The LICQual Level 7 Postgraduate Diploma in Nutraceuticals and Functional Foods (PgD Nutraceuticals) is an advanced qualification designed for professionals who wish to specialize in the growing fields of nutraceuticals, functional foods, and evidence-based nutrition. This programme offers learners a comprehensive understanding of bioactive compounds, functional food development, and the application of nutraceuticals in promoting health and preventing disease.
This qualification is not intended for fresh candidates. It has been specifically developed for experienced professionals who are seeking to expand their knowledge, enhance their career prospects, and strengthen their Continuing Professional Development (CPD). Through this programme, learners gain the skills to critically analyse scientific research, evaluate regulatory frameworks, and apply advanced knowledge to product development, clinical practice, and public health initiatives.
Centres offering this qualification must ensure that delivery is of the highest quality. They are required to have competent and qualified staff with expertise in food science, nutrition, or related disciplines, along with access to modern learning materials and research resources. This ensures that learners receive a professional and engaging learning experience, supported by practical insights and up-to-date scientific knowledge.
By completing the LICQual Level 7 Postgraduate Diploma in Nutraceuticals and Functional Foods, learners will be equipped to take on leadership roles in academia, research, industry, and healthcare. This postgraduate-level programme empowers professionals to contribute to innovation, shape policy, and advance practices in the field of nutraceuticals and functional foods at both national and international levels.
Course Overview
Qualification Title
LICQual Level 7 Postgraduate Diploma in Nutraceuticals and Functional Foods (PgD Nutraceuticals)
Total Units
6
Total Credits
120
GLH
600
Qualification #
LICQ2201123
Qualification Specification
To enroll in the LICQual Level 7 Postgraduate Diploma in Nutraceuticals and Functional Foods (PgD Nutraceuticals), applicants must meet the following criteria:
|
Qualification# |
Unit Title |
Credits |
GLH |
|---|---|---|---|
|
LICQ2201123-1 |
Advanced Principles of Nutraceuticals and Functional Foods |
20 |
100 |
|
LICQ2201123-2 |
Biochemistry and Metabolism of Bioactive Compounds |
20 |
100 |
|
LICQ2201123-3 |
Food Safety, Quality, and Regulatory Frameworks |
20 |
100 |
|
LICQ2201123-4 |
Research Methods in Nutraceuticals and Functional Foods |
20 |
100 |
|
LICQ2201123-5 |
Public Health, Nutrition, and Functional Food Applications |
20 |
100 |
|
LICQ2201123-6 |
Innovation, Product Development, and Professional Practice |
20 |
100 |
By the end of this course, learners will be able to:
1. Advanced Principles of Nutraceuticals and Functional Foods
Learners will be able to:
- Critically evaluate the definitions, classifications, and applications of nutraceuticals and functional foods.
- Analyse the role of bioactive compounds in promoting health and preventing disease.
- Assess global trends, innovations, and challenges within the nutraceutical and functional food markets.
2. Biochemistry and Metabolism of Bioactive Compounds
Learners will be able to:
- Demonstrate advanced knowledge of biochemical pathways linked to nutraceuticals and functional foods.
- Evaluate the absorption, metabolism, and bioavailability of key bioactive ingredients.
- Assess the health benefits of phytochemicals, probiotics, and other bioactive compounds in clinical and nutritional contexts.
3. Food Safety, Quality, and Regulatory Frameworks
Learners will be able to:
- Apply international food safety and quality assurance principles to nutraceutical and functional food industries.
- Conduct advanced risk assessments for compliance and consumer protection.
- Critically evaluate global regulatory frameworks, labelling standards, and ethical considerations.
4. Research Methods in Nutraceuticals and Functional Foods
Learners will be able to:
- Critically analyse qualitative and quantitative research methodologies in nutrition and food sciences.
- Apply advanced statistical and data analysis techniques to evaluate research outcomes.
- Design, conduct, and present independent postgraduate-level research projects in nutraceuticals and functional foods.
5. Public Health, Nutrition, and Functional Food Applications
Learners will be able to:
- Examine the role of nutraceuticals and functional foods in addressing public health challenges.
