Three female English undergraduate students from different ethnic backgrounds look at a laptop together in a classroom.

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.

Francine Cunningham and Leah Horlick smile at the camera.

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.

Start something literary today

News and announcements

With no 'how to' guide, Schulich students build their own historic Gutenberg-style printing press

Historically accurate printing press now in use at the Book Arts Lab

Outstanding members of UCalgary Arts honoured

Faculty awards recognize Arts community's achievements and influence

New publishing awards ensure Faculty of Arts authors reach goals

Monograph supports encourage the publication of new books

“It’s hard to be wise. Let’s talk about it”: Embracing stories of struggle in teaching and learning

UCalgary professor Faye Halpern’s work acknowledges failure as a valid part of education

In the media

In the News Kit Dobson, English, in CBC Radio

Setting standard for school library books

In the News Jim Ellis, English, Calgary Institute for the Humanities, in Global TV

New UCalgary book explores humanity’s fascination with the vast unknown of space

In the News Jim Ellis, English, Calgary Institute for the Humanities, in Calgary Herald

To boldly go: New U of C collection looks at the beauty, mystery and controversy in our obsession with the cosmos

In the News Rebecca Sullivan writing in The Conversation Canada

The Gothic horror of Alice Munro: A reckoning with the darkness behind a feminist icon

In the News Suzette Mayr, English, in Calgary Arts Development

Art to the Rescue

In the News Suzette Mayr, English, in The Calgary Herald

Calgary's Suzette Mayr on shortlist for venerable Dublin Literary Prize

UCSafety App

Be prepared. Stay safe. Stay connected.

Receive mass alerts in case of an emergency, access emergency contacts at the touch of a button, check in when you study or work alone, browse well-being resources, and more!

Learn more abou the UCSafety app

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