prepare you for any type of work that involves writing. You could become a novelist, journalist or technical writer. The strong story development skills you build could also lead to success in marketing. And your ability to think critically and conduct research could lead to success across a wide variety of disciplines and roles.
Communication studies bachelor’s degree
In the online communication studies bachelor’s degree program, you’ll study all forms of communication, including written and spoken. You’ll also explore how people connect and collaborate individually and in large groups while strengthening skills in both evaluating messaging and developing your own.
“Communication studies deals with the practice of communication. Going beyond writing or speaking, communication is the study of understanding human behavior, developing meaningful relationships and making our voice heard to drive actual change in the world,” said Elizabeth Root, associate professor with the School of Communication.
“A major in communication studies offers critical and strategic insights needed to understand evolving audiences and environments, empowering you to create opportunities for meaningful impact,” she said.
A degree in communication studies can prepare you for a wide range of jobs, from human resources manager to market research analyst to public relations specialist. Your strong skills in strategic messaging, team collaboration and conflict negotiation could also be the basis for deeply rewarding careers across industries.
Explore your options with Oregon State
A liberal arts degree is an investment in your future — and research suggests it’s a good one. Now, it’s your turn to determine which online degree program is right for you.
If you’re still not sure, Oregon State’s Career Development Center provides robust tools you can use to explore your options and make an informed choice. Or contact us to learn more about the programs available online through Oregon State.
Learn more about learning online with nationally ranked Oregon State University.
