About the Department of English

Learn about our department faculty and program offerings.

Students listen to a lecture in an English class.

Department of English

There is no better place to study literature and creative writing than on the beautiful campus of the University of Mississippi in Oxford, a town for book lovers. Home in the past to authors from William Faulkner to John Grisham, the impulse to write and read is in the air. In the Department of English, we see ourselves as heirs to the rich literary tradition that permeates the atmosphere and as mentors for a transformative future.

What We Do

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.

Who We Are

Our faculty ranks among the best in the nation. They include award-winning literary scholars and best-selling creative writers who have been recognized with prestigious fellowships and leadership roles in their professional associations. They have won teaching and mentorship awards at every level and are sought across the nation and world as speakers and authors. They produce innovative scholarship and powerful creative writing, and train students at every level for meaningful careers and vibrant futures.

Meet our Faculty

Faculty member Dustin Parsons meeting with student at a desk. They have papers in front of them.

Meet our Faculty

Our faculty are award-winning teachers, acclaimed scholars, and bestselling authors. They create classroom experiences that are life-changing and will help you throughout your academic career at UM.

Browse Faculty by Field

What We Offer

The Department of English offers undergraduate and graduate degrees in Literary Studies and Creative Writing.

Browse our programs in the course catalog

UG

English, B.A.

The B.A. in English at UM prepares students to think critically, conduct research, and craft clear, compelling arguments across various media. Majors study literature and creative writing with acclaimed faculty in a town celebrated for its literary culture. With optional emphases in Creative Writing; Literature, Justice, and Society; or Editing, Writing, and Publishing, graduates gain adaptable skills for a wide range of careers.

Oxford

UG

Creative Writing, B.F.A.

The B.F.A. in Creative Writing at UM immerses students in the craft of writing, workshopping, and publishing across fiction, poetry, screenwriting, and nonfiction. Majors develop essential techniques like worldbuilding and character development while studying influential literary and popular works. Graduates pursue careers in writing, publishing, media, and communications or continue their studies in graduate programs.

Oxford

GRAD

English, M.A.

The M.A. in English at UM prepares students for doctoral studies or careers in teaching, publishing, business, and beyond. With a funded master’s program, we attract talented applicants regardless of financial means. Students work with expert faculty across diverse literary fields and engage with a vibrant literary community through visiting scholars, speaker series, and research groups. Graduates leave well-equipped for advanced study or professional success in a range of fields.

Oxford

GRAD

Creative Writing, M.F.A.

The MFA in Creative Writing at UM offers students three years of fully funded support in Oxford, Mississippi, a town with a rich literary tradition. With a 3:1 student-to-faculty ratio, students receive personalized mentorship in workshops, craft courses, and a thesis year focused on completing a polished manuscript. Our graduates have published widely, earned critical acclaim, and even had their work optioned for television.

Oxford

GRAD

English, Ph.D.

The Ph.D. in English at UM prepares students for careers in postsecondary teaching, literary scholarship, and advanced research. With expert faculty across diverse fields students refine their interpretive, oral, and written skills at the highest level. The program fosters engagement with a vibrant literary community through visiting scholars, speaker series, and research groups. Graduates emerge as skilled educators and scholars equipped to contribute meaningfully to their fields.

Oxford

Our Community

Oxford, MS downtown square at night. Squarebooks Bookstore corner building is focus.

Aerial view of Oxford, MS square. Courthouse is featured in middle.

A Place That Ever Calls

Located 70 miles from Memphis and surrounded by the natural beauty of Northern Mississippi, Oxford boasts thriving music, art, and literary scenes along with great restaurants. UM's athletics provide many opportunities to watch and participate in sports—and one of the world's best tailgating parties.

With everything Oxford has to offer, it's no wonder USA Today named Oxford as one of the Top Six College Towns in the Nation.

Come see why.

Explore Oxford