Palacký University Olomouc is one of the most important and historically oldest universities in Central Europe. It was founded in 1573 as a Jesuit university and is today the second oldest university in the Czech Republic. Its establishment is linked to Emperor Maximilian II, who granted university privileges to the Olomouc college. In its early years, the university primarily focused on philosophy and theology, gradually gaining a strong position within the European educational space, with influence extending across Central Europe and as far as Scandinavia. Throughout its history, the university has experienced several challenging periods, such as during the Thirty Years’ War, when its activities were significantly limited; however, after 1621 it was reestablished and continued to develop.
Today, Palacký University represents a modern institution of higher education and research, offering a wide range of study programs. The university consists of eight faculties and has more than 20,000 students, making it one of the largest universities in the Czech Republic. The quality of teaching is closely linked with scientific research activities covering a broad spectrum of disciplines, from humanities and social sciences to medicine and natural sciences. Interest in studying at the university remains consistently high, with tens of thousands of applications submitted each year, confirming its strong position both nationally and internationally.
An important aspect of the university’s current development is its strong internationalization. Palacký University hosts thousands of international students—approximately 4,500 from more than 100 countries worldwide—and their number has been steadily increasing. The university actively supports the mobility of students and academic staff, particularly through programs such as Erasmus+, enabling hundreds of students each year to study abroad. At the same time, it develops partnerships with universities around the world, participates in international projects, and is a member of prestigious networks, including the European university alliance Aurora.
Thanks to its combination of long-standing tradition, high-quality education, and a strong international dimension, Palacký University Olomouc is a respected institution that significantly contributes to the development of education, research, and international cooperation.
Faculty of Physical Culture, Palacký University Olomouc is one of the key components of Palacký University Olomouc, with a strong tradition in the field of physical education, sport sciences, and healthy lifestyle promotion. Established in 1991, the faculty builds on earlier academic activities in physical education in Olomouc and has gradually developed into a respected center for education, research, and innovation in movement sciences. From its beginnings, the faculty has emphasized not only performance-oriented sport but also health-oriented physical activity and inclusive approaches.
Today, the faculty offers a wide range of study programs at bachelor’s, master’s, and doctoral levels, covering areas such as physical education teaching, sport sciences, physiotherapy, and applied physical activities. It educates several thousand students and plays an important role in preparing professionals for education, healthcare, and sport sectors. Research activities are closely linked to teaching and focus on topics such as kinanthropology, biomechanics, health promotion, and adapted physical activity.
A distinctive part of the faculty is the Department of Adapted Physical Activity, which specializes in physical activity for individuals with special needs. The department is internationally recognized for its work in inclusive physical education, adapted sports, and support for people with disabilities. It actively participates in international research projects, collaborates with universities and organizations worldwide, and contributes to the development of inclusive policies and practices. Through strong international partnerships and involvement in programs such as Erasmus+, both the faculty and the department maintain a high level of global engagement and academic exchange.