Michael Chapman, Senior Professor of English Studies, is the University of  KwaZulu-Natal’s first A-rated researcher in the arts and social sciences.

Other achievements

• 1984. National Sanlam Prize for South African Poetry: A Modern Perspective
• 1996. University of Natal Book Prize for Southern African Literatures
• 1997. Bill Venter Prize -- South Africa's premier award for academic writing -- for Southern African Literatures
• University of KwaZulu-Natal Book Prize for Art Talk, Politics Talk
• Research Fellow of the University
• National Research Foundation A-rated scientist, 2003-2007; retained 2008-2012
• English Academy of Southern Africa Middle for Service to English Studies