ICTQual AB Level 6 Diploma in Maternal and Child Nutrition (Dip Maternal and Child Nutrition)
The ICTQual AB Level 6 Diploma in Maternal and Child Nutrition (Dip Maternal and Child Nutrition) is an advanced qualification designed for learners seeking specialised knowledge in nutrition across preconception, pregnancy, lactation, and childhood. With maternal and child health being a global priority, professionals equipped with evidence-based expertise in this area play a critical role in promoting optimal growth, development, and long-term wellbeing.
Learners gain comprehensive knowledge of maternal and child nutritional requirements, the impact of diet on fetal and infant development, and strategies to prevent malnutrition and diet-related health conditions. The programme explores physiological, metabolic, and developmental considerations across different stages of life, emphasising the importance of personalised and population-based nutrition interventions.
The diploma also covers assessment, monitoring, and planning of dietary interventions, enabling learners to design evidence-based nutrition programmes for mothers, infants, and children in clinical, community, and public health settings. Emphasis is placed on research, critical appraisal of scientific literature, and application of evidence-based practice to support effective decision-making in maternal and child nutrition.
Ideal for nutritionists, dietitians, healthcare professionals, and those aiming to specialise in maternal and child health, this qualification supports Continuing Professional Development (CPD), helping learners enhance their career prospects and professional expertise.
By completing the ICTQual AB Level 6 Diploma in Maternal and Child Nutrition, learners will be equipped to apply advanced nutritional principles to improve maternal and child health outcomes, influence public health initiatives, and contribute to research and policy development. This prepares professionals to make a meaningful impact in healthcare, community nutrition, and maternal and child wellbeing on both national and international levels.
Level 6 Diploma in Maternal and Child Nutrition (Dip Maternal and Child Nutrition)
To enrol in ICTQual AB Level 6 Diploma in Maternal and Child Nutrition (Dip Maternal and Child Nutrition), learner must meet the following entry requirements:
This qualification, the ICTQual AB Level 6 Diploma in Maternal and Child Nutrition (Dip Maternal and Child Nutrition), consists of 6 mandatory units.
- Principles of Maternal Nutrition and Preconception Health
- Nutrition During Pregnancy and Lactation
- Infant Feeding Practices and Early Childhood Nutrition
- Nutritional Assessment and Intervention Planning for Mothers and Children
- Public Health, Policy, and Community Approaches in Maternal and Child Nutrition
- Research Methods and Evidence-Based Practice in Maternal and Child Nutrition
Learning Outcomes for the Study Units:
Principles of Maternal Nutrition and Preconception Health
- Demonstrate a comprehensive understanding of nutritional requirements before and during conception.
- Analyse the role of maternal nutrition in reproductive health and fertility.
- Evaluate the impact of lifestyle, dietary patterns, and micronutrient status on maternal and fetal outcomes.
- Apply evidence-based principles to support preconception health and optimise pregnancy outcomes.
Nutrition During Pregnancy and Lactation
- Assess the changing nutritional needs across different stages of pregnancy and lactation.
- Analyse the role of diet in supporting fetal growth, maternal health, and lactation.
- Develop personalised dietary strategies to prevent maternal and neonatal health complications.
- Apply clinical and community-based approaches to manage nutrition-related challenges during pregnancy and breastfeeding.
Infant Feeding Practices and Early Childhood Nutrition
- Critically evaluate breastfeeding, formula feeding, and complementary feeding practices.
- Assess nutritional requirements and growth patterns in infants and young children.
- Develop evidence-based nutrition plans to support optimal growth, development, and health outcomes.
- Apply strategies to prevent malnutrition, obesity, and diet-related health issues in early childhood.
Nutritional Assessment and Intervention Planning for Mothers and Children
- Conduct detailed nutritional assessments using validated tools and methodologies.
- Analyse clinical, dietary, and lifestyle data to inform personalised nutrition planning.
- Develop and implement interventions to address nutritional deficiencies, dietary risks, and health conditions.
- Monitor and evaluate the effectiveness of nutrition interventions in maternal and child populations.
Public Health, Policy, and Community Approaches in Maternal and Child Nutrition
- Analyse national and international public health policies affecting maternal and child nutrition.
- Develop community-based nutrition programmes to improve maternal and child health outcomes.
- Evaluate strategies for health promotion, education, and policy advocacy in maternal and child nutrition.
- Apply evidence-based practice to support population-level interventions and initiatives.
Research Methods and Evidence-Based Practice in Maternal and Child Nutrition
- Demonstrate competence in research design, data collection, and statistical analysis relevant to maternal and child nutrition.
- Critically appraise scientific literature to inform clinical and community practice.
- Conduct small-scale research or case studies to evaluate nutrition interventions and outcomes.
- Communicate research findings effectively to healthcare professionals, policymakers, and stakeholders.
The ICTQual AB Level 6 Diploma in Maternal and Child Nutrition equips learners with advanced expertise in maternal and child health, preparing them for leadership, research, and specialist roles in clinical, community, and public health settings. Completion of this qualification opens pathways for academic advancement, professional growth, and global career opportunities.
Academic Progression
- Progress to Level 7 Diplomas, postgraduate certificates, or Master’s programmes in Maternal and Child Nutrition, Public Health, Dietetics, or related fields.
- Engage in research projects focusing on maternal and child nutrition, dietary interventions, and developmental health.
- Build a foundation for specialised Continuing Professional Development (CPD) courses in maternal and child health, clinical nutrition, and evidence-based practice.
Professional Career Opportunities
Graduates may pursue roles such as:
- Clinical Nutritionist or Dietitian specialising in maternal, infant, and child nutrition in hospitals, clinics, and community services.
- Public Health Nutritionist contributing to maternal and child health programmes, policy, and education initiatives.
- Healthcare Researcher investigating dietary interventions, growth patterns, and maternal and child health outcomes.
- Policy Advisor or Consultant developing nutrition guidelines, health programmes, and community initiatives.
- Educator or Trainer delivering specialised knowledge in maternal and child nutrition to healthcare professionals, caregivers, or community groups.
Industry Relevance and Global Opportunities
- Address the global need for skilled professionals in maternal and child nutrition and health promotion.
- Collaborate with healthcare institutions, NGOs, community organisations, and public health agencies.
- Apply evidence-based nutrition strategies to improve maternal and child health outcomes and prevent diet-related conditions.
- Influence policy development, programme implementation, and community nutrition initiatives worldwide.
Continuing Professional Development (CPD)
- Maintain and enhance expertise through workshops, seminars, and specialised training in maternal and child nutrition.
- Stay updated with emerging research, dietary trends, and innovations in maternal and child health.
- Build professional networks with healthcare leaders, researchers, and practitioners to support career progression and collaborative initiatives.
