Increasing participation in sport and physical activity in older adults

Summary

Physical activity is associated with numerous health benefits, yet many older adults do not achieve recommended levels of activity. As populations age, there is a need for approaches that encourage and support participation in sport and physical activity in later life. Physical literacy, which encompasses motivation, confidence, physical competence, knowledge and understanding, has emerged as a potentially important factor in supporting lifelong engagement in physical activity.

While physical literacy has been widely studied in children and young people, considerably less attention has been given to older adults. Limited evidence exists regarding how physical literacy influences participation in sport and physical activity in later life, how it can be effectively supported, and how the perspectives of older adults, coaches and community stakeholders can inform practice.

This PhD aims to investigate factors influencing participation in sport and physical activity among older adults, with a particular focus on the role of physical literacy, and to co-develop evidence-informed resources to support active and healthy ageing.

Objectives are to:
1. Identify factors associated with participation in sport and physical activity among older adults, including physical literacy, demographic characteristics, and physical and mental health outcomes.
2. Explore perceptions and experiences of physical literacy among older adults, coaches and relevant stakeholders, and identify opportunities to support participation in sport and physical activity in later life.
3. Work with older adults, coaches and other relevant stakeholders to co-develop practical, evidence-informed guidance for sport coaches to support participation in sport and physical activity in later life and explore the feasibility and acceptability of this guidance.

This PhD project would suit a graduate from Sport and Exercise Sciences, Public Health, Psychology, or a related area. Applicants should have some experience of conducting qualitative research. The ability to communicate clearly and effectively through oral and written means is also desirable.

Essential criteria

Applicants should hold, or expect to obtain, a First or Upper Second Class Honours Degree in a subject relevant to the proposed area of study.

We may also consider applications from those who hold equivalent qualifications, for example, a Lower Second Class Honours Degree plus a Master’s Degree with Distinction.

In exceptional circumstances, the University may consider a portfolio of evidence from applicants who have appropriate professional experience which is equivalent to the learning outcomes of an Honours degree in lieu of academic qualifications.

• Sound understanding of subject area as evidenced by a comprehensive research proposal detailing background, research questions, aims and methodology
• A comprehensive and articulate personal statement demonstrating interest in the subject area
• Experience using research methods or other approaches relevant to the subject domain

Desirable Criteria

If the University receives a large number of applicants for the project, the following desirable criteria may be applied to shortlist applicants for interview.

• Applicants should hold, or expect to hold a First Class Honours Degree in a relevant subject area
• Applicants should hold, or expect to hold a relevant Masters Degree at a level equivalent to commendation or distinction at Ulster
• Work experience relevant to the proposed project
• Track record of peer reviewed publications

Equal Opportunities

The University is an equal opportunities employer and welcomes applicants from all sections of the community, particularly from those with disabilities.

Appointment will be made on merit.

Funding and eligibility

This project is funded by:

• Department for the Economy (DfE)
• Vice Chancellor's Research Scholarship (VCRS)

PhD scholarships are available for this project to all applicants worldwide, regardless of residency or domicile, and will cover:

• Tuition fees.
• A maintenance allowance of approximately £22,000 (exact rate is to be confirmed) per annum for three years, subject to satisfactory academic performance.
• A Research Training Support Grant (RTSG) of approximately £900 per annum.

Applicants who already hold a doctoral degree or who have been registered on a programme of research leading to the award of a doctoral degree on a full-time basis for more than one year, or part-time equivalent, funded from any source, including self-financing students, are NOT eligible to apply for an award.

Students in full-time employment are not eligible for an award.

Part-time PhD scholarships may be available at a 0.5 pro rata rate of the full-time scholarship, which would require a six-year registration period.

Due consideration should be given to financing your studies.

The University will award a successful candidate one of the following scholarships for the project, depending on the funding available at the time an admissions offer is made:

1. Department for the Economy (DfE) PhD Scholarships
2. Vice Chancellor’s Research Scholarships (VCRS)

Please note that the Terms and Conditions for scholarships are subject to change for 2027/28.