- Develop evidence-based strategies to tackle malnutrition, obesity, and chronic diseases.
- Evaluate sustainable nutrition solutions through innovative functional food applications.
6. Innovation, Product Development, and Professional Practice
Learners will be able to:
- Critically assess emerging innovations in functional food product development.
- Integrate advanced technologies and personalised nutrition approaches into professional practice.
- Demonstrate leadership, ethical decision-making, and professional responsibility within the nutraceutical and functional food industries.
LICQual Level 7 Postgraduate Diploma in Nutraceuticals and Functional Foods (PgD Nutraceuticals) is ideal for professionals and graduates who want to specialize in nutraceuticals, functional foods, and advanced nutrition science. It is designed for those looking to enhance their career, develop practical expertise, and make a meaningful impact in the health, wellness, and food industries.
Nutritionists and Dietitians
- Strengthen expertise in functional foods and bioactive compounds
- Design personalized nutraceutical interventions for clients
- Implement evidence-based nutrition strategies in practice
- Enhance skills in dietary planning and wellness programs
- Improve employability in clinical, community, and private nutrition sectors
- Stay updated with global nutritional guidelines and research
Food Scientists and Technologists
- Develop skills in nutraceutical product development and formulation
- Analyze functional ingredients for quality and safety
- Ensure compliance with food regulations and international standards
- Innovate new health-focused food products for the market
- Apply research insights to real-world food industry projects
- Gain expertise in functional foods to boost professional credibility
Healthcare Professionals
- Integrate functional foods into patient care plans
- Advise clients on nutraceuticals for disease prevention and wellness
- Enhance understanding of dietary supplements and bioactive compounds
- Improve patient outcomes with science-based nutrition interventions
- Strengthen your profile in clinical and preventive health sectors
- Apply practical knowledge for community health programs
Food Industry Professionals
- Work on functional food innovation and market-ready products
- Understand consumer trends for health-conscious products
- Improve product compliance with international regulations
- Enhance marketing strategies for nutraceuticals
- Build credibility as a certified functional foods specialist
- Lead projects that bridge science and industry application
Entrepreneurs and Business Leaders
- Launch or expand a nutraceutical or functional food business
- Evaluate market potential for health-focused products
- Apply scientific knowledge to product development and quality control
- Enhance brand reputation with certified expertise
- Create innovative solutions for health-conscious consumers
- Strengthen business decision-making with evidence-based insights
Graduates Seeking Career Specialization
- Gain practical skills that are directly applicable in the workplace
- Increase employability in nutrition, health, and food sectors
- Build professional credibility without pursuing further degrees
- Apply advanced knowledge to real-world health and wellness roles
- Stand out as a certified expert in nutraceuticals and functional foods
- Access opportunities in healthcare, research, and food industry roles
Centres delivering the LICQual Level 7 Postgraduate Diploma in Nutraceuticals and Functional Foods (PgD Nutraceuticals) must ensure the highest standards of delivery, resources, and learner support. To achieve this, centres are required to provide:
- Qualified and Experienced Staff – Trainers, assessors, and academic staff must hold relevant postgraduate qualifications in nutrition, food science, life sciences, or related fields, alongside professional expertise in nutraceuticals and functional foods.
- Comprehensive Learning Resources – Access to updated academic materials, research journals, case studies, and digital platforms to support postgraduate-level learning and independent research.
- Appropriate Learning Environment – Well-equipped classrooms, laboratories (where required), and reliable online platforms to accommodate blended and distance learning options.
- Effective Assessment and Quality Systems – Transparent systems for monitoring learner progress, conducting fair assessments, and ensuring compliance with international academic standards.
- Learner Support Services – Centres must provide academic mentoring, research guidance, and professional development support to ensure learner success.
- Commitment to Quality Assurance – Continuous staff development, internal verification processes, and adherence to LICQual’s quality assurance standards to maintain excellence in delivery.
By fulfilling these centre requirements, institutions guarantee that learners pursuing the LICQual Level 7 Postgraduate Diploma in Nutraceuticals and Functional Foods receive a world-class learning experience, equipping them with the knowledge and skills needed for success in this rapidly growing field.
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.
