ICTQual AB Level 7 Postgraduate Diploma in Nutritional Support in Critical Care (PgD Critical Care Nutrition)

The ICTQual AB Level 7 Postgraduate Diploma in Nutritional Support in Critical Care (PgD Critical Care Nutrition) is an advanced qualification designed for healthcare and nutrition professionals seeking to specialise in the complex field of critical care nutrition. This programme equips learners with the knowledge, practical skills, and clinical expertise required to assess, plan, and implement nutritional support strategies for critically ill patients in hospital and intensive care settings.

Learners undertaking this postgraduate diploma will develop a deep understanding of advanced nutritional science, metabolism, and the physiological challenges associated with critical illness. The course emphasises evidence-based approaches to nutritional assessment, enteral and parenteral feeding, and the management of patients with acute and chronic critical conditions. With the growing demand for qualified professionals in clinical nutrition, this programme provides learners with the opportunity to enhance their career prospects, expand their knowledge, and maintain Continuing Professional Development (CPD).

The curriculum is designed to integrate theoretical knowledge with practical application, enabling learners to critically analyse research, apply advanced clinical guidelines, and make informed decisions in high-pressure healthcare environments. Learners will also gain insights into multidisciplinary collaboration, ethical considerations, and leadership in clinical nutrition practice.

Ideal for dietitians, clinical nutritionists, healthcare practitioners, and other allied health professionals, this Level 7 diploma prepares learners to assume specialist roles in hospitals, intensive care units, and clinical nutrition teams. Upon completion, learners will be equipped to contribute to improved patient outcomes, lead nutritional support programmes, and strengthen their professional portfolio in critical care nutrition.

Course overview

Level 7 Postgraduate Diploma in Nutritional Support in Critical Care (PgD Critical Care Nutrition)

To enrol in ICTQual AB Level 7 Postgraduate Diploma in Nutritional Support in Critical Care (PgD Critical Care 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, medicine, nursing, or a related discipline is required. Learners with other health or science-related qualifications may be considered based on prior experience and demonstrated competency.
  • Work Experience: While not mandatory, prior experience in clinical nutrition, critical care, hospital settings, or healthcare practice is strongly recommended. This experience allows learners to contextualise theoretical knowledge and apply advanced concepts effectively in real-world clinical scenarios.
  • English Proficiency: As the programme is delivered in English, learners must demonstrate proficiency in the language. This can be evidenced through an IELTS score of 6.5 or above (or equivalent), or prior education completed in English.
  • Additional Requirement: Learners should demonstrate motivation, analytical skills, and a commitment to professional development and CPD. Access to case studies, clinical environments, or research materials may be required to support applied learning and assessment.
  • Centre Requirements: Learners must enrol through centres with qualified and competent staff, access to appropriate learning resources, and facilities capable of supporting advanced clinical nutrition training and successful learner outcomes.

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

  1. Advanced Clinical Nutrition and Metabolism
  2. Nutritional Assessment and Monitoring in Critical Care
  3. Enteral and Parenteral Nutrition Support
  4. Management of Nutrition in Acute and Chronic Critical Illness
  5. Research, Evidence-Based Practice, and Clinical Decision Making
  6. Professional Practice, Ethics, and Leadership in Critical Care Nutrition

Learning Outcomes for the Study Units:

Advanced Clinical Nutrition Knowledge

Learners will develop a deep understanding of advanced nutritional science and metabolism relevant to critical care. Learners will be able to:

  • Demonstrate comprehensive knowledge of macro- and micronutrient requirements in critically ill patients.
  • Analyse the physiological and metabolic responses to acute and chronic critical illness.
  • Critically evaluate emerging research to inform evidence-based nutritional interventions.

Nutritional Assessment and Intervention Skills

Learners will gain expertise in assessing, planning, and implementing nutritional support in critical care. Learners will be able to:

  • Conduct advanced nutritional assessments for critically ill patients using validated tools and clinical guidelines.
  • Design personalised enteral and parenteral nutrition plans for a variety of clinical scenarios.
  • Monitor and adjust nutritional interventions based on patient progress and clinical outcomes.

Management of Critical Care Nutrition

Learners will be able to manage complex nutritional needs in high-pressure healthcare environments. Learners will be able to:

  • Apply clinical decision-making to optimise patient outcomes in intensive care and acute care settings.
  • Integrate multidisciplinary approaches to patient care, collaborating effectively with healthcare teams.
  • Evaluate and mitigate risks associated with nutritional support in critical care.

