Program Overview

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Introduction to the Bachelor of Science in Nutrition and Food Science

The Bachelor of Science in Nutrition and Food Science degree, offered by the Faculty of Agricultural, Life & Environmental Sciences, provides a diverse education covering the fundamentals of nutritional science, food manufacturing, preservation, storage, and distribution. This degree prepares students for a range of careers in the public and private sectors, from nutrition-lifestyle management to food quality assurance.

Why Study the Dietetics Specialization Program?

The Dietetics Specialization program builds on the BSc in Nutrition and Food Science degree, focusing on Dietetics and Nutrition. Students learn to translate scientific, medical, and nutritional information into practical nutritional recommendations and individualized diets, promoting health in all settings across the lifespan. With this degree, students can practice as a Registered Dietitian or Registered Nutritionist in Alberta. The University of Alberta's Dietetics Specialization is the only approved and accredited program in Alberta.

Program Requirements

Non-Direct Entry

This program does not allow admission directly from high school.

Admission Requirements

Pre-Professional Course Requirements

To be considered for admission, students must complete all of the following courses by the end of the Winter semester immediately prior to admission:

• BIOL 107 - Introduction to Cell Biology
• CHEM 101 - Introductory University Chemistry I
• CHEM 102 - Introductory University Chemistry II
• CHEM 164 OR CHEM 261 - Organic Chemistry I
• 6 units in ENGL OR 3 units in ENGL and 3 units in WRS
• NUTR 100 - Nutrition and Well-being
• STAT 151 - Introduction to Applied Statistics I

Competitive Admission GPA

The minimum admission GPA is 3.0. Admission to the program is highly competitive and largely based on GPA. Alberta students who present an admission GPA of 3 or greater (4-point scale) are best placed for competitive admission.

Full-Time Study Requirement

Students' academic history must demonstrate that they can reasonably handle a full-time academic program. The Admission Committee will look for academic success in a full-time course load in a minimum of two consecutive semesters.

Interview

Students competitive in all other admission requirements will be invited to complete the interview stage, which will take the format of a Multiple Mini Interview.

Out of Province Students

Up to 30% (15 out of 50) places in the Dietetics Specialization program may be available to competitive out-of-province applicants/residents. All admission requirements will remain in effect, including pre-requisite courses and multiple-mini interview.

Recommended Path for Admission

• Enrol in the BSc in Nutrition and Food Science General Program.
• Take all courses outlined in the pre-professional requirements.
• Apply to the Dietetics Specialization program during completion of the pre-professional year.

Admission Application Formula

Applicants are ranked on their academic achievement in the following:

• Prerequisite courses
• Overall academic achievement (emphasizing recent academic performance)
• Performance in the Multiple Mini Interview process

Applications will be reviewed by the Admission Committee based on GPA. Applicants will be invited to complete a Multiple Mini Interview, and successful applicants will be selected based on:

• Multiple Mini Interview: 50%
• GPA: 50%

Timeline

• Multi-Mini Interviews (MMI): March 27, 2026
• Applicants Letters Sent Out: Late April 2026

English Language Proficiency

The primary language of instruction is English. For more information on the English Language Proficiency policy, refer to the University of Alberta Calendar.

Indigenous Applicants

The University of Alberta is committed to encouraging Indigenous students in their work towards a degree. For more information on Admission of Indigenous Students, refer to the University of Alberta Calendar.

Deadline

• Fall application:
  • Domestic: March 1, 2026
  • International: March 1, 2026

Tuition and Fees

Tuition fees will be evaluated based on the specific courses registered in. The cost calculator can provide an estimate based on full-time study for the selected program.

Scholarships and Financial Support

The Office of the Registrar administers over $52 million each year in scholarships, awards, and financial support for undergraduate students, as well as financial and loan advising. Additional scholarships are available for specific faculties and programs.