English
We are devoted to literature as a living tradition and a dynamic contemporary enterprise, and to writing as a way of knowing, a means of connecting, and one of the most powerful inventions in human history.
Contact
Neville, Room 304
Orono, ME 04469
P
207.581.3822
F
207.581.3886
About
As an English major, you will gain insight into the complexities of human experience, appreciation of our cultural heritages, openness to different ways of thinking and feeling, and understanding of how language shapes reality. You’ll also hone your abilities to think critically and to communicate your views and visions.
New Writing Series
Our New Writing Series represents the whole spectrum of possibilities for contemporary writing, including poetry, prose, translation, and new media, with an emphasis on innovative, adventurous, and/or unduly neglected writing. In addition to giving public readings, writers often visit classes or give workshops, providing our students a sophisticated understanding of the contemporary world of creative writing.
Undergraduate Studies
Coursework for a Bachelor of Arts in English provides comprehensive instruction in the resources of English, its language and literature. This instruction is central to a liberal education and fundamental preparation for graduate liberal arts and professional programs. Courses in English teach critical and original thinking and communication. Knowledge gained from majoring in English provides excellent preparation for a wide range of careers that depend on critical and creative thinking and the ability to communicate clearly and persuasively.
The literature curriculum is designed to provide students with a broad-based foundation in English and American literature as well as in-depth inquiry into focused areas of literary study. Within this curriculum students are encouraged to read creatively and to discover what others have not seen. Students are asked to present these discoveries in writing in a persuasive way that allows others to see their importance. The literature program is enhanced and supported by links to the Center for Poetry and Poetics (formerly the National Poetry Foundation), an internationally recognized center for the study of modern poetry.
Graduate Studies
The University of Maine Master of Arts in English engages MA candidates as scholars, teachers, and artists who understand that individual excellence is developed within a community that values respectful exchange and a strong network of peer and mentor support. All of our program’s areas of expertise—poetics, writing studies, literature, creative writing—centralize dialogue, experimentation, and collaboration. We responsibly challenge received ideas in our disciplines with a passion for new approaches and a nuanced understanding of our histories. Our degree culminates with a professional portfolio our graduates use to advance their goals toward PhD or MFA programs, teaching careers, employment in the private or public-sector, or personal growth.
Our graduate students are central actors in our intellectual community: they serve on committees, organize events, participate in research expos, and have their own symposium. Students can also apply for a third year of funding through our competitive Ulrich Wicks Distinguished Teaching Assistantship. Our program offers a professionalizing environment in which to enhance your knowledge, explore new ideas, and gain experience while continuing to do what you love: read, write, and think critically.
Publications
