The QualCert Level 7 Postgraduate Diploma in Nutraceuticals and Functional Foods (PgD Nutraceuticals) is a cutting-edge qualification designed for professionals seeking to advance their expertise in the science and application of nutraceuticals, functional foods, and bioactive compounds. This postgraduate programme provides learners with comprehensive knowledge of the biochemical, physiological, and clinical aspects of nutraceuticals and their role in promoting health, preventing disease, and enhancing wellbeing.
Aimed at professionals who wish to enhance their career prospects, expand their scientific knowledge, and strengthen their Continuing Professional Development (CPD), this diploma equips learners with both theoretical insights and practical skills necessary for research, product development, and professional practice in the nutraceutical and functional food industries. The programme explores topics such as bioactive compounds, functional food formulation, safety regulations, clinical efficacy, and emerging trends in nutrition science.
The PgD in Nutraceuticals and Functional Foods fosters critical thinking, evidence-based practice, and independent research skills, ensuring learners are prepared to apply advanced knowledge in clinical, academic, and industry settings. Learners will gain the capability to evaluate scientific literature, develop nutraceutical interventions, and contribute to innovation in functional food development and personalised nutrition.
Centres delivering this qualification must have competent and qualified staff, supported by access to high-quality teaching resources, laboratory facilities, research tools, and digital materials. This ensures learners receive an academically rigorous and professionally relevant education, preparing them to excel in careers spanning healthcare, research, food science, nutraceutical development, and public health.
Course Contents of QualCert Level 7 Postgraduate Diploma in Nutraceuticals and Functional Foods (PgD Nutraceuticals):
TheQualCert Level 7 Postgraduate Diploma in Nutraceuticals and Functional Foods (PgD Nutraceuticals), 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 |
| QC29125- 1 | Advanced Nutraceutical Science | 20 | 100 | 200 |
| QC29125-2 | Functional Foods and Bioactive Compounds | 20 | 100 | 200 |
| QC29125-3 | Clinical Applications of Nutraceuticals | 20 | 100 | 200 |
| QC29125-4 | Safety, Regulation and Quality in Nutraceuticals | 20 | 100 | 200 |
| QC29125-5 | Research Methods and Evidence-Based Practice in Nutraceuticals | 20 | 100 | 200 |
| QC29125-6 | Dissertation / Applied Research Project in Nutraceuticals | 20 | 100 | 200 |
Entry Requirements for the QualCert Level 7 Postgraduate Diploma in Nutraceuticals and Functional Foods (PgD Nutraceuticals):
Minimum Age:
- Learners must be at least 21 years old at the start of the programme.
Educational Background:
- A recognised undergraduate degree in nutrition, dietetics, health sciences, food science, biomedical sciences, or a closely related discipline is required.
Applicants with equivalent professional qualifications or substantial relevant experience may also be considered.
Professional Experience:
- Relevant professional experience in nutrition, healthcare, food science, or research is desirable.
Candidates with substantial professional practice but without formal academic qualifications may be accepted following a detailed review.
Language Proficiency:
- Learners must demonstrate proficiency in English for academic study and professional communication.
Non-native English speakers may need to provide recognised evidence, such as an IELTS score of 6.5 or equivalent.
Commitment to CPD:
Learners should demonstrate a commitment to lifelong learning and CPD, aiming to enhance knowledge and professional practice in nutraceuticals and functional foods.
Access to Required Resources:
- Learners must have access to a reliable computer or laptop, internet connection, and relevant academic resources for research, assignments, and applied learning.
Access to laboratory facilities or professional settings may be required for practical components of the programme.
Learning Outcomes for the QualCert Level 7 Postgraduate Diploma in Nutraceuticals and Functional Foods (PgD Nutraceuticals):
Advanced Nutraceutical Science
- Critically evaluate the biochemical and physiological mechanisms of nutraceuticals
- Examine the role of nutrients and bioactive compounds in health maintenance and disease prevention
- Analyse current research and emerging trends in nutraceutical science
- Apply scientific knowledge to develop evidence-based nutraceutical strategies
Functional Foods and Bioactive Compounds
- Understand functional food formulation and design principles
- Assess the effects of bioactive compounds on physiological and metabolic processes
- Evaluate innovations in functional foods and their potential health benefits
- Apply knowledge to create evidence-based functional food interventions
Clinical Applications of Nutraceuticals
- Apply evidence-based nutraceutical strategies in clinical and community settings
- Critically evaluate clinical studies and trials assessing nutraceutical efficacy
- Develop dietary interventions targeting specific health conditions
- Integrate nutraceutical approaches into personalised nutrition plans
Safety, Regulation and Quality in Nutraceuticals
- Examine regulatory frameworks governing nutraceuticals and functional foods
- Assess quality control, safety standards, and ethical considerations
- Apply compliance standards to product development and professional practice
- Critically evaluate risk management and safety assessment strategies
Research Methods and Evidence-Based Practice in Nutraceuticals
- Apply advanced qualitative and quantitative research methods in nutraceutical science
- Critically appraise scientific literature and clinical evidence
- Design and conduct ethical research studies in nutraceuticals and functional foods
- Present and interpret research findings to support evidence-based practice
Dissertation / Applied Research Project in Nutraceuticals
- Conduct independent, postgraduate-level research in nutraceuticals or functional foods
- Analyse and interpret complex data to support scientific conclusions
- Develop actionable recommendations for practice, policy, or further research
- Demonstrate advanced academic writing, critical thinking, and research skills
The Course is ideal for :
- Nutritionists, dietitians, and healthcare professionals seeking advanced knowledge in nutraceuticals and functional foods
- Food scientists and industry professionals involved in product development, quality assurance, and innovation
- Researchers and academics pursuing postgraduate-level expertise in nutrition science and functional foods
- Clinicians and allied health practitioners aiming to integrate evidence-based nutraceutical interventions into practice
- Public health and community health professionals interested in promoting health through functional nutrition
- Graduates in life sciences, biomedical sciences, or health-related fields wishing to specialise in nutraceuticals and bioactive compounds
- Learners committed to Continuing Professional Development (CPD) and advancing their professional career prospects in nutrition and health-related industries
- Centres must employ qualified and experienced staff with expertise in nutraceuticals, functional foods, nutrition, and health sciences at Level 7 or above.
- Tutors and assessors should hold relevant academic and professional qualifications and demonstrate competence in delivering postgraduate-level nutrition education.
- Centres must provide access to up-to-date learning resources, scientific journals, research databases, and case studies to support learner success.
- Adequate IT facilities, online learning platforms, and laboratory or practical resources must be available for effective teaching and applied learning.
- Centres must maintain robust internal quality assurance processes to ensure the integrity of teaching, learning, and assessment.
- Learning delivery should take place in a supportive, inclusive, and safe environment that caters to diverse learner needs.
- Centres should facilitate practical learning and research opportunities, allowing learners to apply knowledge in professional or laboratory settings.
- Centres are required to comply with awarding body policies and regulatory requirements, ensuring consistent standards in teaching and assessment.
- Adequate learner support services, including mentoring, feedback, and academic guidance, must be provided throughout the programme.