The QualCert Level 3 Diploma in Clinical Nutrition (Dip CN) is a specialised qualification designed for healthcare professionals and practitioners seeking advanced knowledge and skills in nutrition, dietetics, and patient care. Recognised in the UK and internationally, this diploma equips learners with the expertise required to assess, manage, and advise patients on nutritional needs to support overall health and recovery.
The Dip CN provides comprehensive training in the principles of clinical nutrition, covering human physiology, nutrient metabolism, dietary assessment, and evidence-based nutritional interventions. Participants will gain both theoretical knowledge and practical skills to provide personalised nutrition plans, support disease management, and improve patient outcomes in clinical, community, and public health settings.
The course emphasises patient-centred care, multidisciplinary collaboration, and the application of evidence-based nutrition strategies to meet the individual needs of patients in alignment with UK professional standards.
The QualCert Level 3 Diploma in Clinical Nutrition provides healthcare professionals with the essential skills and knowledge to deliver high-quality, evidence-based nutrition care. By combining theory and practical application, this diploma equips learners to make a meaningful impact on patient health and wellbeing.
Course Contents of QualCert Level 3 Diploma in Clinical Nutrition (Dip CN):
The QualCert Level 3 Diploma in Clinical Nutrition (Dip CN), offers 60 Credits, requiring a Total Qualification Time (TQT) of 300 hours, including 210 Guided Learning Hours (GLH).
| Unit Ref# | Unit Title | Credit | GLH | TQT |
| QC27147-1 | Principles of Human Nutrition | 10 | 35 | 50 |
| QC27147-2 | Nutritional Assessment and Analysis | 10 | 35 | 50 |
| QC27147-3 | Clinical Nutrition for Disease Management | 10 | 35 | 50 |
| QC27147-4 | Nutritional Interventions and Therapeutic Diets | 10 | 35 | 50 |
| QC27147-5 | Lifestyle, Public Health, and Preventive Nutrition | 10 | 35 | 50 |
| QC27147-6 | Research, Evidence-Based Practice, and Professional Skills | 10 | 35 | 50 |
Entry Requirements for the QualCert Level 3 Diploma in Clinical Nutrition (Dip CN):
To enrol on the QualCert Level 3 Diploma in Clinical Nutrition (Dip CN), learners must meet the following entry requirements:
Minimum Age
- Applicants must be at least 18 years old at the time of enrolment
Educational Background
- A relevant healthcare, medical, or science qualification is required
- Equivalent qualifications demonstrating foundational knowledge in biology, health sciences, or nutrition may also be considered
Experience
- Practical experience in healthcare, clinical, or nutrition-related settings is preferred but not mandatory
- Applicants without formal experience should demonstrate strong motivation and interest in clinical nutrition
Language Proficiency
- Proficiency in English is required for academic study and professional communication
- Applicants may need to provide evidence of English language competence, such as IELTS or equivalent, if English is not their first language
Learning Outcomes for the QualCert Level 3 Diploma in Clinical Nutrition (Dip CN):
Principles of Human Nutrition
- Understand the basic principles of human nutrition
- Identify nutrient types, functions, and dietary sources
- Recognise the role of diet in health maintenance and disease prevention
- Apply foundational nutrition knowledge to patient care
Nutritional Assessment and Analysis
- Conduct comprehensive nutritional assessments of individuals and populations
- Analyse dietary intake and identify deficiencies or excesses
- Interpret anthropometric, biochemical, and clinical data
- Develop personalised nutrition recommendations based on assessment results
Clinical Nutrition for Disease Management
- Develop nutrition plans for patients with metabolic, cardiovascular, and gastrointestinal disorders
- Apply dietary strategies to manage acute and chronic health conditions
- Monitor patient progress and adjust nutrition interventions accordingly
- Integrate clinical knowledge with patient-centred care principles
Nutritional Interventions and Therapeutic Diets
- Implement therapeutic diets safely and effectively
- Provide dietary counselling and education to patients
- Support patients in making sustainable dietary changes
- Evaluate outcomes of nutritional interventions and refine care plans
Lifestyle, Public Health, and Preventive Nutrition
- Promote healthy eating and lifestyle modifications
- Design preventive strategies to reduce risk of chronic diseases
- Educate communities and individuals on nutrition and wellness
- Advocate for public health initiatives and nutrition awareness programs
Research, Evidence-Based Practice, and Professional Skills
- Apply evidence-based practice in clinical nutrition decision-making
- Conduct research using validated methods in nutrition and healthcare
- Demonstrate professional, ethical, and patient-centred behaviour
- Develop communication, leadership, and teamwork skills in multidisciplinary settings
- Nurses, dietitians, and healthcare practitioners specialising in nutrition and dietetics
- Healthcare professionals seeking to enhance clinical knowledge and skills in nutrition
- Individuals aiming to work in hospitals, clinics, community health, or public health settings
- Professionals interested in improving patient outcomes through evidence-based nutrition management
- Anyone pursuing advanced skills in the assessment, planning, and management of nutritional care
The Centre Requirements for QualCert Level 3 Diploma in Clinical Nutrition (Dip CN):
- Centres must be accredited by QualCert or an equivalent recognised awarding organisation
- Must have qualified teaching staff with relevant healthcare or nutrition expertise and experience
- Adequate classroom and practical facilities for both theoretical and hands-on learning
- Access to clinical and laboratory resources for nutrition assessment and intervention
- Policies and procedures for learner support, assessment, and quality assurance in line with UK professional standards