ICTQual AB Level 7 Postgraduate Diploma in Aging and Nutrition (PgD Aging and Nutrition)
The ICTQual AB Level 7 Postgraduate Diploma in Aging and Nutrition (PgD Aging and Nutrition) is an advanced programme designed for healthcare, nutrition, and allied health professionals seeking specialised knowledge in the nutritional needs and health management of older adults. This qualification equips learners with the skills to assess, plan, and implement evidence-based nutritional interventions that support healthy aging, prevent age-related diseases, and enhance quality of life.
Learners undertaking this postgraduate diploma will explore comprehensive topics including geriatric nutrition, age-related physiological changes, chronic disease management, dietary assessment, functional foods, and strategies to promote healthy aging. The programme emphasises integrating scientific research with practical applications, enabling learners to develop personalised nutrition plans, implement interventions in clinical and community settings, and evaluate outcomes using evidence-based approaches. Through case studies, applied projects, and research, learners gain the ability to translate advanced nutritional knowledge into professional practice and policy recommendations tailored to the aging population.
This Level 7 diploma is particularly valuable for professionals aiming to enhance their career prospects, expand their knowledge, and maintain Continuing Professional Development (CPD) in geriatric nutrition, clinical dietetics, and public health. The curriculum combines theoretical knowledge with practical skills, preparing learners to address complex nutritional challenges in hospitals, community health services, care homes, and research institutions.
Designed for dietitians, nutritionists, healthcare practitioners, and allied health specialists, this programme prepares learners for specialist roles in clinical, research, and community health environments. Upon completion, learners will possess the expertise to conduct comprehensive nutritional assessments, develop and implement age-focused dietary interventions, and contribute to research, policy development, and professional practice in aging and nutrition.
Level 7 Postgraduate Diploma in Aging and Nutrition (PgD Aging and Nutrition)
To enrol in ICTQual AB Level 7 Postgraduate Diploma in Aging and Nutrition (PgD Aging and Nutrition), learner must meet the following entry requirements:
This qualification, the ICTQual AB Level 7 Postgraduate Diploma in Aging and Nutrition (PgD Aging and Nutrition), consists of 6 mandatory units.
- Physiological Changes and Nutritional Needs in Aging
- Geriatric Dietary Assessment and Planning
- Management of Age-Related Chronic Diseases through Nutrition
- Functional Foods and Nutraceuticals for Older Adults
- Research Methods and Evidence-Based Practice in Aging Nutrition
- Professional Practice, Ethics, and Leadership in Geriatric Nutrition
Learning Outcomes for the Study Units:
Physiological Changes and Nutritional Needs in Aging
Learners will:
- Demonstrate in-depth knowledge of age-related physiological changes and their impact on nutritional requirements.
- Analyse factors affecting nutrient absorption, metabolism, and energy needs in older adults.
- Apply principles of geriatric nutrition to optimise health outcomes and functional capacity.
Geriatric Dietary Assessment and Planning
Learners will:
- Conduct comprehensive nutritional assessments for older adults, including dietary intake, lifestyle, and health status.
- Develop personalised meal plans and dietary interventions tailored to the needs of aging populations.
- Evaluate and adjust nutritional strategies to support long-term health and wellbeing.
Management of Age-Related Chronic Diseases through Nutrition
Learners will:
- Understand the nutritional management of chronic diseases prevalent in older adults, such as diabetes, cardiovascular conditions, and osteoporosis.
- Design dietary interventions to prevent or manage age-related health conditions.
- Assess the effectiveness of nutritional strategies in clinical and community settings.
Functional Foods and Nutraceuticals for Older Adults
Learners will:
- Demonstrate knowledge of functional foods, nutraceuticals, and bioactive compounds beneficial for aging populations.
- Critically evaluate scientific evidence supporting health claims and interventions.
- Integrate functional foods into dietary strategies for disease prevention and health promotion.
Research Methods and Evidence-Based Practice in Aging Nutrition
Learners will:
- Design and conduct research relevant to aging and nutrition.
- Analyse and interpret complex data to inform practice, policy, and intervention strategies.
- Apply evidence-based principles to develop effective nutritional programmes for older adults.
Professional Practice, Ethics, and Leadership in Geriatric Nutrition
Learners will:
- Demonstrate ethical and professional conduct in clinical, research, and community practice.
- Develop leadership, advocacy, and project management skills in geriatric nutrition programmes.
- Maintain Continuing Professional Development (CPD) to enhance expertise and career progression in aging and nutrition.
The ICTQual AB Level 7 Postgraduate Diploma in Aging and Nutrition equips learners with advanced knowledge and practical skills in geriatric nutrition, dietary interventions, and age-related health management. Graduates are prepared to take on specialist, leadership, and research roles in healthcare, public health, clinical practice, and nutrition consultancy, supporting career advancement, Continuing Professional Development (CPD), and professional recognition.
Career Advancement Opportunities
Graduates can pursue specialist roles, including:
- Geriatric Nutrition Specialist – Designing and implementing nutrition plans for older adults in clinical and community settings.
- Clinical Dietitian or Consultant – Advising healthcare organisations and care homes on age-related dietary interventions and disease management.
- Public Health Nutrition Officer – Developing programmes and initiatives to promote healthy aging and prevent nutrition-related diseases.
- Nutrition Research Analyst – Conducting studies on aging populations, dietary patterns, and nutrition outcomes.
Leadership and Strategic Roles
The programme prepares learners for leadership and management positions:
- Programme Manager in Geriatric Nutrition – Leading nutrition programmes, monitoring outcomes, and managing multidisciplinary teams.
- Policy Advisor or Health Strategist – Contributing to national and international aging and nutrition policies and guidelines.
- Research Project Leader – Leading clinical and community-based research projects to inform best practices in geriatric nutrition.
Academic and Research Progression
Learners may also pursue further academic and professional development opportunities:
- Doctoral Studies (PhD or Professional Doctorate) – Conducting advanced research in aging, clinical nutrition, or public health nutrition.
- Specialised Certification Courses – Expanding expertise in areas such as geriatric disease management, functional foods, or nutrition policy.
- Continuing Professional Development (CPD) – Enhancing skills, staying updated with emerging research, and advancing career prospects.
Consultancy and International Opportunities
Graduates may leverage their expertise to provide consultancy and advisory services:
- Independent Geriatric Nutrition Consultant – Advising on programme design, dietary interventions, and policy development for aging populations.
- International Aging and Nutrition Advisor – Designing and implementing nutrition programmes for older adults globally.
- Training and Education Specialist – Delivering workshops, seminars, and professional training in geriatric nutrition and healthy aging.
