International experience in the regulation of physical education as a mandatory component of higher education curricula

This article examines international approaches to regulating physical education as a mandatory component of higher education programs. The study focuses on selected countries: China, Vietnam, Kazakhstan, the United States, India, and the European Union. In China, Vietnam, and Kazakhstan, physical education is legally required in undergraduate programs, with specified hours, assessment procedures, and monitoring mechanisms. In the United States and India, a hybrid model exists, combining government recommendations with institutional autonomy, allowing universities to adapt programs according to student categories and academic specializations. In EU countries, physical education is largely elective or partially mandatory, with implementation determined by institutional policies. The study identifies key differences in legal frameworks, centralization, and approaches to integrating physical activity into higher education curricula. Findings highlight the diversity of regulatory models and emphasize the relevance of international experience for enhancing physical education in Ukraine. This research provides insights for policymakers and higher education institutions seeking to strengthen student health, promote physical activity, and develop comprehensive educational programs through structured physical education courses.