UW in Türkiye: Crossroads of Civilizations: May 17–June 4, 2026
Led by Professor Karl Shoemaker (History & Law)
A new Study Abroad Program in Istanbul, Türkiye
Students may register under
History 200: Historical Studies or INTL ST 503: Study Abroad Topics in Culture in the Age of Globalization
Scholarship Opportunities
Participants on this program for Summer 2026 will be provided with a guaranteed IAP Boost scholarship of $1000.
Six additional $2000 scholarships are also available thanks to the generosity of the Karpat Center for Turkish Studies. Students who meet the eligibility requirements will automatically be considered for the scholarship. Students who receive those additional scholarships will be notified at the same time as they receive acceptance to the program.
Click here https://studyabroad.wisc.edu/program/?programId=330471 to explore program details and ALL funding options!
International Academic Programs (IAP) has officially launched a new Study Abroad program in Istanbul, Türkiye — UW in Türkiye: Crossroads of Civilizations. Originating from a Karpat Center proposal and made possible through IAP’s leadership, vision, and dedicated work, this program will offer students a remarkable opportunity to immerse themselves in the history, culture, and vibrant life of Istanbul.
This initiative marks a significant milestone—not only for the Karpat Center and Turkish Studies at UW–Madison, but also for the university’s broader mission to expand global learning opportunities and strengthen academic ties with Türkiye.
Led by Professor Karl Shoemaker (History & Law), the program is scheduled to run May 17–June 4, 2026, pending sufficient enrollment. Students may register under History 200: Historical Studies or INTL ST 503: Study Abroad Topics in Culture in the Age of Globalization, making the program accessible to a wide range of academic interests.
COURSE INFORMATION:
UW in Türkiye: Crossroads of Civilizations: May 17–June 4, 2026
Istanbul, Türkiye
Professor Karl Shoemaker (History & Law)
This Study Abroad program in Istanbul offers a unique opportunity to immerse yourself in the rich cultural, historical, and social tapestry of one of the world’s most iconic cities. You will be introduced to the diverse cultures, histories, and peoples who have shaped Istanbul and the surrounding region over millennia. The program emphasizes Istanbul’s status as a global hub for commerce, religion, and culture, exploring how the city has evolved as a crossroads of civilizations. The course integrates these themes across a variety of subjects, appealing to students with interests in Business, Political Science, International Studies, History, Classical and Ancient Near Eastern Studies, History of Islamic Art, Architecture and Museums, and Religious Studies. By engaging with the city’s vibrant past and present, students will gain a deeper understanding of its role on the world stage and the interconnectedness of global cultures.
Learning Objectives
We have overall Goals and Expectations for Study Abroad Participants, covering the personal, academic and professional aspects of study abroad. Additionally on this program, you can:
- Understand the major historical events that led to the formation of modern Turkey.
- Analyze and articulate arguments about historical and cultural change in Turkey over time.
- Find, interpret, and utilize resources relevant to law and society.
- Recognize how Turkey impacts and is impacted by current global politics.
- Construct clear and persuasive arguments about historical, social and cultural change in Turkey.
Diversity & Inclusion
We are committed to providing quality study abroad and domestic study away programs for every UW-Madison student. We work strategically to identify, address, and remove barriers that may prevent participation and to provide a welcoming and inclusive environment for students. Our staff actively engages with students, faculty, and staff from diverse backgrounds and prioritizes the continuous development of our knowledge and cultural competence. We also recognize the importance of increasing access to study abroad for historically underrepresented student populations. We are committed to diversity and inclusion so that every student can engage with and understand their identity through a new lens and continue to develop and make progress on their personal, professional, and academic goals.
Sustainability
We recognize that the future of study abroad, domestic study away, and international internship programming requires a Commitment to Sustainability. We are devoted to examining, developing, and improving sustainability in all our endeavors, aligning with campus priorities and following through with UW-Madison’s climate action and Resilience Commitment. Join our efforts and learn more about how to study abroad sustainably.
Request Information
Join our email list to receive program updates-including application notices, scholarship information, and more!
Thank you all for helping to share this exciting new UW opportunity in Türkiye!
https://wisc.academicworks.com/?page=2&term=summer&utf8=%E2%9C%93
https://my.studyabroad.wisc.edu/ScholarshipChart
Our Opportunities – Wisconsin Scholarship Hub (WiSH)
Study Abroad — International Academic Programs (IAP)
International Academic Programs (IAP), the main study abroad office on campus, collaborates with academic units across campus to offer safe, accessible, and high-quality study abroad and domestic study away programs that foster students’ academic, personal, and professional growth.
The Karpat Center’s interest in Study Abroad in Turkey
Karpat Center is interested in supporting faculty who wish to work with International Academic Programs (IAP) to develop a Study Abroad Program in Istanbul.
Faculty Opportunities
UW-Madison Faculty are encouraged to connect with IAP on developing new study abroad program ideas in Turkey, including short-term faculty-led programs. The link for details: https://studyabroad.wisc.edu/faculty-advisors/developing-a-new-program/
Contact balgamis@wisc.edu and matthew.geisler@wisc.edu for further details.
Student Opportunities
UW-Madison Students are encouraged to explore opportunities to study abroad in Turkey and to study the Turkish language abroad.
Study Abroad Programs in Turkey
Bogazici University Exchange – Experience the rich history and culture of Istanbul while studying at the renowned Bogazici University, an academic home to some of the best students in the country. Students have the option of enrolling in courses in any of Bogazici University’s four faculties: Arts and Sciences, Engineering, Economics, and Administrative Sciences and Education. All courses are taught in English. Students can also enroll in Turkish language and culture courses. The link for details: https://studyabroad.wisc.edu/program/?programId=311
Applications are open for Summer, Fall, and the Year.
Turkish Language Study Abroad Programs
Turkish Flagship Language Initiative Program – A federal scholarship funded program to Study Turkish in Azerbaijan. Contact the TURFLI office in Madison with questions at: +1-608-265-9582 or turfli@lpo.wisc.edu