The QualCert Level 6 Diploma in Clinical Oncology Nutrition (Dip Oncology Nutrition) is an advanced qualification designed for professionals seeking to specialise in nutritional care for individuals affected by cancer. This diploma provides learners with in-depth knowledge and practical skills required to support patients through all stages of cancer treatment, including prevention, management of treatment-related side effects, and survivorship.
Learners will explore essential areas such as the impact of cancer and its treatments on nutritional status, dietary strategies to optimise patient outcomes, management of malnutrition and cachexia, and evidence-based nutritional interventions. The programme also covers clinical assessment, personalised care planning, research methodologies, and ethical considerations in oncology nutrition practice. This ensures learners are equipped to apply scientific evidence in real-world clinical settings, enhancing patient care and recovery outcomes.
The qualification is ideal for dietitians, nutritionists, healthcare practitioners, oncology specialists, and other allied health professionals who wish to expand their expertise, advance their career prospects, and strengthen their Continuing Professional Development (CPD). Learners will gain the confidence and competence to design and implement tailored nutritional strategies for patients undergoing cancer treatment, promoting better clinical outcomes and quality of life.
Centres delivering this qualification must have competent and qualified staff, alongside the necessary materials, resources, and support systems to ensure high-quality training. This ensures every learner receives the knowledge, guidance, and practical experience required to succeed in the specialised field of clinical oncology nutrition.
Course Contents of QualCert Level 6 Diploma in Clinical Oncology Nutrition (Dip Oncology Nutrition):
The QualCert Level 6 Diploma in Clinical Oncology Nutrition (Dip Oncology Nutrition) 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 |
| QC29077- 1 | Foundations of Clinical Oncology Nutrition | 20 | 100 | 200 |
| QC29077-2 | Cancer Pathophysiology and Nutritional Implications | 20 | 100 | 200 |
| QC29077-3 | Nutritional Assessment and Screening in Oncology | 20 | 100 | 200 |
| QC29077-4 | Nutritional Intervention and Management Strategies | 20 | 100 | 200 |
| QC29077-5 | Research, Evidence-Based Practice and Ethical Considerations | 20 | 100 | 200 |
| QC29077-6 | Public Health, Policy, and Clinical Practice in Oncology Nutrition | 20 | 100 | 200 |
Entry Requirements for the QualCert Level 6 Diploma in Clinical Oncology Nutrition (Dip Oncology Nutrition):
Minimum Age:
- Learners must be 18 years of age or older at the time of enrolment.
Educational Background:
- Learners should ideally have a Level 5 qualification in Nutrition, Dietetics, or a related healthcare/biomedical field.
- Relevant professional experience in clinical nutrition, healthcare, or oncology-related settings can also be considered in lieu of formal qualifications.
Experience:
- A minimum of 2 years’ practical experience in clinical nutrition, oncology support, or dietetic practice is recommended to fully engage with the course content.
- Experience in patient care, dietary assessment, or nutrition planning in healthcare environments is highly advantageous.
Language Proficiency:
- Learners must demonstrate proficiency in English, including reading, writing, and comprehension, to effectively complete coursework, case studies, and assessments.
- Equivalent qualifications or professional experience in English-speaking environments may be accepted.
Commitment to CPD:
- Candidates must be willing to engage in ongoing CPD, including completing assignments, participating in discussions, and applying learned knowledge to professional practice.
Access to Required Resources:
- Learners should have reliable internet access, a computer or tablet, and basic software for research, assignments, and virtual learning.
- Access to clinical settings or case studies may be required for practical application of skills.
