The title, Distinguished Professor, is conferred by the University of Manitoba on academic staff members who have demonstrated outstanding distinction in research, scholarship, creative endeavours, professional service and teaching. Up to three people may receive this honour each year, and not more than 20 professors may hold the title at one time.

Distinguished Professors are appointed by the University's Board of Governors on the recommendation of a Distinguished Professor Selection Committee, chaired by the University's President and Vice-Chancellor. The title of Distinguished Professor Emeritus/Emerita is awarded to Distinguished Professors upon their retirement from the University.

The following academic staff members in the Faculty of Arts currently hold the title of Distinguished Professor. Date ( ) indicates the year of appointment:

Ellen Judd, Anthropology (2010)
Raymond P. Perry, Psychology (2009)
Dawne McCance, Religion (2007)
George Toles, English, Film, and Theatre (2007)
Julia Kwong, Sociology (2006)
Garry Martin, Psychology (2006)
Gerald Friesen, History (2002)

John Nichols, Linguistics & Native Studies (1998)
Vaclav Smil, Geography (1998)
Timothy Anna, History (1997)
Paul Fortier, French and Spanish (1993)
Evelyn J. Hinz, English (1993)
H. Christoph Wolfart, Linguistics (1993)
Klaus Klostermaier, Religion (1986)
Robert Kroetsch, English (1985)
Clarence Barber, Economics (1982)