Dietitian
Getting Started
Considering becoming a Dietitian? This chapter is to help you explore, plan, and navigate the process of exploring your options and applying.
We recommend starting with the following chapter, Applying At Graduate And Professional School.
For personalized support, book an appointment with a Science Career Advisor at the Science Careers & Experience Centre (BSB 127) on OSCARplus.
Programs in Ontario
What is a dietitian and a nutritionist?
Dietitians and nutritionists plan, organize, conduct, and supervise programs in nutrition, diet and food service. They are employed in a variety of settings including hospitals, extended care facilities, public health centers, the food and beverage industry, educational institutions, sports organizations, and government, or they may be self-employed.
The titles “Registered Dietitian”, “Dietitian” are protected by law. These titles can only be used by those who have met national standards. The Law does not protect the term “Nutritionist” in all provinces, so people with different levels of training and knowledge can call themselves “Nutritionist.”
Dietitians and nutritionists perform some or all of the following duties
- Develop, administer, and supervise nutrition and food preparation and service programs in hospitals, nursing homes, schools, company cafeterias or similar settings
- Evaluate nutritional status of individuals and provide nutrition counselling and consulting to health professionals, dietetic interns, community groups, government, media, and individuals
- Aid in the prevention and/or treatment of inadequate nutrition
- Plan, evaluate and conduct nutrition education programs and develop educational materials for various audiences
- Practice on an individual basis or as a member of an interdisciplinary team to determine nutritional needs of patients and to plan normal and therapeutic menus
- Study and analyze scientific nutritional studies and conduct research to improve the nutritional value, taste, appearance, and preparation of food.
* Information from the Dietitians of Canada
Example titles of dietitians and nutritionists
- Administrative Dietitian
- Clinical Dietitian
- Community Dietitian
- Consultant Dietitian
- Dietitian
- Nutrition and Dietetics Researcher
- Nutritionist
- Public Health Nutritionist
- Registered Dietitian (RD)
- Registered Nutritionist
Relevant websites
Need more support with deciding if becoming a Dietitian is right for you?
Meet with a Science Career Advisor
Book a 30-minute appointment with the Science Careers & Experience Centre (BSB 127) in advance through OSCARplus.
Design your future with SCIENCE 2DL3
Enrol in SCIENCE 2DL3: Design Your Science Career— an interactive career development course designed to help undergraduate students take charge of their future with creativity and confidence.
Explore these additional chapters:
- Applying To Graduate And Professional School
- Creating Your Résumé And CV
- Crafting Personal Statements And Letters Of Intent
- Requesting Letters Of References
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