This study has the purpose to investigate the characteristics and the role of the athletics-related sports disciplines in four Physical Education undergraduate courses. In order to reach the goal, it was conducted as a qualitative-type research. Data was collected through documental analysis on disciplines briefings and programs, and also from classes observations and interviews with professors and students from the institutions (two State-boarded and two private) responsible for the courses. Through these analyses it was perceived that those disciplines have surpassed some characteristics of the traditional undergraduate program, which is based on sports. Regarding the role of the disciplines, it was noted that professors consider them as responsible for providing students with basic conditions, so they could benefit from sports as instrumental subjects for their professional intervention.
Athletics; Professional Education; Undergraduate Program
