Department of English
Why study English?
At UCalgary Arts Department of English, we go beyond textbook learning.
Our courses will build your skills in speech and writing. We value curiosity and healthy skepticism and teach you to think critically. You'll learn to read and write thoughtfully and effectively, key skills for life and work.
Dive into new worlds and exciting ways of thinking!
Our classes challenge you with lively discussions and stimulating readings. Join us and start something extraordinary.
Your writing career begins here
You don't have to be an English major to Create Something.
Our creative writing courses are open to applications from any student or community member.
Calgary Distinguished Writers Program
The Calgary Distinguished Writers Program launches the careers of Canadian writers, bridging the university and the wider Calgary community. The program offers free events, manuscript evaluations, and community connection.
News and announcements
English professor Dr. Clara Joseph, PhD, appointed Calgary Poet Laureate
University of Calgary award-winning poet to serve as Calgary’s eighth Poet Laureate from 2026-2028
Reimagining community, justice and the environment through poetry
Rita Wong, BA’90 and her career in poetry and scholarship
Transdisciplinary Connector Grants Awarded
Faculty of Arts plays central leadership and collaboration roles across the UCalgary campus
In the media
In the News Clara A.B. Joseph writing in The Conversation Canada
As Calgary’s poet laureate, I’m interested in poetry as a form of civic listening
In the News Dania Idriss, English, the Calgary Herald
Calgary author mixes folklore, horror, coming-of-age and Lebanese history in debut collection
In the News Clara A.B. Joseph in The Catholic Register
Calgary poet laureate's work, life guided by prayer
In the News Susan Bennett in NPR
Would you go to a play by yourself? Theaters are hoping so
Faculty of Arts psychology professor leads global study on childhood adversity
Dr. Sheri Madigan, PhD, professor in the Department of Psychology, co-led an international study examining adverse childhood experiences across 102 countries. Published in The Lancet Public Health, the research highlights the lasting impacts childhood adversity can have on health and well-being.
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