Literary Arts

The University of Alberta's literary arts history dates back to the early 1900s. One of the original four departments at the University, the English Department was established in 1908. Edmund Kemper Broadus, the first professor in the department, initially set the standard for those entering the program. The English department is still a strong and vital part of the University with a variety of options for people wanting to concentrate in the area of literature and writing.

The bachelor of arts honours degree in English is a four year program that focuses on various important time periods and styles in literature, including old and middle English literature, early renaissance literature, later renaissance literature, romantic and 19th century literature, 20th century literature, and Canadian literature. Students may apply to enter the honours program after their first year, provided they have at least six course weights in English and the appropriate grades. While in the program, students must maintain a high standing in order to be promoted and graduate. Graduate programs in the literary arts are also offered at the University of Alberta, allowing students to delve even deeper into their chosen fields and focus on specific areas of interest.

Writing courses, offered at University of Alberta help to teach students the skills and methods of thinking and analysis required to write for a variety of situations. F.M. Salter, the third head of the English department and an accomplished author, was the first to institute a writing course in 1939. Over the years, the University's creative writing professors have included accomplished writers such as Rudy Wiebe, author of more than 20 books and winner of the Governor General's Award.

Courses focusing on poetry, fiction and non-fiction writing are the mainstay of the University writing program and students are instructed through discussions, readings and lectures. Many of the courses operate on a workshop basis, whereby students gather together in groups and critique each other's work. Writers often find the best way to promote creative thought and expression is by talking to other writers and reviewing their work.

Another way that the University of Alberta fosters an interchange of ideas and perspectives is through its Writer-in-Residence Program. As the longest continuously running program of its kind in Canada, the program strives to link established authors with other Albertan writers, thereby promoting a stimulating environment for both parties. Writers-in-residence are a great resource since they can provide writing critiques and advice on how to go about getting a manuscript published. In addition, writers-in-residence will often make appearances at a literature or creative writing classes at the University, offering words of encouragement and advice for aspiring writers. The writers-in-residence also conduct readings at the University and within the community.

For more information about programs offered at the University of Alberta and the Writer-in-Residence Program click on the follow the link.