The QualCert Level 7 Postgraduate Diploma in Gerontological Nutrition (PgD Gerontological Nutrition) is an advanced qualification designed for healthcare and nutrition professionals seeking to specialise in the nutritional care of older adults. This programme equips learners with the knowledge and skills required to assess, plan, and implement effective nutritional strategies that support healthy ageing, manage age-related conditions, and enhance quality of life in elderly populations.
Designed for professionals aiming to enhance their career prospects, expand their knowledge, and strengthen their Continuing Professional Development (CPD), this diploma covers advanced topics including age-related physiological changes, chronic disease management, nutritional assessment, dietary intervention strategies, and evidence-based practice in gerontology. Learners will develop the expertise to create personalised nutrition plans, evaluate dietary interventions, and contribute to improved health outcomes for older adults.
This qualification is ideal for dietitians, nutritionists, geriatric healthcare practitioners, researchers, and public health professionals who wish to influence the nutritional wellbeing of ageing populations. By completing this programme, learners will gain critical analytical skills, understand the complex interplay between nutrition and ageing, and apply evidence-based approaches to clinical and community settings.
Centres delivering this postgraduate diploma are required to uphold 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 to ensure 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 gerontology, clinical nutrition, and professional development, the QualCert Level 7 Postgraduate Diploma in Gerontological Nutrition offers learners an advanced pathway to specialist roles in elderly care, clinical nutrition, and public health.
Course Contents of QualCert Level 7 Postgraduate Diploma in Gerontological Nutrition (PgD Gerontological Nutrition):
The QualCert Level 7 Postgraduate Diploma in Gerontological Nutrition (PgD Gerontological 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 |
| QC29107- 1 | Advanced Physiology and Ageing | 20 | 100 | 200 |
| QC29107-2 | Nutritional Assessment and Monitoring in Older Adults | 20 | 100 | 200 |
| QC29107-3 | Clinical Management of Age-Related Conditions | 20 | 100 | 200 |
| QC29107-4 | Dietary Intervention Strategies for Healthy Ageing | 20 | 100 | 200 |
| QC29107-5 | Research Methods and Evidence-Based Practice in Gerontological Nutrition | 20 | 100 | 200 |
| QC29107-6 | Professional Practice, Ethics, and Leadership in Gerontological Nutrition | 20 | 100 | 200 |
Entry Requirements for the QualCert Level 7 Postgraduate Diploma in Gerontological Nutrition (PgD Gerontological 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, Gerontology, or related fields) is required. Equivalent international qualifications or recognised professional certifications may also be considered.
Experience:
- Prior professional or research experience in nutrition, dietetics, gerontology, or clinical practice is highly recommended to support practical application of gerontological 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 gerontological nutrition and elderly care.
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, laboratory facilities, and clinical resources is essential.
Learning Outcomes for the QualCert Level 7 Postgraduate Diploma in Gerontological Nutrition (PgD Gerontological Nutrition):
Advanced Physiology and Ageing
- Critically analyse the physiological changes associated with ageing and their impact on nutritional needs
- Evaluate the role of nutrition in maintaining health, function, and wellbeing in older adults
- Apply advanced knowledge of age-related metabolism and nutrient requirements to clinical practice
- Assess the interaction between ageing, disease processes, and dietary intake
Nutritional Assessment and Monitoring in Older Adults
- Conduct comprehensive nutritional assessments using anthropometric, biochemical, clinical, and dietary methods
- Analyse and interpret data to determine nutritional status and identify deficiencies or risks
- Monitor changes in nutritional status over time to guide intervention strategies
- Apply evidence-based assessment tools to support personalised nutrition planning
Clinical Management of Age-Related Conditions
- Evaluate nutritional strategies for managing age-related conditions such as sarcopenia, osteoporosis, cardiovascular disease, and diabetes
- Develop evidence-based dietary interventions to prevent or manage chronic diseases in older adults
- Apply clinical reasoning to assess risks, contraindications, and outcomes of nutritional interventions
- Integrate multidisciplinary approaches in managing health and nutrition in elderly populations
Dietary Intervention Strategies for Healthy Ageing
- Design personalised dietary interventions to promote healthy ageing and quality of life
- Apply behaviour change theories to improve adherence to nutritional recommendations
- Critically evaluate the effectiveness of interventions using current research and best practices
- Develop strategies to prevent malnutrition and support functional independence in older adults
Research Methods and Evidence-Based Practice in Gerontological Nutrition
- Design and conduct research studies relevant to gerontological nutrition
- Critically appraise scientific literature and apply findings to clinical practice
- Analyse research data to inform evidence-based decision-making
- Develop recommendations for nutritional care and policy based on research outcomes
Professional Practice, Ethics, and Leadership in Gerontological Nutrition
- Demonstrate ethical decision-making and professional conduct in gerontological nutrition practice
- Apply leadership and management skills to coordinate nutrition programmes and multidisciplinary teams
- Evaluate professional standards and best practices for delivering high-quality nutritional care
- Lead initiatives to improve nutritional health and wellbeing in older adult populations
The Course is ideal for :
- Dietitians, nutritionists, and healthcare professionals seeking advanced knowledge in gerontological nutrition
- Geriatric healthcare practitioners and clinical staff aiming to improve nutritional care for older adults
- Professionals working in public health, elderly care, or community nutrition who wish to influence diet-related outcomes in ageing populations
- Individuals looking to enhance their Continuing Professional Development (CPD) and career prospects in gerontology and clinical nutrition
- Practitioners aiming to lead nutrition programmes, research projects, or community initiatives for elderly populations
- Learners seeking advanced skills in nutritional assessment, intervention strategies, and evidence-based gerontological 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, case studies, clinical guidelines, and digital learning materials relevant to gerontological nutrition is essential.
- Teaching and Learning Facilities
- Centres should provide suitable 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 gerontological nutrition and elderly care.