ICTQual AB Level 7 Postgraduate Diploma in Nutraceuticals and Functional Foods (PgD Nutraceuticals)

The ICTQual AB Level 7 Postgraduate Diploma in Nutraceuticals and Functional Foods (PgD Nutraceuticals) is an advanced programme designed for healthcare, nutrition, food science, and biomedical professionals seeking specialised knowledge in bioactive compounds, functional ingredients, and their applications for health promotion and disease prevention. This qualification equips learners with the expertise to critically evaluate, develop, and implement evidence-based strategies in the growing field of nutraceuticals and functional foods.

Learners undertaking this postgraduate diploma will explore advanced topics including bioactive compounds, nutrigenomics, functional food formulation, regulatory frameworks, and the scientific basis for health claims. The programme emphasises integrating research findings with practical applications, enabling learners to assess the efficacy, safety, and nutritional impact of functional foods and nutraceutical products. Through case studies, laboratory research, and applied projects, learners will gain the skills necessary to contribute to product development, clinical practice, and public health initiatives.

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 the areas of functional nutrition, nutraceutical development, and clinical applications. The curriculum combines theoretical knowledge with practical skills, preparing learners to engage in research, quality control, formulation, and consumer education.

Ideal for dietitians, nutritionists, food scientists, clinical researchers, and allied health professionals, this programme prepares learners for specialist roles in nutraceutical companies, healthcare settings, research institutions, and regulatory organisations. Upon completion, learners will possess the expertise to design and evaluate functional food products, apply evidence-based nutraceutical interventions, and contribute to scientific research, policy development, and professional practice in this dynamic and evolving field.

Course overview

Level 7 Postgraduate Diploma in Nutraceuticals and Functional Foods (PgD Nutraceuticals)

To enrol in ICTQual AB Level 7 Postgraduate Diploma in Nutraceuticals and Functional Foods (PgD Nutraceuticals), 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, food science, biomedical sciences, health sciences, or a related discipline is required. Degrees in allied health professions, medicine, or clinical research may also be considered appropriate.
  • Work Experience: While not mandatory, prior experience in nutrition, functional food development, clinical practice, or research is recommended. This experience allows learners to contextualise theoretical knowledge and apply advanced nutraceutical and functional food concepts effectively.
  • English Proficiency: Learners must demonstrate proficiency in English, typically evidenced by an IELTS score of 6.5 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 and CPD. Access to laboratory facilities, case studies, research materials, or product formulation resources may be required to support applied learning and assessments.
  • Centre Requirements: Learners must enrol through centres with qualified and competent staff, access to appropriate learning resources, and facilities capable of supporting high-quality training and successful learner outcomes.

This qualification, the ICTQual AB Level 7 Postgraduate Diploma in Nutraceuticals and Functional Foods (PgD Nutraceuticals), consists of 6 mandatory units.

  1. Advanced Nutraceutical Science and Bioactive Compounds
  2. Functional Food Formulation and Development
  3. Nutrigenomics and Personalized Nutrition
  4. Regulatory Frameworks and Health Claims
  5. Research Methods and Evidence-Based Practice in Nutraceuticals
  6. Professional Practice, Ethics, and Leadership in Nutraceuticals and Functional Foods

Learning Outcomes for the Study Units:

Advanced Nutraceutical Science and Bioactive Compounds

Learners will:

  • Demonstrate comprehensive knowledge of bioactive compounds, functional ingredients, and their physiological effects.
  • Critically evaluate scientific literature on nutraceutical efficacy, safety, and health outcomes.
  • Analyse the role of nutraceuticals in disease prevention, health promotion, and clinical applications.

Functional Food Formulation and Development

Learners will:

  • Develop expertise in designing, formulating, and evaluating functional food products.
  • Apply scientific principles to optimise bioavailability, stability, and consumer acceptability.
  • Assess product effectiveness through applied research and evidence-based methodologies.

Nutrigenomics and Personalized Nutrition

Learners will:

  • Understand the interaction between genes, nutrition, and health outcomes.
  • Analyse individualised dietary strategies based on genetic, metabolic, and lifestyle factors.
  • Apply nutrigenomic knowledge to enhance personalised nutrition interventions.

