The QualCert Level 7 Postgraduate Diploma in Nutritional Education and Counseling (PgD Nutritional Education) is a comprehensive, advanced qualification designed for professionals seeking to enhance their expertise in nutrition, health education, and counselling. This postgraduate diploma equips learners with the knowledge and skills to effectively assess nutritional needs, develop tailored educational programmes, and provide evidence-based counselling to individuals and communities. It is ideal for those aiming to advance their career prospects, broaden their professional knowledge, and strengthen their commitment to Continuing Professional Development (CPD).
QualCert Level 7 Postgraduate Diploma in Nutritional Education and Counseling (PgD Nutritional Education) emphasises the integration of theoretical understanding with practical application, ensuring learners can confidently deliver high-quality nutritional education and counselling in a variety of professional settings. Through this programme, learners will gain insights into advanced nutritional science, behavioural change strategies, communication skills, and the ethical considerations required for effective practice.
Centres delivering this qualification are required to maintain the highest standards of training provision. They must ensure that all teaching staff are competent, experienced, and appropriately qualified, while also providing access to the necessary materials and resources that support learner success. This focus on quality guarantees that learners receive a rigorous, structured, and engaging learning experience that directly enhances their professional competence and career development.
The QualCert Level 7 Postgraduate Diploma in Nutritional Education and Counseling (PgD Nutritional Education) is perfectly suited for healthcare professionals, nutritionists, dietitians, and educators who wish to deepen their knowledge, improve client outcomes, and make a meaningful impact in the field of nutritional education and counselling.
Course Contents of QualCert Level 7 Postgraduate Diploma in Nutritional Education and Counseling (PgD Nutritional Education):
The QualCert Level 7 Postgraduate Diploma in Nutritional Education and Counseling (PgD Nutritional Education), offers 120 Credits, requiring a Total Qualification Time (TQT) of 1200 hours, including 600 Guided Learning Hours (GLH).
| Unit Ref# | Unit Title | Credits | GLH | TQT |
| QC29116- 1 | Advanced Nutritional Science | 20 | 100 | 200 |
| QC29116-2 | Nutritional Assessment and Evaluation | 20 | 100 | 200 |
| QC29116-3 | Behavioural Change and Counselling Techniques | 20 | 100 | 200 |
| QC29116-4 | Nutritional Education Programme Design | 20 | 100 | 200 |
| QC29116-5 | Professional Practice, Ethics, and Leadership | 20 | 100 | 200 |
| QC29116-6 | Research Project in Nutritional Education and Counselling | 20 | 100 | 200 |
Entry Requirements for the QualCert Level 7 Postgraduate Diploma in Nutritional Education and Counseling (PgD Nutritional Education):
Minimum Age:
- Learners must be 21 years or older at the start of the course.
Educational Background:
- A recognised undergraduate degree or equivalent qualification in nutrition, dietetics, health sciences, education, psychology, or a related discipline is required. Applicants with other qualifications may be considered on a case-by-case basis if supported by relevant professional experience.
Experience:
- Learners are expected to have practical experience in healthcare, nutrition, education, counselling, or a related professional field to support applied learning at Level 7.
Language Proficiency:
- Since this programme is delivered in English, learners must demonstrate proficiency in the English language. For non-native speakers, this may be evidenced through recognised language qualifications or equivalent workplace communication skills.
Commitment to CPD:
Applicants should demonstrate a strong commitment to Continuing Professional Development (CPD), as this qualification is designed to enhance professional growth and career opportunities.
Access to Required Resources:
Learners must have access to a suitable learning environment, academic resources, and digital tools, including internet access, to complete assignments, research, and independent study effectively.
Learning Outcomes for the QualCert Level 7 Postgraduate Diploma in Nutritional Education and Counseling (PgD Nutritional Education):
Advanced Nutritional Science
- Analyse macro- and micronutrient metabolism at cellular and systemic levels
- Evaluate the role of nutrition in disease prevention and health promotion
- Interpret and apply scientific research to nutritional recommendations
- Assess the nutritional needs of diverse populations across different life stages
Nutritional Assessment and Evaluation
- Conduct comprehensive nutritional assessments using recognised tools
- Critically interpret anthropometric, biochemical, and dietary data
- Identify potential nutritional deficiencies, imbalances, or risks
- Develop evidence-based nutrition plans tailored to individual needs
Behavioural Change and Counselling Techniques
- Examine psychological and social factors that influence dietary behaviours
- Apply effective counselling and motivational interviewing techniques
- Design behaviour change strategies to improve dietary habits and lifestyle outcomes
- Evaluate the effectiveness of counselling interventions in practice
Nutritional Education Programme Design
- Create structured educational programmes for individuals and groups
- Integrate adult learning theories and effective teaching methodologies
- Adapt nutrition education to cultural, social, and environmental contexts
- Measure the effectiveness and impact of educational interventions
Professional Practice, Ethics, and Leadership
- Demonstrate ethical and professional responsibility in nutrition practice
- Critically address ethical dilemmas within healthcare and education settings
- Apply leadership and management strategies in nutrition and counselling contexts
- Develop reflective practice skills to support ongoing CPD and professional growth
Research Project in Nutritional Education and Counselling
- Design and conduct a research project relevant to nutrition and counselling
- Apply advanced research methods and statistical analysis techniques
- Critically appraise existing scientific literature to inform practice
- Present research findings in a professional format suitable for academic or industry use
The Course is ideal for :
This postgraduate diploma is designed for ambitious professionals who want to advance their expertise in nutritional education, counselling, and health promotion. It is particularly suitable for:
- Nutritionists and dietitians seeking to enhance their knowledge and counselling skills
- Healthcare professionals aiming to integrate nutrition and education into patient care
- Educators and trainers delivering health and nutrition programmes in schools, colleges, or community settings
- Public health specialists working on nutritional awareness and behavioural change initiatives
- Counsellors and psychologists interested in applying nutrition-focused behavioural techniques
- Health and wellness coaches who want to provide evidence-based nutrition advice and structured education programmes
- Professionals committed to Continuing Professional Development (CPD) and career progression in the field of nutrition, health, and wellbeing
Centres delivering this qualification must ensure the following:
- Employ qualified, competent, and experienced staff with relevant subject expertise in nutrition, education, and counselling
- Provide access to appropriate teaching and learning resources, including up-to-date reference materials, digital tools, and research databases
- Ensure suitable facilities for both classroom-based and online delivery, with appropriate technology for blended or distance learning
- Implement robust quality assurance systems to monitor teaching, assessment, and learner support
- Offer learners access to academic guidance, tutorial support, and feedback mechanisms throughout the programme
- Maintain secure and accurate records of learner progress, assessment outcomes, and certification
- Provide facilities and support to enable learners to complete independent research and project work
- Comply with all awarding body requirements and standards, ensuring high-quality delivery and learner success