QualCert Level 7 Postgraduate Diploma in Sports Nutrition (PgD Sports Nutrition)

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QualCert Level 7 Postgraduate Diploma in Sports Nutrition (PgD Sports Nutrition)

Course Level

Level 7

Course Type

Non- Ofqual

Awarding Body

QualCert

Duration

120 Credits

Study Mood

Online

Assessment

Assignments Based

Course Overview

What is this course

The QualCert Level 7 Postgraduate Diploma in Sports Nutrition is designed for professionals seeking advanced expertise in the science and application of nutrition for athletic performance. This program explores the physiological, biochemical, and dietary demands of sports and exercise, equipping learners with the knowledge to optimize health, recovery, and performance in diverse athletic contexts. It bridges cutting‑edge research with practical strategies, ensuring graduates can apply evidence‑based nutrition principles to real‑world sporting environments.

Throughout the course, learners will engage with advanced topics such as energy metabolism, macronutrient and micronutrient requirements, hydration strategies, supplementation, and nutrition for endurance, strength, and team sports. Emphasis is placed on critical evaluation of scientific literature, case study analysis, and the development of tailored nutrition plans for athletes across different disciplines. The program also highlights ethical considerations, anti‑doping regulations, and the role of nutrition in injury prevention and rehabilitation.

Graduates of this diploma will be prepared to take on leadership roles in sports nutrition practice, research, and consultancy. Whether working with elite athletes, recreational sports participants, or multidisciplinary health teams, learners will gain the confidence to deliver impactful nutrition interventions that enhance performance and long‑term wellbeing. This qualification also provides a strong foundation for progression into doctoral research or specialized professional certifications in sports and exercise nutrition.

Course Content

Detailed Curriculum Structure

The QualCert Level 7 Postgraduate Diploma in Sports Nutrition (PgD Sports Nutrition), offers 120 Credits, requiring a Total Qualification Time (TQT) of 1200 hours, including 600 Guided Learning Hours (GLH).

Unit Ref#Unit TitleCreditGLHTQT
QC29098- 1Advanced Principles of Sports Nutrition20100200
QC29098-2Metabolism, Exercise Physiology and Performance20100200
QC29098-3Hydration, Supplementation and Ergogenic Aids20100200
QC29098-4Nutrition for Special Populations in Sport20100200
QC29098-5Applied Sports Nutrition Strategies20100200
QC29098-6Research Methods and Evidence-Based Practice in Sports Nutrition20100200

Learning Objectives

Learning Outcomes for the QualCert Level 7 Postgraduate Diploma in Sports Nutrition (PgD Sports Nutrition):

Advanced Principles of Sports Nutrition

  • Analyse the role of macronutrients and micronutrients in sports performance
  • Evaluate the impact of nutrition on energy balance and training adaptation
  • Apply advanced nutritional theories to athletic populations
  • Critically assess dietary requirements for various types of sports and exercise

Metabolism, Exercise Physiology and Performance

  • Explain the biochemical pathways involved in energy metabolism during exercise
  • Assess the physiological impact of nutrition on performance and recovery
  • Integrate nutritional strategies with exercise physiology principles
  • Critically evaluate the effects of nutrition on endurance, strength, and power outcomes

Hydration, Supplementation and Ergogenic Aids

  • Examine the role of hydration in exercise performance and recovery
  • Evaluate the scientific evidence behind sports supplements and ergogenic aids
  • Design safe and effective supplementation strategies for athletes
  • Assess risks, ethical concerns, and regulatory frameworks in supplement use

Nutrition for Special Populations in Sport

  • Adapt nutrition strategies for youth, female, and ageing athletes
  • Design nutrition plans for endurance, strength, and team sports athletes
  • Assess the dietary needs of athletes with medical conditions or dietary restrictions
  • Evaluate cultural and ethical considerations in sports nutrition practice

Applied Sports Nutrition Strategies

  • Develop tailored nutrition programmes for individuals and sports teams
  • Integrate sports nutrition into performance enhancement and recovery programmes
  • Monitor and adjust athlete nutrition plans using evidence-based tools
  • Collaborate effectively with coaches, medical staff, and performance teams

Research Methods and Evidence-Based Practice in Sports Nutrition

  • Critically analyse research studies in sports and exercise nutrition
  • Apply evidence-based approaches to sports nutrition practice
  • Design and conduct independent research in sports nutrition
  • Communicate research findings effectively to academic and professional audiences

Who Should Attend

Target Audience and Participants

  • Nutritionists and dietitians seeking advanced specialization in sports and exercise nutrition.
  • Health and fitness professionals aiming to integrate evidence‑based nutrition into training programs.
  • Coaches, trainers, and strength & conditioning specialists who want to enhance athlete performance.
  • Medical and allied health practitioners interested in applying nutrition strategies for recovery and rehabilitation.
  • Graduates in nutrition, dietetics, physiology, or related fields pursuing postgraduate advancement.
  • Sports scientists and researchers exploring the latest developments in nutritional biochemistry and performance.
  • Professionals working in athletic organizations, gyms, or wellness centers who want to lead nutrition initiatives.
  • Individuals aspiring to consultancy or leadership roles in sports nutrition practice and education.

Career & Learning Benefits

Skills, Knowledge & Opportunities You Will Earn

  • Gain advanced expertise in sports nutrition, bridging science with practical application.
  • Develop evidence‑based strategies to enhance athletic performance, recovery, and long‑term health.
  • Build the ability to design tailored nutrition plans for diverse sports and training contexts.
  • Strengthen critical thinking through analysis of current research, case studies, and applied practice.
  • Enhance career prospects in elite sports, fitness, health consultancy, and academic research.
  • Acquire leadership skills to guide athletes, teams, and organizations in nutrition decision‑making.
  • Stay ahead with knowledge of supplementation, anti‑doping regulations, and ethical practice.
  • Establish a pathway to doctoral study or specialized professional certifications in sports nutrition.

Need More Information?

Frequently Asked Questions Explained

Learners will study advanced areas such as energy metabolism, macronutrient and micronutrient requirements, hydration strategies, supplementation, nutrition for endurance and strength sports, injury recovery, and ethical considerations including anti‑doping regulations.

While a background in nutrition, health, or fitness is beneficial, prior professional experience is not strictly required. The course is structured to support learners with varying levels of exposure to sports nutrition, gradually building advanced knowledge and practical skills. However, a strong interest in nutrition and performance science is essential for success.

You will develop the ability to critically evaluate scientific research, design tailored nutrition plans for athletes, apply evidence‑based strategies to enhance performance, and provide professional consultancy in sports nutrition. Leadership and analytical skills are also emphasized.

Graduates can pursue careers in sports nutrition consultancy, fitness and wellness centers, athletic organizations, research institutions, and health teams. The qualification also strengthens prospects for progression into advanced professional certifications or doctoral research in sports and exercise nutrition.

Yes, the QualCert Level 7 Postgraduate Diploma is recognized as a high‑level professional qualification, providing credibility and career mobility across international sports, health, and nutrition sectors.

Enrollment Criteria

Minimum Eligibility Criteria for Enrollment

  • Proficiency in English (reading, writing, speaking)
  • Prior study in nutrition, health, fitness, or related field
  • Strong interest in sports, exercise, and performance nutrition
  • Age 21 or above

Lock In Your Spot

Get in Touch

+44 2035 764371

+44 7441 396751

info@ictqual.co.uk

www.inspirecollege.co.uk

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