The LICQual Level 7 Postgraduate Diploma in Nutritional Sciences (PgD Nutritional Sciences) is a prestigious qualification designed for experienced professionals seeking to advance their expertise in nutrition, health, and metabolic sciences. This programme provides in-depth knowledge of advanced nutritional principles, scientific research, and practical applications, equipping learners with the skills required to address complex nutritional challenges in professional practice.
Unlike entry-level courses, this qualification is not intended for fresh candidates. Instead, it has been carefully structured for professionals who are committed to enhancing their career prospects, broadening their knowledge base, and achieving significant progress in their Continuing Professional Development (CPD). By undertaking this diploma, learners gain the ability to critically evaluate nutritional research, design evidence-based strategies, and apply advanced nutritional science within healthcare, academic, and industry settings.
Centres delivering this qualification are required to maintain the highest standards of training. They must ensure that competent and qualified staff are available to guide and support learners throughout their studies. In addition, centres must be equipped with the necessary materials, resources, and facilities to provide a comprehensive and effective learning experience.
This programme is ideal for professionals aiming to specialize further, take on leadership roles, or contribute to innovative research in the field of nutritional sciences. With its strong academic foundation and practical orientation, the LICQual Level 7 Postgraduate Diploma in Nutritional Sciences prepares learners to excel in both national and international professional environments.
Course Overview
Qualification Title
LICQual Level 7 Postgraduate Diploma in Nutritional Sciences (PgD Nutritional Sciences)
Total Units
6
Total Credits
120
GLH
600
Qualification #
LICQ2201121
Qualification Specification
To enroll in the LICQual Level 7 Postgraduate Diploma in Nutritional Sciences (PgD Nutritional Sciences), applicants must meet the following criteria:
|
Qualification# |
Unit Title |
Credits |
GLH |
|---|---|---|---|
|
LICQ2201121-1 |
Advanced Principles of Nutritional Sciences |
20 |
100 |
|
LICQ2201121-2 |
Metabolic Pathways and Nutrient Utilization |
20 |
100 |
|
LICQ2201121-3 |
Nutritional Assessment and Clinical Practice |
20 |
100 |
|
LICQ2201121-4 |
Research Methods in Nutritional Sciences |
20 |
100 |
|
LICQ2201121-5 |
Public Health Nutrition and Global Challenges |
20 |
100 |
|
LICQ2201121-6 |
Innovations in Nutritional Science and Professional Practice |
20 |
100 |
By the end of this course, learners will be able to:
1. Advanced Principles of Nutritional Sciences
Learners will be able to:
- Critically analyse the biochemical and physiological foundations of nutrition.
- Evaluate the roles of macro and micronutrients in human health.
- Apply advanced nutritional principles to the prevention and management of diseases.
2. Metabolic Pathways and Nutrient Utilization
Learners will be able to:
- Demonstrate an in-depth understanding of energy metabolism and nutrient absorption.
- Assess the influence of hormonal regulation on metabolic processes.
- Integrate knowledge of metabolic adaptations into clinical and professional practice.
3. Nutritional Assessment and Clinical Practice
Learners will be able to:
- Apply advanced techniques to measure dietary intake and nutritional status.
- Interpret clinical biomarkers and diagnostic data in nutrition assessments.
- Develop and implement evidence-based nutrition interventions for individuals and populations.
4. Research Methods in Nutritional Sciences
Learners will be able to:
- Critically evaluate methodologies used in nutrition research.
- Apply advanced statistical tools to analyse and interpret nutrition data.
- Design and conduct independent research projects at a postgraduate level.
5. Public Health Nutrition and Global Challenges
Learners will be able to:
- Analyse the impact of nutrition on public health outcomes and policy.
- Propose strategies to address malnutrition, obesity, and non-communicable diseases.
- Evaluate sustainable approaches to nutrition within global food systems.
6. Innovations in Nutritional Science and Professional Practice
Learners will be able to:
- Assess emerging trends such as nutrigenomics and personalised nutrition.
- Apply technological advancements to modern nutrition practice.
- Demonstrate leadership, ethical practice, and commitment to professional development in nutritional sciences.
The LICQual Level 7 Postgraduate Diploma in Nutritional Sciences (PgD Nutritional Sciences) is designed for experienced professionals who are ready to take their expertise to the next level. This advanced programme is not intended for beginners but is tailored for those who want to deepen their knowledge, enhance their career prospects, and strengthen their Continuing Professional Development (CPD).
This course is ideal for:
- Nutritionists and Dietitians seeking to gain advanced knowledge in nutritional sciences and clinical applications.
- Healthcare Professionals such as doctors, nurses, and allied health practitioners who wish to integrate evidence-based nutrition into their practice.
- Food Scientists and Industry Experts aiming to specialise in product development, functional foods, or public health nutrition.
- Public Health Specialists who want to design strategies to combat malnutrition, obesity, and non-communicable diseases.
- Researchers and Academics looking to strengthen their expertise in nutrition research methodologies and scientific innovation.
- Wellness and Lifestyle Consultants aiming to deliver advanced, evidence-based nutritional guidance to individuals and communities.
Enrolling in this programme will equip learners with the skills and confidence to make meaningful contributions to healthcare, academia, industry, and public health at both national and international levels.
Centres delivering the LICQual Level 7 Postgraduate Diploma in Nutritional Sciences (PgD Nutritional Sciences) must meet the highest quality standards to ensure effective teaching, learner success, and professional outcomes. To maintain credibility and excellence, centres are required to provide the following:
- Qualified and Competent Staff – Trainers, assessors, and academic staff must hold relevant academic and professional qualifications in nutritional sciences, dietetics, health sciences, or related fields, along with proven industry experience.
- Comprehensive Learning Resources – Centres must have access to up-to-date academic materials, journals, research databases, and digital tools to support advanced study and independent research.
- Appropriate Facilities – A suitable learning environment, including classrooms, laboratories (where required), and online platforms for blended or distance learning delivery.
- Robust Assessment Systems – Effective systems to monitor, assess, and evaluate learner progress in line with international academic standards.
- Learner Support Services – Centres must provide academic guidance, mentoring, and pastoral support to enhance the learner experience and progression.
- Commitment to Quality Assurance – Ongoing internal verification, staff development, and compliance with LICQual quality assurance procedures to maintain high training standards.
By meeting these centre requirements, institutions ensure that learners undertaking the LICQual Level 7 Postgraduate Diploma in Nutritional Sciences receive world-class training, practical support, and the resources needed to achieve professional excellence.
Assessment and Verification
All units within this qualification are subject to internal assessment by the approved centre and external verification by LICQual. The qualification follows a criterion-referenced assessment approach, ensuring that learners meet all specified learning outcomes.
To achieve a ‘Pass’ in any unit, learners must provide valid, sufficient, and authentic evidence demonstrating their attainment of all learning outcomes and compliance with the prescribed assessment criteria. The Assessor is responsible for evaluating the evidence and determining whether the learner has successfully met the required standards.
Assessors must maintain a clear and comprehensive audit trail, documenting the basis for their assessment decisions to ensure transparency, consistency, and compliance with quality assurance requirements.
