The QualCert Level 7 Postgraduate Diploma in Food Safety and Nutrition (PgD Food Safety) is a prestigious qualification designed for professionals aiming to advance their careers in the food, nutrition, and public health sectors. This programme provides learners with an in-depth understanding of advanced food safety principles, nutritional science, and regulatory frameworks, equipping them with the knowledge and skills necessary to make informed decisions in complex professional environments.
This Level 7 postgraduate diploma is ideal for those seeking to expand their expertise, enhance their career prospects, and actively contribute to Continuing Professional Development (CPD). Learners will explore critical topics such as risk assessment, microbiology, foodborne illnesses, nutrition policy, and best practices in food safety management, all delivered through a rigorous, research-informed curriculum.
QualCert ensures that centres delivering this qualification uphold the highest standards of education. Centres must have competent and qualified staff, alongside all required materials and resources, to provide high-quality training that supports learner achievement and success. This commitment guarantees that each learner receives practical, relevant, and comprehensive instruction, preparing them to excel in both academic and professional settings.
By completing the PgD Food Safety, learners will not only gain a recognised Level 7 postgraduate diploma but also develop the expertise to influence food safety policies, implement nutritional programmes, and lead initiatives that prioritise public health and well-being. This qualification is a strategic step for professionals who aspire to become leaders in food safety, nutrition, and health-related industries.
Course Contents of QualCert Level 7 Postgraduate Diploma in Food Safety and Nutrition (PgD Food Safety):
The QualCert Level 7 Postgraduate Diploma in Food Safety and Nutrition (PgD Food Safety), 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 |
| QC29126- 1 | Advanced Principles of Food Safety Management | 20 | 100 | 200 |
| QC29126-2 | Nutrition Science and Policy | 20 | 100 | 200 |
| QC29126-3 | Food Microbiology and Contamination Control | 20 | 100 | 200 |
| QC29126-4 | Food Law, Regulations, and Compliance | 20 | 100 | 200 |
| QC29126-5 | Advanced Risk Assessment and Crisis Management | 20 | 100 | 200 |
| QC29126-6 | Research Methods in Food Safety and Nutrition | 20 | 100 | 200 |
Entry Requirements for the QualCert Level 7 Postgraduate Diploma in Food Safety and Nutrition (PgD Food Safety):
Minimum Age:
- Learners must be at least 21 years old to enrol, ensuring a level of maturity suitable for postgraduate study.
Educational Background:
- A bachelor’s degree or equivalent in food science, nutrition, health sciences, or a related field is required. Candidates with significant professional experience in food safety or nutrition may also be considered.
Professional Experience:
- Relevant work experience in food safety, public health, nutrition, or related industries is highly recommended. This practical experience supports the application of theoretical concepts in real-world scenarios.
Language Proficiency:
- Learners must demonstrate proficiency in English (both written and spoken). This can be evidenced by previous qualifications, professional experience, or recognised English language tests such as IELTS or TOEFL.
Commitment to CPD:
Learners should show a clear commitment to ongoing professional development, reflecting the course’s focus on career enhancement and practical application of knowledge.
Access to Required Resources:
- Learners must have access to essential study resources, including:
- A reliable internet connection for online learning, research, and assessments
- Computing equipment capable of running required software for research and assignments
- Access to library resources, journals, and academic databases for research purposes
Learning Outcomes for the QualCert Level 7 Postgraduate Diploma in Food Safety and Nutrition (PgD Food Safety):
Advanced Principles of Food Safety Management
- Critically evaluate food safety risks and hazards across complex food systems
- Design and implement HACCP-based and ISO 22000-compliant food safety plans
- Analyse and apply international food safety standards and best practices
- Develop strategies to prevent contamination and ensure product integrity
- Demonstrate leadership in managing food safety within professional environments
Nutrition Science and Policy
- Assess nutritional requirements and dietary impacts on different populations
- Critically examine global nutrition policies and public health initiatives
- Develop evidence-based nutrition strategies to improve health outcomes
- Analyse the role of nutrition in disease prevention and management
- Formulate recommendations for policy, organisational practice, or community programmes
Food Microbiology and Contamination Control
- Analyse microbiological hazards and their impact on food safety
- Develop and implement effective contamination control measures
- Evaluate laboratory and field data to inform food safety decisions
- Apply microbiological principles to risk assessment and management
- Promote hygiene and safe handling practices in food production and service
Food Law, Regulations, and Compliance
- Critically appraise international and national food legislation and standards
- Ensure organisational compliance with regulatory frameworks
- Advise on legal and ethical implications of food safety breaches
- Interpret regulatory documents to support effective management decisions
- Demonstrate understanding of inspection and auditing processes in food safety
Advanced Risk Assessment and Crisis Management
- Conduct comprehensive risk assessments in complex food systems
- Develop crisis management and emergency response strategies
- Evaluate organisational preparedness for food safety incidents
- Apply risk communication strategies to stakeholders and consumers
- Integrate risk assessment findings into policy and operational decision-making
Research Methods in Food Safety and Nutrition
- Critically evaluate research methods applicable to food safety and nutrition
- Design robust research proposals, including objectives, hypotheses, and methodology
- Collect and analyse quantitative and qualitative data effectively
- Interpret research findings to inform evidence-based decisions
- Produce professional research reports adhering to academic and industry standards
- Apply ethical standards in research involving food products, populations, or laboratories
The Course is ideal for :
- Professionals working in food safety, food manufacturing, and quality assurance seeking to advance their expertise
- Nutritionists, dietitians, and public health practitioners aiming to deepen knowledge of food safety and nutrition
- Managers and supervisors responsible for compliance with food safety legislation and international standards
- Individuals aspiring to lead food safety initiatives within organisations or governmental agencies
- Researchers and academics wishing to enhance their research skills in food safety and nutritional sciences
- Professionals committed to Continuing Professional Development (CPD) and career advancement in the food, health, and nutrition sectors
- Consultants and auditors looking to specialise in risk assessment, contamination control, and food safety management
- Anyone seeking to gain a recognised Level 7 postgraduate diploma to strengthen their professional credibility and career prospects
- Must employ competent and qualified staff with relevant academic and professional experience in food safety, nutrition, and public health
- Ensure staff maintain up-to-date knowledge of industry standards, legislation, and best practices
- Provide access to all necessary teaching and learning materials, including textbooks, case studies, laboratory equipment, and online resources
- Maintain a suitable learning environment that supports both theoretical and practical instruction
- Have access to reliable internet and digital learning platforms for research, assessments, and communication
- Ensure learners have access to library resources, academic journals, and research databases
- Implement robust assessment and quality assurance systems to monitor learner progress and maintain training standards
- Promote a culture of continuous improvement, professional development, and learner support
- Comply with health, safety, and ethical standards in all practical and laboratory-based activities
- Demonstrate the ability to deliver the qualification to international standards, ensuring learners achieve the intended outcomes