The QualCert Level 6 Diploma in Clinical Nutrition (Dip CN) is a specialist qualification designed for healthcare professionals seeking to advance their expertise in nutrition science and its application in clinical practice. This diploma is specifically aimed at experienced practitioners who wish to expand their knowledge, enhance their clinical skills, and strengthen their career prospects. It is not intended for fresh learners.
Clinical nutrition plays a critical role in supporting patient health, managing chronic conditions, and promoting recovery across a variety of medical contexts. Through this diploma, learners will develop an in-depth understanding of nutritional assessment, therapeutic interventions, diet planning, and evidence-based management strategies for patients with complex healthcare needs.
The programme is designed to support professionals committed to Continuing Professional Development (CPD), ensuring they remain at the forefront of best practices and emerging research in clinical nutrition. Learners completing this qualification will gain the confidence and skills to make informed, patient-centred decisions, optimise nutritional care, and contribute to multidisciplinary healthcare teams.
Centres delivering the Level 6 Diploma in Clinical Nutrition must uphold the highest standards of teaching and learning. This includes employing competent and qualified staff with relevant clinical and academic experience, and providing access to comprehensive learning materials, practical resources, and structured support. By meeting these requirements, centres ensure learners are equipped with the knowledge, practical skills, and professional insight needed to succeed in advanced clinical nutrition practice.
This qualification provides an excellent opportunity for healthcare professionals to progress in their careers, enhance patient outcomes, and demonstrate expertise in the evolving field of clinical nutrition.
Course Contents of QualCert Level 6 Diploma in Clinical Nutrition (Dip CN):
The QualCert Level 6 Diploma in Clinical Nutrition (Dip CN) consists of a structured set of study units designed to provide learners with in-depth and comprehensive knowledge. The qualification includes a total of 1200 Total Qualification Time (TQT), 600 Guided Learning Hours (GLH), and awards 120 credits.
| Unit Ref# | Unit Title | Credits | GLH | TQT |
| QC27190- 1 | Advanced Human Nutrition, Physiology, and Metabolism | 20 | 100 | 200 |
| QC27190-2 | Nutritional Assessment, Monitoring, and Clinical Investigations | 20 | 100 | 200 |
| QC27190-3 | Clinical Management of Nutritional Disorders and Chronic Conditions | 20 | 100 | 200 |
| QC27190-4 | Therapeutic Interventions, Dietary Planning, and Nutraceutical Applications | 20 | 100 | 200 |
| QC27190-5 | Research, Evidence-Based Practice, and Clinical Decision-Making in Nutrition | 20 | 100 | 200 |
| QC27190-6 | Professional Practice, Ethics, and Leadership in Clinical Nutrition | 20 | 100 | 200 |
Entry Requirements for the QualCert Level 6 Diploma in Clinical Nutrition (Dip CN):
Minimum Age
Learners must be at least 21 years old at the time of enrolment, reflecting the maturity and professional experience required for this level.
Educational Background
Applicants should hold a recognised Level 5 qualification or equivalent in nutrition, dietetics, healthcare, biomedical sciences, or a related discipline. Candidates with postgraduate study or advanced professional certifications will also be considered.
Professional Experience
This diploma is intended for experienced professionals. Learners should have relevant clinical or practical experience in nutrition, dietetics, healthcare, or medical support services, enabling them to apply theoretical knowledge effectively.
Language Proficiency
As the programme is delivered in English, learners must demonstrate strong written and spoken communication skills. Non-native speakers should provide evidence of English proficiency equivalent to IELTS 6.0 or higher, or an equivalent qualification.
Commitment to Continuing Professional Development (CPD)
Learners should demonstrate a commitment to CPD, showing motivation to enhance their clinical skills, knowledge, and professional leadership in the field of clinical nutrition.
Access to Required Resources
Learners must have access to appropriate study resources, including academic texts, research materials, digital tools, and, where applicable, clinical practice environments to support applied learning and assessments.
