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 healthcare professionals, dietitians, nutritionists, and wellness practitioners who want to specialize in advanced nutrition, metabolism, and dietary science. This course is ideal for those aiming to enhance professional expertise, lead nutrition initiatives, and implement evidence-based interventions without pursuing further academic qualifications.
Dietitians and Nutritionists
• Dietitians developing evidence-based nutritional strategies
• Nutritionists designing personalized dietary interventions
• Professionals analyzing nutrient intake and metabolic outcomes
• Practitioners enhancing credibility in clinical nutrition
• Individuals preparing for leadership or advisory roles
• Professionals focused on career advancement and practical application
Healthcare and Clinical Professionals
• Doctors integrating nutrition science into patient care
• Nurses and allied health staff supporting dietary interventions
• Clinical practitioners managing patients with metabolic or dietary concerns
• Professionals applying advanced nutrition assessment techniques
• Practitioners aiming to optimize patient health outcomes
• Staff seeking applied knowledge in nutritional sciences
Public Health and Community Practitioners
• Public health workers implementing nutrition-focused programs
• Community health practitioners assessing population dietary needs
• NGO staff delivering evidence-based nutrition initiatives
• Program coordinators managing public health nutrition projects
• Professionals contributing to community health improvements
• Individuals aiming to promote healthier lifestyles in populations
Researchers and Applied Practitioners
• Professionals conducting applied research in nutrition and metabolism
• Practitioners evaluating dietary interventions and health outcomes
• Staff analyzing nutrition program effectiveness
• Professionals developing evidence-based nutrition strategies
• Researchers implementing interventions for chronic disease prevention
• Individuals enhancing practical research and analytical skills
Graduates Seeking Professional Development
• Health science or nutrition graduates advancing practical expertise
• Graduates pursuing careers in clinical, public health, or community nutrition
• Individuals targeting Level 7 qualification for professional growth
• Professionals transitioning into applied nutrition roles
• Learners seeking applied knowledge for workplace impact
• Individuals aiming to lead nutrition-focused initiatives
Policy Makers and Program Developers
• Policy makers creating nutrition and public health strategies
• Advisors developing sustainable health programs
• Professionals evaluating population nutrition interventions
• Staff contributing to evidence-based policy planning
• Consultants guiding community or organizational nutrition programs
• Leaders implementing impactful nutrition strategies
Career Changers and International Professionals
• Professionals transitioning into nutritional sciences careers
• Individuals seeking globally recognized Level 7 qualification
• Learners aiming to implement applied nutrition strategies
• Professionals targeting career advancement in health and nutrition
• Individuals committed to evidence-based nutrition practice
• Learners aspiring to improve health outcomes for communities
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.
