The QualCert Level 7 Postgraduate Diploma in Clinical Oncology Nutrition (PgD Oncology Nutrition) is an advanced qualification designed for healthcare and nutrition professionals seeking specialised expertise in the nutritional management of cancer patients. This programme equips learners with the knowledge and skills required to assess, plan, and implement effective nutritional interventions that support patient care, improve treatment outcomes, and enhance quality of life for individuals affected by cancer.
Designed for professionals aiming to enhance their career prospects, expand their knowledge, and strengthen their Continuing Professional Development (CPD), this diploma covers critical topics including cancer biology, treatment-related nutritional challenges, metabolic alterations, dietary support during chemotherapy and radiotherapy, and evidence-based clinical nutrition strategies. Learners will gain the ability to evaluate patient needs, design tailored nutritional plans, and contribute to multidisciplinary oncology care teams.
This qualification is ideal for dietitians, nutritionists, oncologists, clinical practitioners, and researchers who wish to specialise in oncology nutrition. By completing this programme, learners will develop advanced analytical skills, understand the complex interplay between nutrition and cancer progression, and apply evidence-based approaches to support patient recovery, symptom management, and overall wellbeing.
Centres delivering this postgraduate diploma are required to maintain the highest standards of education. They must employ competent and qualified staff and provide learners with access to comprehensive teaching materials, up-to-date research resources, and appropriate facilities for practical and theoretical learning. This ensures a high-quality learning environment that promotes academic excellence, professional growth, and learner success.
With its strong focus on clinical oncology, nutritional management, and professional development, the QualCert Level 7 Postgraduate Diploma in Clinical Oncology Nutrition offers learners an advanced pathway to leadership and specialist roles within clinical practice, research, and oncology care.
Course Contents of QualCert Level 7 Postgraduate Diploma in Clinical Oncology Nutrition (PgD Oncology Nutrition):
The QualCert Level 7 Postgraduate Diploma in Clinical Oncology Nutrition (PgD Oncology Nutrition), 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 |
| QC29109- 1 | Advanced Cancer Biology and Pathophysiology | 20 | 100 | 200 |
| QC29109-2 | Nutritional Assessment and Monitoring in Oncology Patients | 20 | 100 | 200 |
| QC29109-3 | Metabolic Alterations and Nutritional Challenges in Cancer | 20 | 100 | 200 |
| QC29109-4 | Clinical Nutritional Interventions and Management | 20 | 100 | 200 |
| QC29109-5 | Research Methods and Evidence-Based Practice in Oncology Nutrition | 20 | 100 | 200 |
| QC29109-6 | Professional Practice, Ethics, and Leadership in Clinical Oncology Nutrition | 20 | 100 | 200 |
Entry Requirements for the QualCert Level 7 Postgraduate Diploma in Clinical Oncology Nutrition (PgD Oncology Nutrition):
Minimum Age:
- Learners must be 21 years or older at the start of the course.
Educational Background:
- A relevant Level 6 qualification (such as a Bachelor’s degree in Nutrition, Dietetics, Health Sciences, Medicine, or related fields) is required. Equivalent international qualifications or recognised professional certifications may also be considered.
Experience:
- Prior professional or clinical experience in nutrition, oncology, or healthcare practice is highly recommended to support practical application of oncology nutrition principles.
Language Proficiency:
- Learners must demonstrate proficiency in English, as all course materials, assessments, and assignments are delivered in English. This may be evidenced through prior education or an approved English language qualification.
Commitment to CPD:
Learners should be committed to ongoing professional development, seeking to expand knowledge, skills, and career opportunities in oncology nutrition and clinical practice.
Access to Required Resources:
Learners must have access to a computer or laptop with internet connectivity and relevant software to complete assignments, research projects, and online learning. Access to academic journals, professional guidelines, and clinical resources is essential.
