Our English Program provides an array of courses unusually wide for a department of our size, offering classes in Journalism, Creative Writing, Film, Composition, and Professional Writing along with American, British, and World Literature, and Literary Theory. In and out of the classroom, we seek to meet the unique learning needs of each student and work hard to ensure that you are prepared to succeed, whether you go on to graduate school or directly into a career. We teach you the ways in which language shapes our lives, how to interpret and respond to the texts you encounter, and prepare you to communicate clearly, convincingly, and compellingly. In these ways, you become active shapers of knowledge and your world. Master these skills in our English Program, and you will find yourself prized by employers in almost any field.
Program Highlights
Small = Better Writing
We keep our creative writing classes small so students get lots of feedback and individual attention.
Get Published
Our literary journal Upcountry gives you the chance to submit your work, see it in print, and, if you want to get more involved, maybe even serve as a student editor.
Be a Reporter
Our student newspaper, the University Times, is led by one of our faculty members and lets students learn the journalistic ropes.
An Author Among Us
UMPI is home to accomplished writers, including Richard Lee Zuras, whose contributions to literature and academia enrich the university’s cultural landscape.
EXPECT generous scholarships
EXPECT generous scholarships
Small = Better Writing
UMPI offers small creative writing classes that provide an intimate and supportive environment for aspiring writers. These classes emphasize individualized instruction, allowing students to receive personalized feedback and guidance from experienced faculty members. The curriculum covers various genres, including fiction, poetry, and non-fiction, fostering a diverse and comprehensive writing experience. Students engage in workshops, peer reviews, and writing exercises designed to enhance their creative skills and literary techniques. The small class sizes promote a close-knit community where students can freely express their creativity and collaborate with fellow writers.
Get Published
Upcountry is a literary journal published by UMPI. It showcases a diverse range of creative works, including poetry, short stories, essays, and visual art, contributed by students, faculty, and writers from the broader community. The journal aims to celebrate and promote literary and artistic expression, providing a platform for emerging and established voices alike. Through its annual publication, Upcountry fosters a vibrant literary culture within UMPI and the surrounding region, highlighting the unique perspectives and talents of its contributors.
EXPECT an education tailored to your needs
EXPECT an education tailored to your needs
Be a Reporter
The University Times is the student-run newspaper at UMPI, providing a platform for students to engage in journalism and share news relevant to the campus community. The publication covers a wide range of topics, including university events, student life, academic achievements, sports, and issues of broader societal interest. As a learning resource, it offers students practical experience in writing, editing, and media production, while fostering a sense of community and keeping the university’s population informed and connected.
An Author Among Us
Our program is pleased to have a published author in our midst. Richard Lee Zuras has written two novels, The Bastard Year and The Honeymoon Corruption, and his latest book, Mining Your Past: A Creative Writing Professor’s Guide: Writing Stories, Poetry, & Song Lyrics was recently published by Belle Isle Books. His work exemplifies the high caliber of creative talent within UMPI, highlighting the institution’s support for and celebration of literary achievements.
Lend a Helping Hand
The university offers a variety of writing and communication courses designed to enhance students’ abilities in areas such as technical writing, public relations, and digital media. These courses often incorporate service-learning components, where students apply their classroom knowledge to real-world situations. Engaging in these community service projects allows UMPI students to gain practical experience while making a positive impact on the local community. Working closely with non-profit organizations, students learn to understand and address the unique communication needs of different audiences.
Help Others Write
As a tutor with UMPI’s Writing Center, you can provide comprehensive support to fellow writers through personalized assistance and guidance. The role involves helping students at various stages of the writing process, from brainstorming and outlining to drafting and revising their work. Tutors provide feedback on structure, coherence, grammar, and style, ensuring writing is clear, persuasive, and academically sound. By fostering a collaborative and supportive environment, the aim is to boost students’ confidence and skills, empowering them to become more effective and independent writers.
Faculty
Lea Knudsen Allen
- Location
- 208 South Hall
- Phone
- (207) 768-9521
- lea.allen@maine.edu
Deborah L Hodgkins
- Location
- 210 South Hall
- Phone
- (207) 768-9423
- deborah.hodgkins@maine.edu
Richard Zuras
- Location
- 317 South Hall
- Phone
- (207) 768-9403
- richard.zuras@maine.edu
EXPECT to Finish in Four
EXPECT to Finish in Four
English Program Offerings
What can you do with a Professional Communication Minor?
Next Step: Admissions
We’re so excited that you’re considering the University of Maine at Presque Isle! As a student at UMPI, we want your experience to be anything but ordinary! So what makes UMPI extraordinary? Our Learning Environment, Our Student Engagement and Our Location!
No matter what stage of life you are in, we can help you take the plunge into higher education and put you on YOUR PATH TO SUCCESS!