The QualCert Level 7 Postgraduate Diploma in Nutritional Epidemiology and Research (PgD Nutritional Epidemiology and Research) is an advanced qualification designed to develop expertise in the study of nutrition-related health outcomes, population research, and evidence-based practice. This programme equips learners with the critical skills to analyse dietary patterns, assess public health risks, and conduct high-quality research that informs nutritional guidelines and health policies.
Aimed at professionals who wish to expand their knowledge, strengthen their research capabilities, and advance their careers, this postgraduate diploma combines theoretical understanding with practical application. Learners will explore advanced topics such as epidemiological methods, biostatistics, nutritional data analysis, and the role of nutrition in disease prevention and management. The course also emphasises research design, ethical considerations, and the application of scientific findings in real-world contexts.
QualCert Level 7 Postgraduate Diploma in Nutritional Epidemiology and Research (PgD Nutritional Epidemiology and Research) is particularly suited for those committed to Continuing Professional Development (CPD), including nutritionists, dietitians, healthcare professionals, public health specialists, and researchers seeking to specialise in nutritional epidemiology. By completing this programme, learners will be able to critically evaluate scientific literature, design robust research studies, and contribute to advancing knowledge in the field of nutrition and health.
Centres delivering this qualification must ensure that competent and qualified staff deliver the programme and that all necessary learning materials, research resources, and facilities are available to support high-quality teaching and learner success. This guarantees that every learner receives a rigorous, structured, and engaging educational experience that directly supports their professional growth and career development.
Course Contents of QualCert Level 7 Postgraduate Diploma in Nutritional Epidemiology and Research (PgD Nutritional Epidemiology and Research):
The QualCert Level 7 Postgraduate Diploma in Nutritional Epidemiology and Research (PgD Nutritional Epidemiology and Research), 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 |
| QC29118- 1 | Advanced Principles of Nutritional Epidemiology | 20 | 100 | 200 |
| QC29118-2 | Biostatistics and Data Analysis in Nutrition Research | 20 | 100 | 200 |
| QC29118-3 | Dietary Assessment Methods and Nutritional Surveillance | 20 | 100 | 200 |
| QC29118-4 | Nutrition, Disease, and Public Health Outcomes | 20 | 100 | 200 |
| QC29118-5 | Research Ethics, Professional Practice, and Governance | 20 | 100 | 200 |
| QC29118-6 | Independent Research Project in Nutritional Epidemiology | 20 | 100 | 200 |
Entry Requirements for the QualCert Level 7 Postgraduate Diploma in Nutritional Epidemiology and Research (PgD Nutritional Epidemiology and Research):
Minimum Age:
- Learners must be 21 years or older at the start of the course.
Educational Background:
- A recognised undergraduate degree or equivalent qualification in nutrition, dietetics, public health, health sciences, epidemiology, biostatistics, or a related discipline is required. Applicants with alternative academic backgrounds may be considered if supported by relevant research or professional experience.
Professional Experience:
- Learners should ideally have practical experience in nutrition, healthcare, public health, or research, enabling them to apply advanced learning effectively within their professional context.
Language Proficiency:
- As this qualification is delivered in English, learners must demonstrate a strong command of written and spoken English. Non-native speakers may need to provide evidence of proficiency through a recognised language qualification or equivalent workplace communication skills.
Commitment to CPD:
Applicants must show clear commitment to Continuing Professional Development (CPD), as this programme is designed to advance research, analytical skills, and professional expertise.
Access to Required Resources:
Learners must have access to a suitable study environment, digital tools, research databases, and reliable internet in order to complete assignments, data analysis, and independent study effectively.
Learning Outcomes for the QualCert Level 7 Postgraduate Diploma in Nutritional Epidemiology and Research (PgD Nutritional Epidemiology and Research):
Advanced Principles of Nutritional Epidemiology
- Analyse core concepts and methods in nutritional epidemiology
- Evaluate associations between diet, nutrition, and disease in populations
- Apply epidemiological frameworks to investigate nutritional health outcomes
- Critically assess global and national nutrition surveillance systems
Biostatistics and Data Analysis in Nutrition Research
- Apply advanced biostatistical techniques to nutritional data
- Interpret results from large and complex datasets with accuracy
- Use appropriate statistical software for data management and analysis
- Critically evaluate statistical evidence to support scientific conclusions
Dietary Assessment Methods and Nutritional Surveillance
- Examine dietary assessment tools and their application in research
- Evaluate the strengths and limitations of dietary intake measurement methods
- Interpret findings from national and international nutritional surveillance systems
- Apply dietary assessment outcomes to inform public health strategies
Nutrition, Disease, and Public Health Outcomes
- Investigate the relationship between diet, nutrition, and chronic disease prevention
- Critically assess epidemiological evidence on nutrition-related health risks
- Evaluate the impact of nutrition-based public health interventions
- Translate research findings into recommendations for health policy and practice
Research Ethics, Professional Practice, and Governance
- Demonstrate ethical responsibility and integrity in nutritional research
- Address ethical challenges in study design, data collection, and reporting
- Apply governance and compliance frameworks in nutrition research projects
- Reflect on professional practice and the role of CPD in research careers
Independent Research Project in Nutritional Epidemiology
- Design and conduct an independent research project in nutritional epidemiology
- Apply advanced research methods, including statistical analysis and critical evaluation
- Critically appraise scientific literature to strengthen project outcomes
- Present research findings in a professional format for academic or public health use
The Course is ideal for :
This postgraduate diploma is designed for professionals and researchers who want to advance their expertise in nutritional epidemiology and evidence-based practice. It is especially suitable for:
- Nutritionists and dietitians aiming to specialise in population-based nutrition research
- Public health professionals seeking to design and evaluate nutrition-related interventions
- Healthcare practitioners interested in understanding the links between diet, disease, and health outcomes
- Researchers and academics wishing to develop advanced skills in epidemiology, biostatistics, and nutritional data analysis
- Policy makers and health advisors working on evidence-based nutrition strategies and guidelines
- Graduates in health sciences who wish to progress into advanced research or doctoral-level study
- Professionals committed to CPD who want to enhance their research expertise and career opportunities in nutrition and health
Centres approved to deliver this qualification must ensure:
- All teaching staff are appropriately qualified, experienced, and competent in nutritional epidemiology, public health, and research methods
- Access to relevant learning resources, including current research publications, academic journals, statistical software, and digital tools
- Suitable teaching and learning facilities for classroom-based, blended, or online delivery
- A clear and effective quality assurance system to maintain academic standards, assessment integrity, and learner support
- Provision of academic guidance, tutorial support, and constructive feedback throughout the programme
- Accurate and secure learner records covering assessments, progress, and certification
- Resources to support independent research projects, including access to research databases and supervision by qualified staff
- Full compliance with awarding body policies and requirements, ensuring the delivery of high-quality training and learner success