ICTQual AB Level 7 Postgraduate Diploma in Nutritional Counseling (PgD Nutritional Counseling)
The ICTQual AB Level 7 Postgraduate Diploma in Nutritional Counseling (PgD Nutritional Counseling) is an advanced programme designed for learners who wish to specialise in the practice of evidence-based nutritional guidance and behaviour change strategies. This qualification equips professionals with the knowledge and skills to provide personalised nutrition counselling, support lifestyle modifications, and promote sustainable health outcomes across diverse populations.
Learners will explore key areas including nutritional assessment, client-centred counselling techniques, psychological and behavioural approaches to dietary change, and ethical considerations in nutritional practice. The course emphasises an evidence-based and holistic approach, enabling learners to integrate clinical knowledge with practical counselling skills to support clients’ long-term health, weight management, and disease prevention.
This postgraduate diploma is ideal for professionals who wish to enhance their career prospects, expand their knowledge, and strengthen their Continuing Professional Development (CPD). Graduates develop advanced communication, analytical, and clinical skills, preparing them for specialist roles in healthcare, wellness, community nutrition, private practice, and research.
Completing this qualification empowers learners to assume specialist roles in nutritional counselling, lifestyle coaching, clinical practice, and health consultancy. It prepares professionals to make a meaningful impact on clients’ health and wellbeing through the application of advanced nutritional science, motivational strategies, and evidence-based counselling techniques.
Level 7 Postgraduate Diploma in Nutritional Counseling (PgD Nutritional Counseling)
To enrol in ICTQual AB Level 7 Postgraduate Diploma in Nutritional Counseling (PgD Nutritional Counseling), learner must meet the following entry requirements:
This qualification, the ICTQual AB Level 7 Postgraduate Diploma in Nutritional Counseling (PgD Nutritional Counseling), consists of 6 mandatory units.
- Advanced Principles of Nutritional Counseling
- Behavioural and Psychological Approaches to Nutrition
- Client Assessment and Personalized Nutrition Planning
- Research Methods in Nutritional Counseling and Health Sciences
- Public Health and Community Nutrition Strategies
- Leadership and Professional Practice in Nutritional Counseling
Learning Outcomes for the Study Units:
Advanced Principles of Nutritional Counseling
- Demonstrate a comprehensive understanding of the principles and theories underpinning nutritional counseling.
- Analyse evidence-based dietary strategies to support health, wellbeing, and behaviour change.
- Apply advanced knowledge to develop effective client-focused nutrition programmes.
- Evaluate the role of nutrition in disease prevention, weight management, and overall health outcomes.
Behavioural and Psychological Approaches to Nutrition
- Examine psychological and behavioural factors influencing dietary choices and adherence.
- Apply behaviour change theories to promote sustainable nutritional practices.
- Develop strategies to address client motivation, barriers, and emotional factors in nutrition.
- Critically appraise interventions that integrate counselling and behavioural approaches.
Client Assessment and Personalized Nutrition Planning
- Conduct comprehensive nutritional assessments using validated tools and methods.
- Design personalised nutrition plans tailored to clients’ needs, health conditions, and goals.
- Monitor and evaluate client progress to optimise outcomes.
- Communicate complex nutritional information effectively to clients and healthcare teams.
Research Methods in Nutritional Counseling and Health Sciences
- Demonstrate advanced knowledge of research methodologies relevant to nutritional counseling.
- Design and conduct independent studies, including qualitative and quantitative approaches.
- Analyse and interpret data to support evidence-based practice.
- Critically evaluate scientific literature to inform innovative and effective counselling interventions.
Public Health and Community Nutrition Strategies
- Analyse public health policies and programmes influencing nutrition at the community level.
- Develop recommendations to improve population nutrition and wellbeing.
- Evaluate the impact of community-based nutrition initiatives and interventions.
- Apply evidence-based strategies to promote healthy lifestyles and dietary behaviour change.
Leadership and Professional Practice in Nutritional Counseling
- Demonstrate leadership and professional skills in nutritional counselling settings.
- Apply ethical, legal, and professional standards in practice.
- Communicate effectively with clients, stakeholders, and multidisciplinary teams.
- Engage in Continuing Professional Development (CPD) to maintain expertise and support innovation in nutritional counseling.
The ICTQual AB Level 7 Postgraduate Diploma in Nutritional Counseling equips learners with advanced clinical, research, and professional skills, enabling progression to senior roles in nutritional counseling, healthcare, and public health. This qualification provides a foundation for professionals committed to supporting clients’ health, wellbeing, and sustainable behaviour change.
Academic Progression
- Opportunity to progress to doctoral-level study (PhD or professional doctorate) in nutritional counseling, public health, dietetics, or related fields.
- Participation in specialised research programmes exploring behaviour change, counselling strategies, and nutrition interventions.
- Development of skills to contribute to academic publications, teaching, and clinical research projects in nutrition and counselling.
- Access to international collaborations, fellowships, and grants in health, nutrition, and behavioural research.
Professional Progression
- Career advancement to roles such as nutritional counselor, health coach, dietitian, clinical consultant, or wellness programme manager.
- Opportunities to work in clinics, hospitals, community health services, private practice, wellness centres, and research institutions.
- Consultancy roles in client-focused nutrition programmes, public health initiatives, and lifestyle intervention projects.
- Leadership positions overseeing nutrition counselling services, multidisciplinary teams, and community health programmes.
Continuing Professional Development (CPD)
- Engagement in CPD to stay current with emerging research, counselling techniques, and public health guidelines.
- Participation in conferences, workshops, and professional networks to expand expertise and influence in the field.
- Development of leadership, mentoring, and project management skills in nutritional counselling practice.
- Enhanced professional recognition through membership of international dietetics, nutrition, and counselling organisations.
