The university opened in 1930 as the National Institute of Physical Education of Ukraine in Kharkiv.

Between 1930-1944 was renamed to the National Institute of Physical Education of Ukraine; in 1979-1989 – Sport Faculty of Kyiv State Institute of Physical Culture; 1989-2001 – Kharkiv State University of Physical Culture.

The Academy consists of 4 colleges, 5 faculties, 18 departments, the Preparatory Centre for foreign students, the School of Outstanding Sportsmanship, a scientific and research centre, the Centre of Computer technologies and information support of the process of physical education and sports.

The Academy also provides post graduate courses for its students.

This Ukrainian university, college or other education institution article is a stub.