Located in the most urbanized part of Lahore amidst luxurious foliage, the Institute of English Studies at the University of the Punjab serves as a tranquil haven for academic and creative endeavors. The need for a Department of English was felt far back in 1932 on the occasion of the Golden Jubilee of the University of the Punjab. Two British Professors: Dr. Oliver Elton and Dr. Daniel Jones visited Lahore with a specific purpose of creating interest in English Language and Literature. The University of the Punjab had the tradition of coordinating teaching resources available in different colleges of Punjab where English was being taught as a compulsory subject. In 1947, on the inception of a new nation, the state envisioned to establish teaching departments in the University to impart higher education.

The Department of English Language and Literature was founded in 1962. Prof. Siraj-Ud-Din was the founder and first head of the Department. Since then, the Department has upheld a long-standing commitment to academic excellence. The Department has always staffed academics with strong educational background and research profiles. In 2021, the Department was restructured and the status was raised to the Institute of English Studies. Professor Dr. Shamaila Dodhy was the first Director of the Institute.

Currently, the Institute is offering Literature in English and translations in English from around the world. The canvas stretches from Classical Studies to Post-human genre, Victorian to Post-modern, and distinguished British and American writings to South-Asian Literature. Also, Literature produced in native languages is introduced through notable translations.  The Institute transforms the perception of budding scholars and motivates them to develop their own points of view.

National and International students are welcome to join creative endeavors and scholarly explorations being offered through creative-writing workshops and conferences. The teaching methods include combination of close and distant readings, seminars, and simulations supplemented by dramatic enactments and poetry reading competitions. Institute of English Studies is currently offering BS, MPhil and PhD programmes. The graduates of this department serve the nation in different capacities. Some are serving in bureaucracy, print and electronic industry, IT companies, and educational institutions.

Prof. Dr. Shamaila Dodhy is the Director of Institute of English Studies.