ICTQual AB Level 6 Diploma in Sports Nutrition (Dip Sports Nutrition)

The ICTQual AB Level 6 Diploma in Sports Nutrition (Dip Sports Nutrition) is an advanced qualification designed for learners seeking to deepen their expertise in nutrition science and its application within athletic performance, exercise physiology, and sports health management. This diploma equips learners with a comprehensive understanding of the relationship between diet, physical activity, and human performance, preparing them to meet the growing demand for qualified sports nutrition professionals worldwide.

Learners undertaking this programme will explore a wide range of specialist areas, including energy metabolism, hydration strategies, supplementation, recovery nutrition, and the role of dietary interventions in enhancing strength, endurance, and overall performance. By combining scientific theory with practical application, the course empowers learners to critically analyse nutritional needs across different sports disciplines and to design evidence-based strategies tailored to athletes, fitness professionals, and active populations.

The qualification is particularly relevant for those working in health, fitness, or sports-related fields who wish to expand their professional knowledge, support long-term career progression, and strengthen their expertise through structured Continuing Professional Development (CPD). With its emphasis on advanced learning, critical evaluation, and applied practice, the diploma fosters the professional competence and confidence required to excel in the fast-evolving field of sports nutrition.

Course overview

Level 6 Diploma in Sports Nutrition (Dip Sports Nutrition)

To enrol in ICTQual AB Level 6 Diploma in Sports Nutrition (Dip Sports Nutrition), learner must meet the following entry requirements:

  • Age Requirement: Learners must be at least 19 years old at the time of registration.
  • Educational Background: A recognised qualification at Level 5 or equivalent in nutrition, sports science, health sciences, biology, or a related discipline is required. Learners with alternative qualifications may also be considered if they can demonstrate relevant prior learning or professional experience.
  • Work Experience: While not compulsory, prior experience in sports, fitness, nutrition practice, or health-related sectors is highly beneficial. This ensures learners can engage effectively with the advanced scientific and applied content of the diploma.
  • English Proficiency: As the programme is delivered in English, learners must demonstrate adequate language skills to follow the course. Non-native speakers are expected to have proficiency equivalent to IELTS 6.0 or above, or evidence of prior education or professional work conducted in English.
  • Additional Requirement: Learners should have access to a reliable internet connection, computer or smart device, and relevant software to engage with course resources and assessments where applicable.
  • Centre Requirements: Centres offering this qualification must have qualified staff, appropriate resources, and effective systems in place to ensure high-quality delivery and learner success.

This qualification, the ICTQual AB Level 6 Diploma in Sports Nutrition (Dip Sports Nutrition), consists of 6 mandatory units.

  1. Advanced Principles of Sports and Exercise Nutrition
  2. Energy Metabolism and Nutrient Requirements in Athletic Performance
  3. Nutritional Strategies for Training, Recovery, and Competition
  4. Supplementation, Ergogenic Aids, and Performance Enhancement
  5. Research Methods and Evidence-Based Practice in Sports Nutrition
  6. Professional Practice, Ethics, and Continuing Development in Sports Nutrition

Learning Outcomes for the Study Units:

Advanced Principles of Sports and Exercise Nutrition

  • Explain the physiological and biochemical processes underpinning sports and exercise nutrition.
  • Analyse the role of macronutrients and micronutrients in supporting performance and recovery.
  • Evaluate the effects of training, energy balance, and hydration on human performance.
  • Apply advanced sports nutrition principles to different types of athletic activity.

Energy Metabolism and Nutrient Requirements in Athletic Performance

  • Describe the metabolic pathways that provide energy during exercise.
  • Assess nutrient requirements for athletes across endurance, strength, and mixed sports.
  • Critically evaluate the impact of carbohydrate, protein, and fat intake on performance.
  • Formulate personalised energy and nutrient plans for athletes based on activity and goals.

Nutritional Strategies for Training, Recovery, and Competition

  • Develop evidence-based nutrition strategies to support training and competitive performance.
  • Design recovery nutrition plans to optimise glycogen replenishment, repair, and adaptation.
  • Assess the impact of timing and distribution of nutrients on performance outcomes.
  • Adapt nutritional strategies for athletes competing under different environmental conditions.

