ICTQual AB Level 3 Certificate in Clinical Nutrition (Cert CN)
The ICTQual AB Level 3 Certificate in Clinical Nutrition (Cert CN) is a specialised qualification designed to provide learners with comprehensive knowledge and practical skills in the field of nutrition and its impact on human health. This course is ideal for individuals seeking to understand the role of diet, nutrients, and lifestyle in preventing and managing health conditions, equipping them to support patients and clients in clinical, community, and healthcare settings.
Learners will explore the principles of clinical nutrition, including the physiological and biochemical processes of digestion, absorption, and metabolism. The programme covers essential topics such as dietary requirements, nutritional assessment, the management of common medical conditions through diet, and the development of personalised nutrition plans. Emphasis is placed on evidence-based practice, patient-centred care, and effective communication to ensure learners are prepared to provide professional guidance and support in nutritional health.
The ICTQual AB Level 3 Certificate in Clinical Nutrition is suitable for healthcare professionals, clinical support staff, dietetic assistants, and individuals working in medical, wellness, or allied health environments who wish to specialise in clinical nutrition. Through a combination of theoretical knowledge and practical applications, learners develop the skills to assess dietary needs, implement nutrition interventions, and work collaboratively with healthcare teams to enhance patient health outcomes.
Upon completion, learners will be equipped to understand the principles of nutrition, recognise the role of diet in disease prevention and management, and provide informed advice to individuals in a variety of healthcare settings. This qualification also serves as a foundation for further academic study or career progression in nutrition, dietetics, healthcare, and allied health professions, helping learners build a specialised career in clinical nutrition while making a meaningful impact on health and wellbeing.
Level 3 Certificate in Clinical Nutrition (Cert CN)
To enrol in ICTQual AB Level 3 Certificate in Clinical Nutrition (Cert CN), learner must meet the following entry requirements:
This qualification, the ICTQual AB Level 3 Certificate in Clinical Nutrition (Cert CN), consists of 6 mandatory units.
- Introduction to Clinical Nutrition and Healthy Eating
- Anatomy and Physiology Related to Nutrition
- Nutritional Assessment and Dietary Planning
- Clinical Nutrition for Common Health Conditions
- Nutritional Interventions, Supplements, and Lifestyle Management
- Communication, Ethics, and Professional Practice in Clinical Nutrition
Learning Outcomes for the Study Units:
1. Introduction to Clinical Nutrition and Healthy Eating
- Understand the principles of clinical nutrition and its role in health and disease prevention.
- Define key concepts, terminology, and dietary guidelines related to healthy eating.
- Recognise the impact of nutrition on overall wellbeing and patient outcomes.
2. Anatomy and Physiology Related to Nutrition
- Describe the structure and function of the digestive system and associated organs.
- Explain physiological processes involved in digestion, absorption, and metabolism of nutrients.
- Understand how anatomy and physiology relate to nutritional requirements and health.
3. Nutritional Assessment and Dietary Planning
- Conduct basic nutritional assessments to evaluate dietary needs and deficiencies.
- Develop personalised diet plans based on individual health status, age, and lifestyle.
- Understand the importance of monitoring and reviewing dietary interventions for effectiveness.
4. Clinical Nutrition for Common Health Conditions
- Identify nutritional strategies for managing common health conditions, including diabetes, cardiovascular disease, and obesity.
- Understand the role of diet in disease prevention and management.
- Apply evidence-based nutrition principles to support patient care in clinical settings.
5. Nutritional Interventions, Supplements, and Lifestyle Management
- Understand the use of nutritional supplements, functional foods, and dietary modifications.
- Explain strategies for promoting healthy lifestyle changes alongside nutritional interventions.
- Recognise the importance of personalised approaches to achieve optimal patient outcomes.
6. Communication, Ethics, and Professional Practice in Clinical Nutrition
- Demonstrate effective communication skills with patients, families, and healthcare teams.
- Understand ethical, legal, and professional responsibilities in clinical nutrition.
- Apply principles of empathy, confidentiality, and patient-centred care in nutritional practice.
The ICTQual AB Level 3 Certificate in Clinical Nutrition (Cert CN) equips learners with essential knowledge and practical skills in nutrition, dietary management, and patient support. This qualification provides a strong foundation for further academic study or career development, enabling learners to promote health and wellbeing and support patients with dietary and lifestyle interventions in clinical, community, and healthcare settings.
Academic Progression
- Progress to higher-level qualifications such as:
- ICTQual AB Level 4 Diploma in Clinical Nutrition or Dietetics
- Diplomas in Healthcare, Nutrition Science, or Allied Health Professions
- Pathway to advanced studies in:
- Dietetics and Nutritional Therapy
- Public Health and Health Promotion
- Nursing with a focus on nutrition and metabolic care
Career Opportunities
- Entry-level roles in healthcare, wellness, and support services, including:
- Clinical Support Worker specialising in nutrition and dietary care
- Healthcare Assistant or Dietetic Assistant in hospitals and clinics
- Community Health Worker advising on diet and lifestyle interventions
- Support roles in wellness centres, rehabilitation facilities, and care homes
Skills Development
- Builds subject-specific knowledge in clinical nutrition and patient care
- Enhances skills in dietary assessment, nutrition planning, and patient support
- Strengthens communication, empathy, and professional practice in healthcare settings
- Develops awareness of ethical, legal, and regulatory responsibilities in nutritional care