Law in Istanbul, Turkey


Image of Istanbul, Turkey
Spend three weeks studying law at a premier university in the heart of Istanbul.
Location: Istanbul, Turkey
Language of Instruction: English
Term: Summer
Academic Disciplines: LawGraduate Courses
Program Type: Faculty-led
Open to non-KU Students: No
Fulfills KU Core 4.2: No
Fulfills KU Core 5: No

  • Earn 3 KU law credits while studying at one of Turkey's best universities, Bahçeşehir University.
  • Explore the modern metropolis of Istanbul, a city where Europe and the Middle East meet.
  • Courses taught in English; no foreign language experience required.

During this 3 week program, students have the opportunity to study law at one of Istanbul's premier universities. Courses are taught by both Bahçeşehir University School of Law and KU faculty. In addition to taking courses at a Turkish university, students will have ample time to explore the fascinating city of Istanbul.

For more information about the program, including courses, faculty, and housing, please visit the KU School of Law website

The University of Bahçeşehir in Istanbul, Turkey, is a foundation university established in 1998. Bahçeşehir has quickly established itself as a progressive, dynamic educational institution. The school's modern facilities are located on the European side of the Bosphorus coast in the heart of Istanbul. With a population in excess of 10 million, Istanbul is the largest city in Turkey. It is the only city in the world located on two continents, Europe and Asia. Its rich history dates back some 5,000 years. Students will enjoy a unique learning experience in this vibrant, cosmopolitan city.



The program contact for the Law in Istanbul Study Abroad Program is Feridun Yenisey, a professor of law at the University of Bahçeşehir. Professor Yenisey is the country's foremost expert on international and comparative criminal law.

There are no prerequisites for any of the courses. All classes are taught in English and no Turkish language skills are necessary for participation in the program.

Students will earn three credit hours granted by the University of Kansas School of Law upon completion of the program.Courses offered each summer vary based on faculty director expertise but have included Criminal Procedure in Europe (1 credit), Comparative Family Law (1 credit), and Comparative Dispute Resolution (1 credit).  Approximately 20 law students from Turkey and other countries also attend courses as guest auditors.

Grades are determined based on a written final examination in each course in accordance with KU Law grading procedures. Available grades are A (4.0), A- (3.7), B+ (3.3), B (3.0), B- (2.7), C+ (2.3), C (2.0), C- (1.7), D+ (1.3), D (1.0), D- (.7) and F (0).

Students will stay in double or triple rooms at the Republika Academic Aparts, a modern short-term lodging facility designed specifically for students.​ Amenities include a study room, common kitchen area where students have the option to prepare their own meals, laundry facilities, a cafe, and exercise facilities. The accommodations are located within walking distance of Bahcesehir University, but daily shuttle service is provided to students on the program.

The cost of housing is included in the cost of the program.

Students are responsible for their own transportation to and from Turkey. Airlines provide a variety of reduced fare plans and early booking can result in substantial savings. As summer flights tend to fill quickly, early travel arrangements should be made. Students, however, should not book travel until they receive an acceptance package and submit the financial contract.

SAGE is dedicated to creating international engagement opportunities that meet the needs of all our students and providing resources to support you through the process of studying abroad. Study abroad is achievable for students of all identities including our BIPOC and LGBTQIA+ students, students with disabilities, and students with religious/non-religious viewpoints. Before selecting a program, consider how your identities may impact your experience abroad in unique ways and talk with your Program Coordinator about any program-specific concerns. Students with documented disabilities should discuss any accommodation needs with their Program Coordinator early in the planning process.

Check our Identity Abroad page and resources listed below for information specific to you and other students who may be on your program.

Open to KU students who have completed the first-year curriculum in good standing.

For more information, please contact Stephen Mazza, dean and professor of law, at smazza@ku.edu.