Supplementation, Ergogenic Aids, and Performance Enhancement

  • Evaluate the safety, efficacy, and ethical considerations of supplements and ergogenic aids.
  • Identify potential risks, benefits, and regulatory issues linked to supplementation in sport.
  • Assess the role of commonly used supplements such as creatine, caffeine, and protein powders.
  • Apply critical analysis to determine when supplementation is appropriate within sports practice.

Research Methods and Evidence-Based Practice in Sports Nutrition

  • Design and conduct small-scale research projects relevant to sports nutrition.
  • Critically review academic literature and apply findings to practice.
  • Use appropriate statistical and qualitative methods to analyse nutrition-related data.
  • Present research findings clearly and ethically in line with academic standards.

Professional Practice, Ethics, and Continuing Development in Sports Nutrition

  • Demonstrate understanding of professional codes, ethical issues, and legal frameworks in sports nutrition.
  • Reflect on personal practice and identify areas for Continuing Professional Development (CPD).
  • Engage with current trends and innovations in sports nutrition at a global level.
  • Apply professional standards to ensure safe, effective, and ethical practice in sports nutrition.

The ICTQual AB Level 6 Diploma in Sports Nutrition provides learners with a strong platform to advance both academically and professionally within the fields of sports, health, and nutrition. By achieving this qualification, learners enhance their expertise in applied nutrition, expand their career opportunities, and strengthen their professional profile in a globally competitive industry. The diploma also supports learners in their Continuing Professional Development (CPD), enabling them to remain up to date with evolving practices in sports nutrition and exercise science.

Academic Progression

Learners may progress to:

  • Level 7 qualifications in Sports Nutrition, Exercise Physiology, or Health Sciences.
  • Postgraduate study in Performance Nutrition, Public Health, or Applied Sport and Exercise Science.
  • Research-based programmes focusing on advanced sports nutrition, physiology, or human performance.
  • Specialist CPD courses in elite athlete nutrition, applied dietetics, or sports performance management.

Professional Career Opportunities

This qualification opens up a variety of career pathways, including roles such as:

  • Sports Nutritionist supporting professional athletes, sports teams, or fitness clients.
  • Performance Nutrition Consultant advising on diet and supplementation strategies for training and competition.
  • Exercise and Fitness Specialist providing evidence-based nutritional guidance in gyms, fitness centres, and wellness settings.
  • Research Assistant or Academic Tutor in sports nutrition and related disciplines.
  • Health Promotion Practitioner working on community or population-level sports and wellness programmes.

Industry Demand and Global Relevance

The qualification prepares learners to respond to:

  • Growing global demand for specialists in performance nutrition and athlete health.
  • Expanding opportunities in the sports, fitness, and wellness industries.
  • Increased recognition of the role of nutrition in injury prevention, recovery, and performance optimisation.
  • International career prospects in professional sports clubs, health organisations, and private consultancy.

Continuing Professional Development (CPD)

Learners completing this diploma are encouraged to:

  • Engage with emerging research and scientific innovation in sports nutrition.
  • Maintain a commitment to lifelong learning through professional memberships and CPD programmes.
  • Network with sports and health professionals to enhance collaborative practice.
  • Pursue further certifications or workshops that deepen expertise in specialist areas.

FAQs

This course is designed for learners who want to specialise in the field of sports nutrition. It is particularly suited to fitness trainers, sports coaches, healthcare professionals, nutrition consultants, and those working in the health and wellness sector who wish to expand their expertise and enhance career opportunities.

Learners must be at least 19 years old and hold a Level 5 qualification or equivalent in nutrition, sports science, health sciences, biology, or a related subject. Prior experience in sports, fitness, or nutrition is recommended but not mandatory. Non-native English speakers should demonstrate proficiency equivalent to IELTS 6.0 or above.

ICTQual AB Level 6 Diploma in Sports Nutrition (Dip Sports Nutrition) is 60 Credits training program. As this Training program have mandatory assessment which will be conducted through Approved Training Centers.

ICTQual AB allows to offer Level 6 Diploma in Sports Nutrition (Dip Sports Nutrition) in various formats, including online, in-person, or a combination of both. Participants can choose the format that best fits their schedule and learning preferences. But final decision is made by ATC.

Yes, ICTQual AB Level 6 Diploma in Sports Nutrition (Dip Sports Nutrition) consist of 6 mandatory assessments . These assessments are designed to evaluate participants’ comprehension of course material and their capacity to apply concepts in practical situations. It is mandatory to pass assessments with a minimum score of 75%