Research and Evidence-Based Practice

Learners will strengthen their research and analytical skills to support advanced clinical practice. Learners will be able to:

  • Critically appraise clinical research and translate findings into practical nutritional strategies.
  • Develop and implement research-informed protocols for patient care.
  • Conduct outcome evaluations to assess the effectiveness of nutritional interventions.

Professional Practice, Ethics, and Leadership

Learners will cultivate professional, ethical, and leadership skills specific to critical care nutrition. Learners will be able to:

  • Demonstrate professional and ethical conduct in all aspects of clinical nutritional practice.
  • Lead nutrition support initiatives and contribute to policy development in healthcare settings.
  • Maintain Continuing Professional Development (CPD) to advance career prospects and specialist expertise.

The ICTQual AB Level 7 Postgraduate Diploma in Nutritional Support in Critical Care prepares learners for advanced career opportunities in clinical nutrition, healthcare, and critical care settings. This programme equips learners with specialised knowledge, practical skills, and professional competencies that enable them to take on senior roles, leadership positions, and research-based or consultancy roles within the nutrition and healthcare sectors. Completing this qualification enhances career prospects, supports Continuing Professional Development (CPD), and positions learners as experts in critical care nutrition.

Career Advancement Opportunities

Learners completing this programme can progress to a variety of specialist roles, including:

  • Critical Care Nutrition Specialist – Managing nutritional support for patients in intensive care and acute healthcare settings.
  • Clinical Nutrition Advisor – Working alongside multidisciplinary healthcare teams to optimise patient outcomes.
  • Senior Dietitian or Nutritionist – Leading patient care plans and implementing evidence-based nutrition strategies.
  • Wellness and Clinical Consultant – Advising hospitals, healthcare facilities, or private clients on advanced nutritional interventions.

Leadership and Management Roles

The qualification develops leadership and strategic management capabilities for roles such as:

  • Nutrition Support Programme Manager – Overseeing clinical nutrition services in hospital or healthcare environments.
  • Team Leader in Critical Care Nutrition – Coordinating multidisciplinary teams to deliver high-quality nutritional care.
  • Policy Advisor or Consultant – Contributing to healthcare policy development and strategic planning in clinical nutrition.

Academic and Research Progression

Learners may pursue further academic and professional development opportunities:

  • Doctoral Studies (PhD or Professional Doctorate) – Advancing research in critical care nutrition, clinical dietetics, or public health nutrition.
  • Specialised Certifications – Enhancing expertise in areas such as enteral and parenteral nutrition, metabolic support, or intensive care nutrition.
  • Continuing Professional Development (CPD) – Expanding knowledge, staying up-to-date with best practices, and maintaining professional accreditation.

Consultancy and Entrepreneurial Opportunities

Learners may also leverage their expertise to establish independent consultancy or advisory roles:

  • Private Clinical Nutrition Consultancy – Offering expert nutritional support to patients, clinics, or hospitals.
  • Corporate or Institutional Nutrition Advisor – Designing nutrition programmes for healthcare institutions or organisations.
  • Clinical Training and Education – Delivering workshops, seminars, or training programmes for healthcare professionals.

FAQs

This programme is designed for healthcare and nutrition professionals seeking to specialise in critical care nutrition. It is ideal for dietitians, clinical nutritionists, nurses, medical practitioners, and allied health professionals aiming to advance their knowledge, enhance clinical skills, and take on specialist roles in hospital or intensive care settings.

Learners must be at least 21 years old and hold a relevant Level 6 qualification (or equivalent) in nutrition, dietetics, health sciences, biomedical sciences, medicine, nursing, or a related field. Prior professional experience in clinical nutrition or critical care is recommended but not mandatory. English language proficiency is required, typically evidenced by an IELTS score of 6.5 or equivalent, or prior education completed in English. Learners must enrol through centres with qualified staff, appropriate resources, and facilities to ensure successful learning outcomes.

ICTQual AB Level 7 Postgraduate Diploma in Nutritional Support in Critical Care (PgD Critical Care 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 Nutritional Support in Critical Care (PgD Critical Care 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 Nutritional Support in Critical Care (PgD Critical Care 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%