A Partnership to Launch Global Careers in Public Financial Management

The economic impact of recent years has put public spending under the microscope. The need for strong financial management of our public institutions is of the utmost importance.

Carleton University’s Sprott School of Business is excited to announce a new partnership with the Chartered Institute of Public Finance and Accountancy (CIPFA) that will provide students with a launch pad to global careers in public sector finance and accounting.

The Chartered Institute of Public Finance and Accountancy and Carleton University's Sprott School of Business announce a new partnership that provides accelerated pathways to careers in global financial management for Sprott undergraduate accounting students. From left to right: Claire Lake, Partner, Niewe Consulting; Chris O'Neill, Head of Member Engagement and Support, CIPFA; Rebecca Renfroe, Associate Dean, Undergraduate Recruitment and Student Success, Sprott School of Business. — The Chartered Institute of Public Finance and Accountancy and Carleton University’s Sprott School of Business announce a new partnership that provides accelerated pathways to careers in global financial management for Sprott undergraduate accounting students. From left to right: Claire Lake, Partner, Niewe Consulting; Chris O’Neill, Head of Member Engagement and Support, CIPFA; Rebecca Renfroe, Associate Dean, Undergraduate Recruitment and Student Success, Sprott School of Business.

“At Sprott, we believe that education creates options, opening doors to diverse pathways for students to build their futures,” said Rebecca Renfroe, Sprott Associate Dean, Student Success and Recruitment, Undergraduate Programs. “As the Associate Dean of Student Success, it’s my mission to constantly seek new avenues for our students’ growth.”

“For our accounting students, a massive opportunity is emerging—a new path to certification that goes beyond the CPA. Recognized by the Government of Canada, the Government of Ontario, the Canadian Armed Forces, and governments across the Commonwealth, the Chartered Institute of Public Finance and Accountancy will introduce our students to the global world of public accounting. I am thrilled and excited for what lies ahead for them.”

Based in the U.K., CIPFA is an international accountancy and standard-setting body – the only such body of its kind globally dedicated to public financial management. Not only is CIPFA recognized across Canadian federal and provincial governments, but also CIPFA works in more than 80 countries, equipping students to take their careers internationally.

“At CIPFA, we are proud to collaborate with Carleton University’s Sprott School of Business to offer students a transformative opportunity in public financial management,” said Chris O’Neill, Head of Member Engagement and Support, CIPFA.

“This partnership aligns with CIPFA’s commitment to building global leaders in public finance, providing graduates with a unique blend of professional rigor, international recognition, and practical knowledge tailored to the evolving demands of public sector financial management both in Canada and internationally. Together, we are equipping the next generation of public finance professionals to make a meaningful impact in Canada and beyond.”

Sprott’s new Bachelor of Accounting and Bachelor of Commerce – Accounting programs cover several modules of the CIPFA body of knowledge, providing graduates with an accelerated pathway to the Chartered Public Finance Accountant (CPFA) designation. Applications are now being accepted to both programs for Fall 2025.

Sprott School of Business students and industry partners at the announcement of a new partnership between CIPFA and the Sprott School of Business at Carleton University in Ottawa, Ontario, Canada.