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

15 faculty members named UCalgary Research Excellence Chairs

Prestigious program champions research prowess and leadership across disciplines

UCalgary English students and volunteers create paper out of flax, enriching their book-making process

Year-long endeavour in prof Maria Zytaruk's class combines sustainability with history

UCalgary scholars reflect on Asian heritage and the academy

Learning continues after Asian Heritage Month

Transdisciplinary exhibit highlights water expertise across fields

BRACKISH brings together students, faculty and UCalgary community members March 6-14

In Memoriam: Helen Buss, Faculty of Arts

Feminist academic sought to expose the bare truths of systems of oppression; campus flag lowered Feb. 29, 2024

In the media

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

In the News Joshua Whitehead, English, International Indigenous Studies, in The Hamilton Spectator

Shaping the next generation of storytellers

In the News Kit Dobson, English, in Globe and Mail

Opinion: The answer to book bans? Read banned books

Mental Health Services, UCalgary

Mental Health Services for students

Seeking mental health support and improving your understanding of mental health can have a positive impact on your wellbeing. Book a one-at-a-time appointment with the embedded counsellor in the Faculty of Arts.

Learn more or book an appointment

Department Facebook

Department Facebook

Join the Department of English conversation.

X (formerly Twitter)

X (formerly Twitter)

Keep up to date with the Department of English.

Creative Writing Facebook

Creative Writing Facebook

Join the Creative Writing conversation.