ICTQual AB Level 7 Postgraduate Diploma in Clinical Nutrition (PgD Clinical Nutrition)

Qualification Specification File

The ICTQual AB Level 7 Postgraduate Diploma in Clinical Nutrition (PgD Clinical Nutrition) is an advanced qualification designed for healthcare and nutrition professionals seeking to expand their expertise, enhance their career prospects, and strengthen their Continuing Professional Development (CPD). In today’s evolving healthcare and wellness sector, the ability to apply evidence-based nutritional strategies is essential for improving patient outcomes, supporting public health initiatives, and addressing complex dietary challenges. This programme equips learners with a deep understanding of clinical nutrition, bridging the gap between scientific research and practical application.

Through this diploma, learners gain the opportunity to explore advanced concepts such as nutritional assessment, metabolism, diet therapy, and the management of clinical conditions through tailored dietary interventions. The curriculum is carefully structured to meet industry demand for professionals who can integrate nutritional science into healthcare practice, making it a valuable qualification for those aiming to work in hospitals, clinics, research institutions, or community health settings.

By undertaking this programme, learners not only develop critical analytical and problem-solving skills but also enhance their ability to design, implement, and evaluate effective nutrition strategies. The qualification empowers them to contribute meaningfully to multidisciplinary healthcare teams, strengthen their leadership capacity, and position themselves as trusted experts in the field of clinical nutrition.

This postgraduate diploma is ideal for professionals who wish to expand their knowledge base, elevate their professional standing, and make a significant impact on individual and public health through evidence-driven nutritional practice.

Course overview

Level 7 Postgraduate Diploma in Clinical Nutrition (PgD Clinical Nutrition)

To enrol in ICTQual AB Level 7 Postgraduate Diploma in Clinical Nutrition (PgD Clinical Nutrition), learner must meet the following entry requirements:

  • Age Requirement: Learners must be at least 21 years old at the time of registration.
  • Educational Background: A relevant Level 6 qualification (or equivalent) in nutrition, dietetics, health sciences, biomedical sciences, or a related discipline is required. Degrees in medicine, nursing, pharmacy, or allied health fields may also be considered appropriate.
  • Work Experience: While not mandatory, prior work experience in healthcare, nutrition, or clinical practice is strongly recommended, as it will enable learners to contextualise their knowledge and apply advanced concepts effectively.
  • English Proficiency: As the qualification is delivered in English, learners must demonstrate proficiency in the language. This can be evidenced through an IELTS score of 6.0 or above (or equivalent), or prior education completed in English.
  • Additional Requirement: Learners are expected to demonstrate motivation, analytical skills, and a commitment to professional development. Access to relevant case studies, healthcare settings, or research materials may be required to support applied learning and assessment.
  • Centre Requirements: Centres delivering this programme must ensure they have qualified and competent staff, appropriate learning resources, and the necessary facilities to support high-quality training and successful learner outcomes.

This qualification, the ICTQual AB Level 7 Postgraduate Diploma in Clinical Nutrition (PgD Clinical Nutrition), consists of 6 mandatory units.

  1. Advanced Principles of Clinical Nutrition
  2. Nutritional Assessment and Diagnostic Approaches
  3. Diet Therapy and Management of Clinical Conditions
  4. Research Methods in Nutrition and Health Sciences
  5. Public Health Nutrition and Policy Development
  6. Leadership and Professional Practice in Clinical Nutrition

Learning Outcomes for the Study Units:

Advanced Principles of Clinical Nutrition

  • Demonstrate a critical understanding of the biochemical and physiological foundations of human nutrition.
  • Analyse the role of macro- and micronutrients in maintaining health and preventing disease.
  • Evaluate advanced theories and current research on nutrition in clinical and healthcare contexts.
  • Apply evidence-based approaches to complex nutritional challenges in professional practice.

Nutritional Assessment and Diagnostic Approaches

  • Utilise advanced tools and methods to assess dietary intake, anthropometry, and biochemical data.
  • Interpret clinical indicators to identify nutritional deficiencies, imbalances, and risks.
  • Design comprehensive nutrition assessments tailored to diverse populations and clinical settings.
  • Critically appraise diagnostic techniques for accuracy, reliability, and ethical application.

