ICTQual AB Level 7 Postgraduate Diploma in Nutritional Psychology (PgD Nutritional Psychology)
The ICTQual AB Level 7 Postgraduate Diploma in Nutritional Psychology (PgD Nutritional Psychology) is an advanced programme designed for learners seeking to specialise in the interplay between nutrition and mental health. This qualification equips professionals with the knowledge and skills to understand how dietary habits, nutrient intake, and metabolic processes influence cognitive function, emotional wellbeing, and behaviour.
Learners will explore key areas including nutritional neuroscience, psychological assessment, behavioural interventions, clinical nutrition strategies, and the impact of diet on mental health disorders. The course emphasises a research-informed and client-centred approach, enabling learners to assess individual nutritional and psychological needs, develop evidence-based interventions, and monitor outcomes effectively. Learners also gain expertise in interpreting scientific literature, evaluating psychological and biochemical data, and applying best practices in nutritional psychology.
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 analytical, clinical, and practical skills, preparing them for specialist roles in mental health nutrition, research, consultancy, and clinical practice.
Completing this qualification empowers learners to assume specialist roles in nutritional psychology, cognitive health, behavioural nutrition interventions, and mental wellbeing consultancy. It prepares professionals to make a meaningful impact on individual and population mental health by applying advanced nutritional science, psychological insights, and evidence-based strategies to support optimal cognitive and emotional wellbeing.
Level 7 Postgraduate Diploma in Nutritional Psychology (PgD Nutritional Psychology)
To enrol in ICTQual AB Level 7 Postgraduate Diploma in Nutritional Psychology (PgD Nutritional Psychology), learner must meet the following entry requirements:
This qualification, the ICTQual AB Level 7 Postgraduate Diploma in Nutritional Psychology (PgD Nutritional Psychology), consists of 6 mandatory units.
- Advanced Principles of Nutritional Psychology
- Behavioural and Cognitive Nutrition
- Clinical Assessment and Psychological Interventions
- Research Methods in Nutritional Psychology and Health Sciences
- Public Health, Wellbeing, and Policy Development
- Leadership and Professional Practice in Nutritional Psychology
Learning Outcomes for the Study Units:
Advanced Principles of Nutritional Psychology
- Demonstrate a comprehensive understanding of the scientific principles linking nutrition, brain function, and mental health.
- Analyse the biochemical and physiological mechanisms by which nutrients influence cognition and emotional wellbeing.
- Apply evidence-based nutritional psychology principles to clinical and research settings.
- Critically evaluate emerging research and theoretical frameworks in nutritional psychology.
Behavioural and Cognitive Nutrition
- Examine behavioural and cognitive factors influencing dietary choices, eating patterns, and mental health outcomes.
- Develop strategies to promote sustainable dietary behaviour change and enhance psychological wellbeing.
- Apply cognitive and behavioural interventions in nutritional practice to support clients’ goals.
- Evaluate the effectiveness of behaviour-focused nutrition interventions using evidence-based methods.
Clinical Assessment and Psychological Interventions
- Conduct detailed psychological and nutritional assessments using validated tools and methods.
- Interpret clinical, biochemical, and psychological data to guide personalised interventions.
- Design and implement tailored nutrition plans that integrate psychological and behavioural insights.
- Communicate assessment findings and intervention plans effectively to clients and multidisciplinary teams.
Research Methods in Nutritional Psychology and Health Sciences
- Demonstrate advanced understanding of research methodologies relevant to nutritional psychology.
- Design and conduct independent studies integrating nutritional, psychological, and clinical data.
- Analyse and interpret research findings to inform evidence-based interventions.
- Critically appraise scientific literature to support innovation and clinical decision-making in nutritional psychology.
Public Health, Wellbeing, and Policy Development
- Analyse public health strategies and policies related to nutrition, mental health, and wellbeing.
- Develop evidence-based recommendations for population-level interventions.
- Evaluate the impact of nutrition and wellbeing initiatives on mental health outcomes.
- Apply knowledge to support sustainable public health programmes and psychological wellness interventions.
Leadership and Professional Practice in Nutritional Psychology
- Demonstrate leadership and professional skills in nutritional psychology settings.
- Apply ethical, legal, and professional standards in clinical, research, and consultancy contexts.
- Communicate complex nutritional and psychological information effectively to clients and stakeholders.
- Engage in Continuing Professional Development (CPD) to maintain expertise and support innovation in nutritional psychology.
The ICTQual AB Level 7 Postgraduate Diploma in Nutritional Psychology equips learners with advanced clinical, research, and professional skills, enabling progression to senior roles in healthcare, mental health, and wellness sectors. This qualification provides a foundation for professionals committed to integrating nutrition and psychology to optimise cognitive function, emotional wellbeing, and behavioural outcomes.
Academic Progression
- Opportunity to progress to doctoral-level study (PhD or professional doctorate) in nutritional psychology, clinical nutrition, or related fields.
- Participation in specialised research programmes exploring the relationship between diet, mental health, and behavioural interventions.
- Development of skills to contribute to academic publications, teaching, and clinical research projects in nutritional psychology.
- Access to international collaborations, fellowships, and grants in cognitive nutrition and mental health research.
Professional Progression
- Career advancement to roles such as nutritional psychologist, clinical nutritionist, mental health consultant, wellness advisor, or research specialist.
- Opportunities to work in hospitals, private clinics, mental health services, wellness centres, and research institutions.
- Consultancy roles in nutrition-focused behavioural interventions, cognitive health programmes, and psychological wellbeing initiatives.
- Leadership positions overseeing mental health nutrition services, multidisciplinary teams, and population-level wellbeing programmes.
Continuing Professional Development (CPD)
- Engagement in CPD to stay current with emerging research, clinical protocols, and evidence-based interventions in nutritional psychology.
- Participation in conferences, workshops, and professional networks to expand expertise and influence in the field.
- Development of leadership, mentoring, and project management skills in clinical and applied nutrition psychology settings.
- Enhanced professional recognition through membership of international nutrition, psychology, and healthcare organisations.