Learning Outcomes for the QualCert Level 6 Diploma in Clinical Nutrition (Dip CN):
Advanced Human Nutrition, Physiology, and Metabolism
- Analyse the structure, function, and metabolic pathways of nutrients in the human body
- Evaluate the physiological mechanisms that regulate energy balance and nutrient utilisation
- Explain the role of macro- and micronutrients in health, disease prevention, and recovery
- Apply advanced nutritional knowledge to assess metabolic and physiological impacts on patient health
Nutritional Assessment, Monitoring, and Clinical Investigations
- Demonstrate understanding of methods for assessing nutritional status and dietary intake
- Interpret clinical, biochemical, and anthropometric data to identify nutritional deficiencies or excesses
- Apply monitoring strategies to track patient progress and adapt care plans accordingly
- Integrate assessment findings to support evidence-based clinical decision-making
Clinical Management of Nutritional Disorders and Chronic Conditions
- Develop management plans for acute and chronic nutritional disorders, including obesity, diabetes, and malnutrition
- Evaluate multidisciplinary approaches to optimise patient outcomes in clinical nutrition
- Apply clinical guidelines to manage complex or co-morbid nutritional conditions
- Incorporate patient-centred strategies to support lifestyle modification and long-term health
Therapeutic Interventions, Dietary Planning, and Nutraceutical Applications
- Analyse therapeutic dietary interventions and their effectiveness in managing clinical conditions
- Design personalised dietary plans and nutrition programmes for diverse patient populations
- Evaluate the role of nutraceuticals and functional foods in clinical practice
- Apply safe, evidence-based strategies for implementing nutritional therapies
Research, Evidence-Based Practice, and Clinical Decision-Making in Nutrition
- Critically appraise research studies and evidence in clinical nutrition
- Apply evidence-based principles to inform nutritional interventions and treatment plans
- Develop skills to conduct or evaluate nutrition-related research projects
- Integrate clinical expertise with research evidence to improve patient care and outcomes
Professional Practice, Ethics, and Leadership in Clinical Nutrition
- Demonstrate professional and ethical responsibility in clinical nutrition practice
- Apply leadership and management skills within multidisciplinary healthcare teams
- Evaluate ethical dilemmas and implement appropriate solutions in nutritional care
- Develop communication, teamwork, and leadership competencies to enhance patient care and service delivery
The QualCert Level 6 Diploma in Clinical Nutrition (Dip CN) is designed for experienced healthcare professionals who wish to deepen their expertise in nutrition science and its application in clinical practice. This qualification is not intended for fresh learners but for practitioners seeking to enhance their knowledge, develop advanced clinical skills, and expand their professional opportunities.
This diploma is particularly suitable for:
- Registered dietitians, nutritionists, and clinical practitioners specialising in dietary care
- Medical doctors, nurses, and allied health professionals involved in patient nutrition management
- Healthcare professionals working with chronic diseases, metabolic disorders, or hospitalised patients requiring nutritional support
- Practitioners committed to Continuing Professional Development (CPD) and aiming to progress to leadership or specialist roles in clinical nutrition
- Professionals seeking to apply evidence-based nutrition strategies to improve patient outcomes and service delivery
By completing this diploma, learners will gain advanced competencies in nutritional assessment, therapeutic interventions, research application, and professional leadership, enabling them to contribute effectively to multidisciplinary healthcare teams and deliver high-quality, patient-centred nutritional care.
Centres delivering the QualCert Level 6 Diploma in Clinical Nutrition (Dip CN) must maintain the highest standards of teaching, resources, and learner support to ensure successful outcomes.
1. Qualified and Experienced Staff
- Centres must employ tutors, trainers, and assessors with recognised qualifications and practical experience in clinical nutrition, dietetics, or related healthcare fields.
- Staff should hold appropriate teaching and assessment credentials and demonstrate the ability to deliver advanced-level instruction.
- Internal quality assurers must be competent and experienced to maintain consistent and fair assessment practices.
2. Learning Resources and Materials
- Centres must provide access to up-to-date textbooks, clinical guidelines, research journals, and digital learning platforms relevant to clinical nutrition.
- Case studies, practical exercises, and research materials should be available to support applied learning and evidence-based practice.
3. Facilities and Infrastructure
- Centres must provide suitable classrooms, virtual learning platforms, and, where possible, simulation or clinical practice environments.
- Technology and equipment should support interactive learning, presentations, and online assessments.
- Secure systems must be in place for learner records, assessment submissions, and communication.
4. Learner Support and Guidance
- Centres must offer academic, clinical, and pastoral support, including mentoring and guidance throughout the course.
- Clear instructions for assessments, feedback, and progression must be provided.
5. Quality Assurance and Compliance
- Centres must implement robust internal quality assurance systems to ensure fairness, consistency, and adherence to QualCert policies.
- Continuous monitoring and improvement processes must be maintained to uphold high standards in teaching, assessment, and learner outcomes.
By meeting these requirements, centres ensure that learners receive comprehensive support, practical knowledge, and professional guidance to succeed in advanced clinical nutrition practice.