Learning Outcomes for the QualCert Level 7 Postgraduate Diploma in Clinical Oncology Nutrition (PgD Oncology Nutrition):
Advanced Cancer Biology and Pathophysiology
- Critically analyse the biological mechanisms underlying cancer development and progression
- Evaluate the impact of tumour growth and cancer treatments on nutritional requirements
- Apply knowledge of cancer pathophysiology to inform clinical nutrition strategies
- Assess the interplay between disease processes and patient metabolism in oncology care
Nutritional Assessment and Monitoring in Oncology Patients
- Conduct comprehensive nutritional assessments using anthropometric, biochemical, clinical, and dietary methods
- Interpret assessment data to determine nutritional status and identify risk factors
- Monitor patients’ nutritional status throughout treatment and recovery
- Apply evidence-based tools to support personalised nutrition care in oncology settings
Metabolic Alterations and Nutritional Challenges in Cancer
- Analyse metabolic changes caused by cancer and its treatments, including cachexia and sarcopenia
- Evaluate the impact of treatment-related side effects on nutrient intake and status
- Develop strategies to manage nutritional challenges and optimise patient wellbeing
- Integrate clinical evidence to address complex nutrition-related issues in oncology care
Clinical Nutritional Interventions and Management
- Design personalised nutritional interventions to support treatment, recovery, and quality of life
- Apply advanced clinical reasoning to implement dietary plans during chemotherapy, radiotherapy, and surgical treatments
- Critically evaluate intervention effectiveness and adjust care plans as required
- Promote adherence and patient engagement in nutrition-based oncology care
Research Methods and Evidence-Based Practice in Oncology Nutrition
- Design and conduct research studies relevant to oncology nutrition
- Critically appraise scientific literature and apply findings to clinical practice
- Analyse data to inform evidence-based nutritional interventions
- Develop recommendations for policy or practice based on research outcomes
Professional Practice, Ethics, and Leadership in Clinical Oncology Nutrition
- Demonstrate ethical decision-making and professional conduct in oncology nutrition practice
- Apply leadership and management skills in clinical, research, and multidisciplinary team settings
- Evaluate professional standards and best practices for high-quality oncology nutrition care
- Lead initiatives to improve nutritional outcomes and support patient-centred oncology services
The Course is ideal for :
- Dietitians, nutritionists, and healthcare professionals seeking specialised knowledge in oncology nutrition
- Oncologists, clinical practitioners, and hospital-based nutrition teams aiming to improve patient care and treatment outcomes
- Professionals working in hospitals, clinics, community health, or research environments focused on cancer care
- Individuals looking to enhance their Continuing Professional Development (CPD) and career prospects in clinical nutrition and oncology
- Practitioners aiming to lead nutrition programmes, research initiatives, or multidisciplinary oncology care teams
- Learners seeking advanced skills in nutritional assessment, intervention strategies, and evidence-based oncology practice
Qualified and Competent Staff
Centres must employ experienced and qualified staff capable of delivering Level 7 postgraduate content and supporting learners in achieving academic and professional success.
Comprehensive Learning Resources
Access to up-to-date textbooks, research journals, clinical guidelines, case studies, and digital learning materials relevant to oncology nutrition is essential.
Teaching and Learning Facilities
Centres should provide appropriate classroom, seminar, laboratory, or online learning environments to support interactive study, practical exercises, and collaborative learning.
Assessment and Feedback Systems
Robust assessment procedures must be in place, including assignments, research projects, and clinical case studies, with timely and constructive feedback for learners.
Technology and IT Support
Learners should have access to computers, internet, and relevant software to complete assignments, research, and online learning efficiently.
Commitment to Quality Assurance
Centres must maintain high standards of teaching, learning, and assessment to ensure learner success and compliance with qualification requirements.
Support for Continuing Professional Development (CPD)
Centres should encourage ongoing professional development and provide guidance to support learners’ career advancement in clinical oncology nutrition and healthcare practice.