Regulatory Frameworks and Health Claims

Learners will:

  • Demonstrate knowledge of national and international regulations governing nutraceuticals and functional foods.
  • Evaluate compliance requirements for product labelling, health claims, and safety standards.
  • Apply regulatory principles to ensure ethical and legal practice in product development and marketing.

Research Methods and Evidence-Based Practice in Nutraceuticals

Learners will:

  • Design and conduct research relevant to nutraceutical and functional food applications.
  • Analyse and interpret complex data to inform product development and clinical practice.
  • Translate research findings into practical, evidence-based recommendations and interventions.

Professional Practice, Ethics, and Leadership in Nutraceuticals and Functional Foods

Learners will:

  • Demonstrate ethical and professional conduct in clinical, research, and industry settings.
  • Develop leadership, project management, and advocacy skills for nutraceutical and functional food initiatives.
  • Maintain Continuing Professional Development (CPD) to enhance expertise and career progression in this field.

The ICTQual AB Level 7 Postgraduate Diploma in Nutraceuticals and Functional Foods equips learners with advanced knowledge and practical skills in nutraceutical science, functional food development, and evidence-based nutrition. Graduates are prepared to take on specialist, leadership, and research roles in the nutraceutical, food science, healthcare, and regulatory sectors, supporting career advancement, Continuing Professional Development (CPD), and professional recognition.

Career Advancement Opportunities

Graduates can pursue specialist roles, including:

  • Nutraceutical Product Developer – Designing and developing functional foods and dietary supplements for health promotion.
  • Clinical Nutrition Consultant – Advising healthcare organisations and clients on evidence-based nutraceutical interventions.
  • Food Science and Research Specialist – Conducting research on bioactive compounds, functional ingredients, and product efficacy.
  • Regulatory Compliance Officer – Ensuring nutraceutical and functional food products meet national and international standards.

Leadership and Strategic Roles

The programme prepares learners for leadership and management positions:

  • Project Manager in Nutraceutical Development – Leading teams in research, formulation, and product launch initiatives.
  • Policy Advisor or Health Strategist – Contributing to regulations, health policies, and industry guidelines for functional foods.
  • Research Project Leader – Leading clinical and laboratory research projects to advance knowledge in nutraceutical applications.

Academic and Research Progression

Learners may also pursue further academic and professional development opportunities:

  • Doctoral Studies (PhD or Professional Doctorate) – Conducting advanced research in nutraceutical science, functional foods, or clinical nutrition.
  • Specialised Certification Courses – Expanding expertise in areas such as nutrigenomics, functional food innovation, or regulatory affairs.
  • 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 Nutraceutical Consultant – Advising on product design, formulation, research, and market strategies.
  • International Health and Nutrition Advisor – Developing and implementing functional food and nutraceutical initiatives globally.
  • Training and Education Specialist – Delivering workshops, seminars, and professional training in nutraceuticals, functional foods, and clinical nutrition.

FAQs

This programme is designed for healthcare, nutrition, food science, and biomedical professionals seeking advanced expertise in nutraceuticals, functional foods, and evidence-based nutritional interventions. It is ideal for dietitians, nutritionists, food scientists, clinical researchers, and allied health professionals aiming to enhance their career prospects and professional practice.

Learners must be at least 21 years old and hold a relevant Level 6 qualification (or equivalent) in nutrition, dietetics, food science, biomedical sciences, health sciences, or a related discipline. Prior professional experience in nutrition, functional food development, or research is recommended but not mandatory. Learners must demonstrate English proficiency, typically evidenced by an IELTS score of 6.5 or equivalent, or prior education completed in English. Enrolment must be through centres with qualified staff, appropriate resources, and facilities for high-quality training.

ICTQual AB Level 7 Postgraduate Diploma in Nutraceuticals and Functional Foods (PgD Nutraceuticals) 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 Nutraceuticals and Functional Foods (PgD Nutraceuticals) 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 Nutraceuticals and Functional Foods (PgD Nutraceuticals) 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%