Comparative Criminal Justice Systems: the U.K. & U.S.

• Explore the history and operations of the Metropolitan Police Service, one of the world’s oldest police forces, with special educational access to Scotland Yard.
• Visit the Tower of London to gain insight into its role as a prison and place of execution, illustrating historical methods of law enforcement and punishment.
• Visit the Royal Courts of Justice to understand the judicial process and observe court proceedings in the High Court and Court of Appeal.
• Examine historical records, including court documents and criminal case files, at the National Archives to see firsthand the evolution of legal practices.
• Take part in a special tour of New Scotland Yard to better understand modern policing techniques and the history of the Metropolitan Police Service.
• Tour the Houses of Parliament to reveal the legislative process and its role in shaping legal frameworks, highlighting historic legal debates and reforms.
• Visit the London Dungeon to investigate crime and punishment through interactive exhibits.

The University of Kansas is proud to offer a unique faculty-led study abroad program designed to immerse students in the rich history of British policing and its profound influence on the criminal justice system in the United States. This program, set against the backdrop of iconic London landmarks, promises a comprehensive understanding of the evolution of law enforcement and judicial practices. Participants will explore key sites, engage in insightful discussions, and witness firsthand the legacy of British legal traditions. This faculty-led study abroad program not only offers an immersive educational experience but also fosters a deep understanding of the historical roots of policing and criminal justice. By exploring these iconic sites, students will gain a comprehensive perspective on the development of legal systems and their enduring influence on contemporary practices in the United States.

The historic city of London is a global center for commerce, the arts, fashion, media, education, research and professional services and is one of the world’s leading financial centers.  Diverse and rich in culture, over 300 languages are spoken within the Greater London area.  The extensive London Underground is recognized as the best subway in the world, making travel easy and efficient to famous landmarks such as Buckingham Palace, Piccadilly Circus, Westminster Abbey, West End theaters, Tower of London, Greenwich and the Prime Meridian and numerous other museums, theatres, and sporting events.  

All students on this program will enroll in CRIM 395 – Special Topics: Study Abroad, London, England for three credit hours. 

Through participation in this program, students can expect to:

1. Examine the history and evolution of British policing including the development of modern law enforcement practices and their foundational influence on policing systems in the United States.

2. Compare the British judicial system's structure and operations with those of the U.S. legal system, gaining an understanding of courtroom procedures, trial processes, and appellate practices.

3. Analyze historical records and documents to understand the evolution of legal and criminal justice practices.

4. Interpret the legislative process and its impact on the development of legal frameworks, learning how historic legal debates and reforms in the UK have shaped both British and American legal systems.

Students will be housed in double or triple occupancy rooms in central London.  Breakfast daily and several group lunches or dinners will be provided.

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.  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.

• Sexual and Gender Diversity
• Students of Color Abroad
• Visible and Invisible Disabilities
• Religious, Spiritual, and Non-Religious Students
• Adult Learners and Non-Traditional Students
• First Generation Students 
• Students with Children
• Students with Financial Need
• Veterans, Active Duty, and ROTC

Open to undergraduate and graduate students from any accredited U.S. college or university. Minimum 2.5 GPA required (exceptions considered after submission of a petition).

Program Cost for Comparative Criminal Justice: the U.K. and U.S.