Registration

In order to be licensed to practice using the titles registered dietitian (RD) or nutritionist in Nova Scotia, the applicant must meet the following requirements:

  1. A four year bachelor’s degree (dietetics) from an accredited university,
  2. A 35-40 week accredited dietetic practicum, and
  3. Pass of the Canadian Dietetic Registration Examination (CDRE).

In Canada, the accredited university degree and practicum are based on entry to practice standards, the Integrated Competencies for Dietetic Education and Practice.

What is Accreditation?

Accreditation is an ongoing process of assessing health care organizations against standards of excellence to identify what is being done well and what needs to be improved. Health education accreditation is a quality improvement process that supports health education programs in ensuring that graduates are ready to deliver quality care at entry to practice. In the context of dietetic education, accreditation has two primary purposes, to:

  • Assess program compliance with national standards, and
  • Encourage programs to strive for quality improvement.

Accreditation Canada, under the EQual program, accredits the dietetic education programs in Canada. Existing Partnership for Dietetic Education and Practice accreditation awards will continue to be recognized by Canadian dietetic regulatory bodies as approved programs for the purposes of registration until August 2023.

Existing PDEP accreditation awards will be recognized, for the purpose of program approval and registration eligibility, until August 31, 2023. Programs who have not transitioned to the new accreditation service provider beyond this date will be considered non approved and graduates from these programs will be assessed through the Prior Learning Assessment and Recognition process. More information regarding this process can be found in policy #16 if the NSCDN Registration Policies. 

The NSCDN recognizes accredited programs across Canada.  Below are Nova Scotia dietetic education programs.

To apply to NSCDN, complete the online application form.  Email rThis email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. if you have any questions or to schedule an in-person or telephone appointment.  You can expect a reply within two to three business days.  Click HERE to read registration policies.

Payment may be made online via credit card or e-transfer. Documents may be uploaded through the registration portal. Original documents in sealed envelopes may also be mailed to NSCDN.  Fees may be paid by cheque.  

Nova Scotia College of Dietitians and Nutritionists
301 - 380 Bedford Highway
Halifax, Nova Scotia B3M 2L4

Fees

  1. Application fee: $85
  2. Application fee for reinstatement (if not currently licensed with another Canadian Dietetic regulatory body): $185
  3. Full license: $400 ($200 after September 30)
  4. Non-sufficient funds charge: $25