The program offers a full range of American, British, and world literature classes. Ample attention is also given to modern and contemporary literature and living writers. The English Program faculty actively publish books, essays, stories, poems, and articles.

Mentor scholarships allow students to work one-on-one with faculty on writing, teaching, and research projects. Many nationally known writers visit SMSU for readings and events, such as the Marshall Festival. English majors have their own lounge, the Holm & Dacey Lounge, which houses a lending library of books and literary magazines. All English majors are encouraged to join the English Club. Campus residents may opt to live in the Fine Arts Community, the home for all English, Speech, Theatre, and Art majors.