HOW TO BECOME AN RD
In order to practice dietetics in Manitoba, an individual must complete a baccalaureate degree majoring in human nutritional sciences, or a university program approved by the College of Dietitians of Manitoba (CDM). University of Manitoba is an accredited educational institution, which has a Human Nutritional Sciences program. The degree will include courses in general and organic chemistry, microbiology, physiology, biochemistry, advance human nutrition, advanced foods, food service systems, organization and management and quality food production management.
Further specialization would include:
* Clinical Nutrition: anatomy, pathology, pharmacology
* Community Nutrition: research methods, program planning, education theory and community organization
* Food Service Administration: advanced management theory, cost control and accounting, personnel and business law
Once an individual receives their degree, they are able to apply to the Manitoba Partnership Dietetic Education Program (MPP), which provides the internship program and is an accredited program. The intership program usually consists of a minimum of 35 to 40 weeks of practical training, gained under the supervision of an RD. The program is designed to ensure the competencies required to practice have been acquired in a wide variety of practice areas. These include acute care hospitals, long term care facilities, and home care and public health facilities.
Once they are accepted into the MPP, they can apply to the College of Dietitians of Manitoba and receive status as a Dietetic Intern. Once hey have successfully completed the internship program, they can now apply to CDM as a Graduate Dietitian (GD) and apply to write the Canadian Dietetic Registration Examination (CDRE).
If they pas the CDRE, their status changes from a Graduate Dietitian to a Registered Dietitian and practice as such. In order to maintain their tatus as an RD, they must renew their membership with CDM yearly in March and complete the Continuing Competence program, which includes continuing education and professional development. This is stipulated by the Registered Dietitians Act and CDM Bylaws and Regulations.
All new applicants must meet the above education criteria and be assessed by the Board of Assessors. Application forms are available on this website, under menu tab located at the top of the screen under "Become a Member".
Evidence of practical training and completed criminal record review must be submitted, along with appropriate college fees. For applicants, applying with United States education and International training must contact the College for further requirements. Further information can be obtained under the menu tab of this website, "Becoming a Member" - "Applying with International Training."
