Department of English
WHAT WE DO
We practice literary studies and creative writing. As scholars and students of literature, we read British, American, and World Literatures from the Medieval period to today, and celebrate and investigate the written word, film, and other media as essential to our history and contemporary society. As creative writers, we move and inform through the craft of fiction, poetry, screenwriting, and other genres. In our classrooms, students strengthen their ability to read, analyze, and communicate in ways that are enduring and adaptable across the professions.
Studying Literature and Creative Writing
Our students learn about literature and creative writing in small classes that focus on the individual. Exploring a variety of genres—from fiction to poetry to film and beyond—our programs develop cultural appreciation for how literature shapes our communities, our globe, and our selves. Students learn to write with clarity and style, to move, persuade, and entertain. By examining the historical and ethical dimensions of literature, they discover the power of language and develop critical thinking and communication skills that are in high demand in today’s competitive job market.
Learn more about English from our faculty and students
Academic Programs
Undergraduate Programs
Our students go everywhere and into every profession. Learn about our program offerings at the undergraduate level:
- B.A. in English with optional emphases in Creative Writing; Editing, Writing, and Publishing; and Literature, Justice, and Society
- B.F.A. in Creative Writing
- Minors in English and Creative Writing
Graduate Programs
Learn about our M.A. and Ph.D. in English and M.F.A. in Creative Writing.
Department Leadership and Support
From student advising to career planning and beyond, our leadership team is here to support faculty, students, and alumni.
Caroline Wigginton
- Chair and Professor of English
Daniel Stout
- Associate Chair and Associate Professor of English
Scott MacKenzie
- Director of Undergraduate Studies and Associate Professor of English
Jason Solinger
- Director of Graduate Studies and Associate Professor of English
Melissa Ginsburg
- Director of Graduate Creative Writing Programs and Associate Professor of English and Creative Writing
Dustin Parsons
- Director of the BFA in Creative Writing and Senior Lecturer of English and Creative Writing
Myra Gilmore
- Staff Assistant II
April Wootten
- Operations Coordinator II
Meet Our Student Ambassadors
Caroline McCutchen
What would you tell a high school student about your major?
See Caroline’s Answer
Kayden Breedlove
Why did you choose to attend UM?
See Kayden’s Answer
Natalie Gumm
Why did you choose to attend UM?
See Natalie’s AnswerUpcoming Events
English in the News
Stay up to date with our students and faculty.
Arts & Culture / Events
OXFORD, Miss. – This spring, the already impressive number of talented writers in Oxford will multiply as more than 20 of the nation's leading and emerging authors, poets, scholars and artists gather for the Oxford Conference for the Book.
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Faculty News -
Faculty News / Honors & Awards -
Commencement
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