ICTQual AB Level 3 Diploma in Sports Nutrition (Dip Sports Nutrition)

The ICTQual AB Level 3 Diploma in Sports Nutrition (Dip Sports Nutrition) is a specialised qualification designed for learners who want to develop a solid understanding of the science of nutrition in relation to athletic performance, fitness, and overall wellbeing. Sports nutrition has become an essential field within both professional and recreational sports, as proper dietary planning directly impacts energy levels, endurance, recovery, and injury prevention. This diploma provides learners with the knowledge and skills to apply evidence-based nutritional strategies that optimise performance across different sporting disciplines.

Through this programme, learners will explore the principles of macronutrient and micronutrient requirements for athletes, hydration strategies, supplementation, and the role of nutrition in exercise physiology. They will also gain the ability to assess dietary needs, design tailored nutrition plans, and provide practical advice to support athletes, fitness enthusiasts, and individuals pursuing active lifestyles.

This qualification is particularly valuable for those looking to expand their professional expertise, enhance career opportunities, and strengthen their Continuing Professional Development (CPD). It is suitable for learners working in fitness, coaching, healthcare, or wellness roles who want to deepen their knowledge and deliver practical solutions that improve performance and health outcomes.

By completing the Dip Sports Nutrition, learners will be well-prepared to engage in professional practice, support athletes at various levels, and contribute to the growing demand for nutrition specialists in the sports and wellness industries. The programme ensures that learners acquire both theoretical knowledge and practical skills, enabling them to make a positive impact in one of the fastest-growing areas of health and fitness.

Course overview

Level 3 Diploma in Sports Nutrition (Dip Sports Nutrition)

To enrol in ICTQual AB Level 3 Diploma in Sports Nutrition (Dip Sports Nutrition), learner must meet the following entry requirements:

  • Age Requirement: Learners must be at least 18 years old at the time of registration.
  • Educational Background: A minimum of a Level 2 qualification or equivalent is recommended. A background in health sciences, biology, fitness, or nutrition is advantageous but not mandatory.
  • Work Experience: Prior experience in sports, fitness, wellness, or healthcare can be beneficial, though it is not a compulsory requirement.
  • English Proficiency: Learners must demonstrate sufficient English language skills to understand course materials, complete assignments, and communicate effectively.
  • Additional Requirement:Learners are expected to have basic ICT skills to access digital resources, conduct online research, and complete assessments where required.
  • Centre Requirements: Centres delivering this qualification must have competent and qualified staff, along with the required learning resources, facilities, and support systems to ensure high-quality delivery and learner success.

This qualification, the ICTQual AB Level 3 Diploma in Sports Nutrition (Dip Sports Nutrition), consists of 6 mandatory units.

  1. Principles of Sports Nutrition
  2. Exercise Physiology and Energy Systems
  3. Hydration and Supplementation in Sport
  4. Nutrition for Performance and Endurance
  5. Nutrition Across the Athlete’s Life Cycle
  6. Professional Practice and Continuing Development in Sports Nutrition

Learning Outcomes for the Study Units:

Principles of Sports Nutrition

  • Understand the role of nutrition in athletic performance and recovery.
  • Identify the macronutrient and micronutrient needs of active individuals.
  • Explain how nutrition supports energy production and exercise capacity.
  • Apply the concept of a balanced diet to athletes and fitness professionals.

Exercise Physiology and Energy Systems

  • Explore how the body uses energy during different types of exercise.
  • Analyse the effects of training intensity and duration on energy metabolism.
  • Explain the interaction between exercise physiology and nutrition.
  • Assess the role of glycogen, fat, and protein in sports performance.

Hydration and Supplementation in Sport

  • Understand the importance of hydration for performance and recovery.
  • Evaluate the effects of dehydration on physical and cognitive function.
  • Examine common supplements used in sport and their evidence-based benefits.
  • Apply safe and ethical practices in advising on supplementation.

Nutrition for Performance and Endurance

  • Design nutrition plans for athletes based on sport-specific needs.
  • Apply carbohydrate loading and recovery strategies for endurance events.
  • Analyse the role of protein in muscle growth, repair, and recovery.
  • Adapt nutrition strategies for strength, power, and endurance athletes.

Nutrition Across the Athlete’s Life Cycle

  • Explore the nutritional needs of athletes at different life stages.
  • Understand gender-specific considerations in sports nutrition.
  • Assess the impact of growth, ageing, and hormonal changes on performance.
  • Develop nutrition strategies tailored to diverse athletic populations.

Professional Practice and Continuing Development in Sports Nutrition

  • Demonstrate ethical responsibilities in sports nutrition practice.
  • Apply effective communication skills when advising athletes and clients.
  • Reflect on the importance of Continuing Professional Development (CPD).
  • Develop strategies to stay updated with industry trends and scientific research.

Completing the ICTQual AB Level 3 Diploma in Sports Nutrition (Dip Sports Nutrition) provides learners with a strong foundation to advance academically and professionally in one of the fastest-growing areas of health and fitness. With sports nutrition becoming increasingly essential in athletic performance, recovery, and long-term wellbeing, this qualification opens opportunities for learners to pursue further education, professional development, and diverse career pathways.

Academic Progression

  • Progression to Level 4 and Level 5 Diplomas in Sports Nutrition, Exercise Science, or Health and Wellness.
  • Opportunity to specialise in related fields such as Strength and Conditioning, Sports Therapy, or Advanced Clinical Nutrition.
  • A solid stepping stone towards degree-level study in Nutrition, Sports Science, or Dietetics.

Professional Development

  • Supports Continuing Professional Development (CPD) for fitness trainers, coaches, healthcare workers, and wellness practitioners.
  • Enhances the ability to design and implement evidence-based nutrition plans for athletes and active individuals.
  • Strengthens professional credibility within sports, fitness, and wellness industries.

Career Opportunities

  • Roles in fitness centres, sports clubs, and athletic organisations providing nutrition support.
  • Opportunities in wellness consultancy, personal training, and health coaching.
  • Potential to work with schools, community programmes, or recreational athletes promoting healthy performance-focused nutrition.
  • Foundation for advisory roles in supplement companies or health product organisations.

This diploma ensures learners gain both theoretical knowledge and practical expertise, positioning them to contribute effectively to athlete development, public health initiatives, and the wider wellness industry.

FAQs

This course is designed for learners who are passionate about sports, fitness, and nutrition, and who wish to build professional knowledge in sports nutrition. It is ideal for fitness trainers, coaches, healthcare workers, wellness professionals, and individuals seeking Continuing Professional Development (CPD) to support athletic performance and wellbeing.

Learners must be at least 18 years old to enrol. A Level 2 qualification or equivalent is recommended, and while prior experience in fitness, sports, or healthcare can be helpful, it is not mandatory. Learners should have adequate English language proficiency to engage with the course content. Centres delivering this qualification must provide competent staff and the necessary learning resources to ensure a high-quality learning experience.

ICTQual AB Level 3 Diploma in Sports Nutrition (Dip Sports Nutrition) is 30 Credits training program. As this Training program have mandatory assessment which will be conducted through Approved Training Centers.

ICTQual AB allows to offer Level 3 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 3 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%