Professionalization of Physical Education and Sports in Brazil: Higher Education Evolution

Abstract The education of sports coaches is transforming globally, with European nations recognizing its importance and promoting professionalization through European Commission initiatives. More than two decades ago, Brazil officially recognized sports coaches as a profession and as one of the activities for a Bachelor of Physical Education . This development sparked a broader discourse regarding the professionalization of individuals within this field. This study analyzes the state of Physical Education within Brazilian higher education following this formal recognition. This study employs a secondary analysis of governmental summary reports from 2004 to 2019. The Physical Education program currently ranks in the top ten undergraduate courses, with an enrollment of 239,008 students. 2019 Bachelor’s degree programs in Physical Education increased to 825, compared to 553 programs in 2017. Throughout the analyzed period, there has been a notable increase in PE teacher licenses and bachelor’s degree offerings in Physical Education, especially within the private sector. Throughout the analyzed timeframe, there was a significant rise in the availability of Physical Education teachers and bachelor’s undergraduate courses, particularly within the private sector. This trend indicates a growing emphasis on physical education curricula and the preparation of qualified professionals in this field. Furthermore, there has been a marked diversification in the demographics of enrolled students, encompassing a wider range of ages and ethnic backgrounds, alongside a growing number of low-income applicants. The statistics from Brazil may provide insights into coach professionalization; however, they should not be regarded as a standard for international benchmarking.