Get a university bachelor's degree in dietetics that is accredited by the Dietitians of Canada. There are a number of degree programs across Canada meeting the standards of the Dietitians of Canada. These programs include courses in chemistry, biology and health and have different names, including nutritional science or applied human nutrition, depending on which university you attend. You can find a list of accredited Canadian university dietetic programs in the References section.
Complete an internship program. In order to put their education into practice, prospective dietitians are required to complete an internship program of 40 to 45 weeks. Some Canadian bachelor's and master's dietetics programs offer equivalent internship experience in their integrated programs, but if you did not graduate from a program of this type, you must apply for an internship program through the Dietitians of Canada. You can choose the location and type of internship you want to complete, with options including long-term health facilities and the food industry. Application to internship programs is a competitive process, so you are encouraged to apply to more than one program, up to a maximum of three. You can get an application for internship programs at your university or by contacting the Dietitians of Canada.
Dietitians of Canada
480 University Avenue, Suite 604
Toronto, ON M5G 1V2
416-596-0857
dietitians.ca
Complete the Canadian Dietetic Registration Exam (CDRE). This is a multiple choice examination testing your knowledge and application of dietetic principles. Every province in Canada, except Quebec, requires that registered dietitians pass this examination. There is a fee of $400 to write the exam and you can apply to write the exam through your provincial dietitian regulatory organization. Find a link to these organizations in Resources.
Apply for certification with your provincial regulatory body. Fees and procedures for application will differ depending on your province of practice. Check with your provincial college of dietitians for more information.