Registered Biologist (R. Biol.) and Registered Biologist in Training (R.B.I.T.)

The Registered Biologist in Training (R.B.I.T.) membership category is a transitional category for applicants who do not meet the academic requirements for Biologist in Training, yet wish to be a non-regulated member of the ASPB. Members admitted to this category are expected to either take the required number of courses to meet 15 biology courses so they can reclassify as a P. Biol. once they have three years of biology experience, or they are expected to apply for Registered Biologist upon meeting experience requirements, then either do academic upgrading or apply for P. Biol. under equivalency, as outlined in the Registered Biologist page.

The Registered Biologist (R. Biol.) membership category is a transitional category for applicants who do not meet the academic requirements for Professional Biologist and who do not have six years of experience required under equivalency for P. Biol., yet wish to be a non-regulated member of the ASPB. Members admitted to this category are expected to either take the required number of courses to meet 15 biology courses, or ensure they are attaining work experience that will meet the course to work equivalency requirements.

Another source of essential information is the Registration Committee Handbook, which can be downloaded Here. This document has been updated as of July 2023.

Academic Requirements (for R.B.I.T. and R. Biol.)

• A four-year (120 course credits) degree awarded by a Canadian post-secondary institution comprised of approximately 1800 hours of formal lecture or seminar time instruction (time in labs or lab courses are not counted in the total hours).
• The academic transcripts must include at least 25 science courses, of which 12 to 14 are in the biological sciences, and where at least two of the biological science courses are at a senior level (i.e., third or fourth-year).

Experience and Good Character Requirements (R. Biol. only)

• The experience requirements for a R. Biol. are the same as for a P. Biol. A R. Biol. must have three or more years of practice in biology earned after graduation (i.e., after academic requirements have been met). Usually it is expected that the experience must have been obtained not more than ten years prior to the application. Applicants will be required to complete an application form to demonstrate their experience in the practice of biology.
• An applicant will provide the names of three referees who are knowledgeable about the applicant’s professional experience as a biologist and their character and reputation. At least one referee should be a P. Biol. If a P. Biol. is not available, a professional from another recognized professional organization will be acceptable (P. Eng., P. Chem., etc.). Preferred referees include the applicant’s current employer, previous employer or supervisor. Only two letters of reference will be accepted from a current employer.

How to Apply

For information on the application process and step-by-step instructions of how to apply, please click here.