The Cytology in the courses of Physical Education Bachelors: evidence from the South and Southeast Regions

Abstract

This study investigated the inclusion of Cytology in Physical Education Bachelor’s degree programs at public institutions in the South and Southeast regions of Brazil. The pedagogical projects of courses from 40 institutions were evaluated, identifying the presence of subjects dedicated to cell studies and their integration with professional training. The results revealed that only 46.5% of the analyzed programs included disciplines related to Cytology, often linked to Histology and Embryology, with few directly connecting these contents to the professional practice of Physical Education. Despite its relevance for understanding cellular processes that impact physical performance, the detailed study of cells remains underrepresented in the curricula. Additionally, the course syllabi demonstrated significant variations in thematic coverage and bibliographic updates, highlighting disparities in the approach to the content. This panorama underscores the need for a curricular review that prioritizes the inclusion of cytological knowledge in a more integrated and applied manner, fostering the training of professionals capable of meeting the contemporary demands of the field.