QualCert Level 6 Diploma in Nutritional Psychology (Dip Nutritional Psychology)

The QualCert Level 6 Diploma in Nutritional Psychology (Dip Nutritional Psychology) is an advanced qualification designed for professionals who wish to explore the intersection of nutrition, mental health, and human behaviour. This diploma is ideal for learners seeking to enhance their career prospects, expand their knowledge, and strengthen their Continuing Professional Development (CPD). By integrating principles of psychology with evidence-based nutritional strategies, learners develop the skills needed to support clients’ mental wellbeing, optimise cognitive function, and promote overall health through dietary interventions.

Learners will gain a deep understanding of how nutrition influences mood, behaviour, and cognitive performance. The course covers topics such as nutritional neuroscience, emotional eating, behaviour change strategies, and the psychological factors that affect dietary choices. Emphasis is placed on practical application, critical thinking, and ethical practice, enabling learners to work confidently in clinical, wellness, and research settings. Advanced modules equip learners to assess nutritional and psychological needs, develop personalised interventions, and evaluate the effectiveness of strategies for improved client outcomes.

Centres delivering the QualCert Level 6 Diploma in Nutritional Psychology are required to maintain the highest standards of teaching and learning. This includes employing competent and qualified staff, providing access to current learning materials, and ensuring all necessary resources are available to support learner success. By adhering to these standards, centres create an environment where learners can achieve their professional goals and develop recognised expertise in the emerging field of nutritional psychology.

Whether you are a healthcare professional, nutritionist, wellness practitioner, or aspiring nutritional psychologist, this diploma provides the advanced knowledge, practical skills, and professional recognition needed to advance your career and make a meaningful impact in the field of mental health and nutrition.

Course Contents of QualCert Level 6 Diploma in Nutritional Psychology (Dip Nutritional Psychology):

The QualCert Level 6 Diploma in Nutritional Psychology (Dip Nutritional Psychology), 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 TitleCreditsGLHTQT
QC29083- 1Foundations of Nutritional Psychology20100200
QC29083-2Behavioural Science and Eating Patterns20100200
QC29083-3Nutritional Neuroscience and Cognitive Function20100200
QC29083-4Clinical Applications in Nutritional Psychology20100200
QC29083-5Research Methods and Evidence-Based Practice20100200
QC29083-6Professional Practice, Ethics, and Leadership20100200

Entry Requirements for the QualCert Level 6 Diploma in Nutritional Psychology (Dip Nutritional Psychology):

Minimum Age:

  • Learners must be at least 18 years old at the time of registration.

Educational Background:

  • Applicants should ideally hold a Level 5 qualification in Nutrition, Psychology, Health Sciences, or a related field.
  • Learners with relevant professional experience in nutrition, mental health, or allied healthcare may also be considered.

Experience:

  • A minimum of 2 years’ practical experience in nutrition, counselling, clinical practice, or psychological support roles is recommended.
  • Experience in wellness programmes, behavioural interventions, or therapeutic nutrition is advantageous.

Language Proficiency:

  • Learners must have proficient English language skills, including reading, writing, and comprehension, to successfully complete assignments and assessments.
  • Equivalent qualifications or professional experience in English-speaking environments may be accepted.

Commitment to CPD:

  • Learners should be willing to actively engage in CPD, including completing assignments, participating in practical exercises, and applying knowledge to professional practice.

Access to Required Resources:

  • Learners must have reliable internet access, a computer or tablet, and necessary software for research, assignments, and online learning.
  • Access to nutritional assessment tools, psychological assessment resources, and relevant reference materials is recommended for practical application.

Learning Outcomes for the QualCert Level 6 Diploma in Nutritional Psychology (Dip Nutritional Psychology):

Foundations of Nutritional Psychology

  • Demonstrate understanding of the principles and scientific basis of nutritional psychology
  • Analyse the relationship between nutrition, mood, and cognitive function
  • Evaluate the impact of diet on mental health and behavioural patterns
  • Apply psychological theories to influence dietary choices effectively

Behavioural Science and Eating Patterns

  • Examine psychological and behavioural factors influencing eating habits
  • Identify and address emotional eating, compulsive eating, and disordered patterns
  • Apply behaviour change theories and motivational strategies to support positive dietary behaviours
  • Assess environmental and social influences on nutrition and wellbeing

Nutritional Neuroscience and Cognitive Function

  • Understand how nutrients affect brain structure, function, and neurochemistry
  • Analyse the role of diet in memory, focus, and cognitive performance
  • Evaluate the effects of micronutrients, fatty acids, and bioactive compounds on brain health
  • Apply neuroscience principles to practical interventions for clients

Clinical Applications in Nutritional Psychology

  • Conduct comprehensive assessments of clients’ nutritional and psychological needs
  • Develop personalised nutrition and behavioural intervention plans
  • Implement strategies to support mental health through dietary modification
  • Integrate multidisciplinary approaches to optimise client wellbeing

Research Methods and Evidence-Based Practice

  • Critically appraise scientific literature in nutritional psychology
  • Design and conduct small-scale research projects or audits
  • Apply evidence-based findings to improve client interventions and outcomes
  • Present research results effectively to professional audiences

Professional Practice, Ethics, and Leadership

  • Demonstrate ethical and professional standards in nutritional psychology practice
  • Engage in reflective practice and continuous professional development (CPD)
  • Develop leadership, communication, and client management skills
  • Ensure safe, effective, and client-centred professional practice

To deliver the QualCert Level 6 Diploma in Nutritional Psychology, centres must meet the following requirements:

  • Accreditation and Approval: Must be an approved QualCert centre with valid accreditation to deliver Level 6 qualifications.
  • Qualified Staff: Employ competent and qualified trainers and assessors with expertise in nutrition, psychology, mental health, or related healthcare fields.
  • Teaching Facilities: Provide access to suitable classrooms, laboratories, or online learning platforms that support interactive and practical teaching.
  • Learning Resources: Ensure access to up-to-date course materials, research journals, nutritional and psychological assessment tools, and reference resources.
  • Assessment Facilities: Maintain facilities to conduct assessments, practical evaluations, and examinations in a controlled environment.
  • Health and Safety Compliance: Comply with local health and safety regulations, including requirements for practical or clinical learning.
  • Technology and IT Support: Provide learners with access to computers, reliable internet, and necessary software for assignments, research, and virtual learning.
  • Student Support Services: Offer academic guidance, mentoring, and learner support throughout the course.
  • Record Keeping: Maintain accurate records of learner enrolment, attendance, progress, and assessment outcomes for quality assurance and auditing purposes.
  • Continuous Staff Development: Trainers and assessors should engage in ongoing professional development to stay current with best practices in nutritional psychology, nutrition, and mental health fields.
  • must be an approved QualCert centre with valid accreditation to deliver Level 6 qualifications
  • employ competent and qualified trainers and assessors with expertise in nutrition, psychology, mental health, or related healthcare fields
  • provide access to suitable classrooms, laboratories, or online learning platforms that support interactive and practical teaching
  • ensure access to up-to-date course materials, research journals, nutritional and psychological assessment tools, and reference resources
  • maintain facilities to conduct assessments, practical evaluations, and examinations in a controlled environment
  • comply with local health and safety regulations, including requirements for practical or clinical learning
  • provide learners with access to computers, reliable internet, and necessary software for assignments, research, and virtual learning
  • offer academic guidance, mentoring, and learner support throughout the course
  • maintain accurate records of learner enrolment, attendance, progress, and assessment outcomes for quality assurance and auditing purposes
  • ensure trainers and assessors engage in ongoing professional development to stay current with best practices in nutritional psychology, nutrition, and mental health fields