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 Uchechukwu Umezurike, English, in CBC Books
Meet the 2026 CBC Poetry Prize readers
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
Understanding Arctic Sea Ice
Dr. John Yackel, PhD, professor in the Department of Geography in the Faculty of Arts, is leading an international team studying Arctic sea ice in the High Arctic. The project will improve satellite measurements to better understand climate change.
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