Diet Therapy and Management of Clinical Conditions

  • Apply advanced dietetic principles in the prevention and management of chronic and acute diseases.
  • Formulate and evaluate individualised diet therapy plans for conditions such as obesity, diabetes, cardiovascular disease, and gastrointestinal disorders.
  • Integrate clinical evidence, patient needs, and cultural considerations into dietary interventions.
  • Monitor and assess the effectiveness of nutrition care plans within clinical settings.

Research Methods in Nutrition and Health Sciences

  • Demonstrate advanced knowledge of qualitative and quantitative research methodologies.
  • Design, plan, and conduct independent research projects relevant to clinical nutrition.
  • Analyse and interpret data using appropriate statistical tools and techniques.
  • Critically evaluate scientific literature to inform professional practice and decision-making.

Public Health Nutrition and Policy Development

  • Assess the impact of nutrition on public health outcomes at community and population levels.
  • Evaluate national and international nutrition policies, guidelines, and frameworks.
  • Design and advocate for evidence-based nutrition programmes and interventions that address public health needs.
  • Demonstrate the ability to influence policy through research, education, and advocacy.

Leadership and Professional Practice in Clinical Nutrition

  • Exhibit advanced leadership and management skills in clinical and multidisciplinary teams.
  • Apply professional, ethical, and legal standards in clinical nutrition practice.
  • Communicate complex nutritional concepts effectively to healthcare professionals, patients, and policymakers.
  • Reflect critically on personal development and engage in Continuing Professional Development (CPD) for long-term career growth.

The ICTQual AB Level 7 Postgraduate Diploma in Clinical Nutrition provides learners with advanced expertise that opens a wide range of academic and professional opportunities. This qualification equips learners with the knowledge, research capability, and practical skills required to progress further in higher education as well as to take on senior roles in clinical, healthcare, and public health nutrition. It is designed to support long-term career growth, strengthen professional credibility, and enhance Continuing Professional Development (CPD).

Academic Progression

  • Progression to doctoral-level study (PhD or professional doctorate) in nutrition, dietetics, health sciences, or related fields.
  • Entry into specialised postgraduate research programmes in areas such as metabolic disorders, nutritional psychology, or public health policy.
  • Opportunities to contribute to academic research, publications, and teaching within universities and higher education institutions.
  • Development of advanced research portfolios that support applications for funded research positions and fellowships.

Professional Progression

  • Advancement into senior clinical nutritionist or dietitian roles within hospitals, clinics, and healthcare organisations.
  • Opportunities to lead public health initiatives and nutrition-focused programmes for governments, NGOs, and international health organisations.
  • Career progression into specialist consultancy roles providing expertise in clinical nutrition, wellness, or healthcare innovation.
  • Eligibility for roles in regulatory bodies, policy development agencies, and professional associations, influencing nutrition standards and healthcare policies.
  • Opportunities to contribute as a researcher, advisor, or trainer within the health and nutrition industry.

Continuing Professional Development (CPD)

  • Engagement in ongoing CPD to ensure professional skills remain current and aligned with international standards.
  • Expansion of professional networks through conferences, workshops, and industry collaborations.
  • Development of leadership capabilities to take on mentoring, supervisory, or managerial roles in nutrition and healthcare settings.

FAQs

This programme is designed for learners who are already working in healthcare, nutrition, dietetics, or related fields and wish to advance their professional expertise. It is ideal for those seeking to enhance their knowledge of clinical nutrition, expand their career opportunities, and strengthen their Continuing Professional Development (CPD).

Learners must be at least 21 years of age and hold a Level 6 qualification (or equivalent) in nutrition, dietetics, health sciences, or a related discipline. While professional experience in healthcare or nutrition is recommended, it is not compulsory. Proficiency in English is required to ensure successful participation.

ICTQual AB Level 7 Postgraduate Diploma in Clinical Nutrition (PgD Clinical Nutrition) is 120 Credits training program. As this Training program have mandatory assessment which will be conducted through Approved Training Centers.

ICTQual AB allows to offer Level 7 Postgraduate Diploma in Clinical Nutrition (PgD Clinical 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 7 Postgraduate Diploma in Clinical Nutrition (PgD Clinical 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%