From Tartan to Three Lions Sports, Politics, and Culture in Edingburgh and London

Join Washburn University students and faculty—Dr. Linsey Moddelmog (Political Science) and Karen Garrison (Kinesiology)—for an unforgettable study abroad experience from May 21 to May 31, 2026.

As part of the spring course KN 315/PO 372, this cross-disciplinary program combines classroom learning with on-the-ground exploration in Edinburgh, Scotland and London, England. Together, we’ll examine the political history and development of sport in the UK—a nation that has profoundly shaped both global politics and athletics. The UK is birthplace of parliamentary democracy and the unification of Scotland and England is related to national identity and continually faces many challenges. Sport serves as a central lens through which we examine society. The UK is the birthplace of many globally beloved games—football, rugby, cricket, tennis, golf, and the Highland Games, among others. Students will not only learn the rules and cultural significance of these sports but also investigate their role in shaping national and community identities.

Through site visits, discussions, and hands-on experiences, we’ll explore how sports intersect with public policy, community development, and national pride—examining topics such as government support for sporting institutions, the impact of professional teams, and the politics of hosting international events like the Olympics.

Tentative Itinerary for Summer Study Abroad

This spring upper division course is open to all majors and is cross-listed in Political Science and Kinesiology. Students can take it for credits to put towards their degree in either of those two majors, or for credits outside their major.

Advising Reminder: Students with majors in the College of Arts and Sciences (CAS) need at least 45 hours of upper division credit, 80 credit hours outside their major, and 99 credit hours in CAS, and a total of 120 credits to graduate.

Estimated Cost for Study Abroad: $3,100----- Students Eligible for WTE Scholarship $1,000

If you are interested in joining this study abroad, please email: karen.garrison@washburn.edu or linsey.moddelmog@washburn.edu

Limited to 25 participants

This study abroad is also open to faculty, staff, and community members, if not all of the seats are filled by students.

Commitment Deadline November 12, 2025

Washburn students attend Rugby Match summer 2024
Left: Washburn students in English pub summer 2025; Right: Karen Garrison and Linsey Moddelmog Study Abroad Class Instructors

Credits:

Created with images by evenfh - "Edinburgh skyline, Scotland" • Bargais - "Happy fan screaming supporting England team at soccer." • Nadiya - "Participants in traditional kilts competing in a strength event with a log at a Scottish Highland games festival" • Sergii Figurnyi - "Big Ben, Westminster Bridge, red bus in London" • bychykhin - "STUDY ABROAD - message on blue background with airplane model.,Learning a language and studying abroad"