Learning Outcomes for the QualCert Level 6 Diploma in Clinical Oncology Nutrition (Dip Oncology Nutrition):
Advanced Principles of Clinical Oncology Nutrition
- Demonstrate comprehensive knowledge of cancer biology and its nutritional implications
- Assess the nutritional needs of oncology patients at various stages of disease
- Apply evidence-based nutritional strategies to support treatment outcomes
- Evaluate the impact of nutrition on patient recovery, immunity, and quality of life
Nutritional Assessment and Screening in Oncology
- Conduct detailed nutritional assessments using standardized tools
- Identify malnutrition risk factors and clinical complications in oncology patients
- Interpret biochemical, clinical, and anthropometric data to inform care plans
- Develop personalized nutritional intervention plans based on assessment outcomes
Therapeutic Nutrition and Intervention Strategies
- Implement advanced therapeutic nutrition interventions for oncology patients
- Design diet plans tailored to specific cancer types, treatments, and side effects
- Apply strategies for managing cachexia, treatment-related malnutrition, and metabolic challenges
- Monitor and adjust nutritional interventions for optimal patient outcomes
Oncology Nutrition Research and Evidence-Based Practice
- Critically appraise research studies relevant to oncology nutrition
- Integrate evidence-based practices into clinical decision-making
- Develop skills to design and conduct small-scale clinical nutrition research
- Present research findings effectively to professional audiences
Professional Practice and Ethics in Oncology Nutrition
- Demonstrate understanding of ethical principles in patient-centered care
- Apply professional standards, policies, and guidelines in oncology nutrition practice
- Communicate effectively with multidisciplinary teams and patients
- Reflect on professional practice to identify areas for ongoing development
Advanced Case Studies and Clinical Decision-Making
- Analyze complex clinical cases and develop appropriate nutritional management plans
- Make informed decisions using critical thinking and problem-solving skills
- Evaluate outcomes of interventions and modify care plans as needed
- Demonstrate readiness to work independently or in advanced professional roles
The QualCert Level 6 Diploma in Clinical Oncology Nutrition is designed for professionals aiming to advance their careers in oncology nutrition and clinical practice. This qualification is suitable for:
Registered Nutritionists and Dietitians
- Professionals seeking to specialize in oncology nutrition and enhance their clinical expertise
- Those aiming to apply advanced nutritional strategies in cancer care settings
- Practitioners who want to stay updated with evidence-based guidelines and best practices
Healthcare Professionals
- Oncologists, nurses, and clinical support staff interested in integrating nutrition into patient care
- Professionals involved in multidisciplinary cancer care teams seeking to broaden their skill set
- Those looking to improve patient outcomes through tailored nutritional interventions
Clinical Researchers and Academics
- Individuals pursuing research in oncology nutrition or related clinical fields
- Academics seeking to apply advanced concepts in clinical nutrition to teaching or research
- Professionals interested in developing evidence-based practice and case studies
Career Changers or Nutrition Graduates
- Graduates in nutrition, dietetics, or related healthcare fields seeking specialized oncology training
- Individuals aiming to transition into clinical oncology nutrition roles
- Those committed to enhancing their professional credentials and CPD portfolio
International Professionals
- Practitioners worldwide who want a globally recognized qualification in Clinical Oncology Nutrition
- Professionals looking to work in advanced clinical nutrition roles internationally
- Those seeking flexible learning options that accommodate professional practice
This course equips learners with advanced knowledge, practical skills, and professional recognition, preparing them for senior roles in oncology nutrition, clinical practice, and research.
To deliver the QualCert Level 6 Diploma in Clinical Oncology Nutrition, centres must meet the following requirements:
- Accreditation and Approval: Must be an approved QualCert centre with valid accreditation to offer Level 6 qualifications.
- Qualified Staff: Must employ qualified trainers and assessors with relevant expertise in clinical nutrition, oncology, or related healthcare fields.
- Teaching Facilities: Should have access to suitable classrooms or virtual learning platforms that support interactive teaching and learning.
- Learning Resources: Must provide access to up-to-date course materials, research journals, case studies, and clinical guidelines relevant to oncology nutrition.
- Assessment Facilities: Must have facilities to conduct assessments, practical evaluations, and examinations in a controlled environment.
- Health and Safety Compliance: Must comply with local health and safety regulations, including any requirements for clinical or practical training settings.
- Technology and IT Support: Should ensure learners have access to computers, internet, and software needed for research, assignments, and virtual learning.
- Student Support Services: Must provide academic guidance, mentoring, and support for learners throughout the course duration.
- Record Keeping: Maintain accurate records of learner enrolment, attendance, progress, and assessment outcomes for auditing and quality assurance purposes.
- CPD and Staff Development: Centre staff should engage in continuous professional development to maintain current knowledge in clinical oncology nutrition.