The School of Accounting and Finance (SAF) tackles global challenges by preparing students to think differently. Going beyond the limits of a traditional business school, SAF redefines what it means to be an accounting and finance professional.
Training future-ready leaders in accounting and finance
The future of accounting and finance is collaborative, interdisciplinary and inclusive. SAF graduates are equipped with the integrity and expertise to tackle the world’s most pressing demands like climate uncertainty, emerging technology and AI. The field is constantly evolving with SAF students leading the change.
Learning beyond the classroom
Through paid co-op, international study and travel opportunities, and hands-on experiences, SAF students are gaining real-world skills through experiential learning to make bold, informed decisions through a global lens.
Business meets AI, tech, innovation and sustainability
Our programs connect accounting and finance with artificial intelligence, data analytics, computer science, sustainability, and innovation to prepare students for a fast-changing world.
Accounting and finance shape decisions in every sector of the economy. As emerging technologies and AI transform the world, the need for ethical, adaptable problem-solvers has never been greater. It is also essential to consider the impacts on people, communities, and the environment alongside financial goals, so that decisions create fair and sustainable outcomes. At SAF, we’re preparing graduates to meet that challenge, leading with insight, integrity, and impact on the issues that matter most.
News
University of Waterloo students take the top spot at CFA Institute Research Challenge global finals in Hong Kong
University of Waterloo students have won the global CFA Institute Research Challenge, outperforming teams from 1,200 universities worldwide and securing the university’s third global title in a decade.
Black Brilliance and the business of belonging
In partnership with the Waterloo Region District School Board’s Black Brilliance initiative, the University of Waterloo’s School of Accounting and Finance welcomed secondary school students and teachers to campus for an immersive day exploring business education.
Through mentorship, hands-on activities and conversations with faculty, students and entrepreneurs, the visit aimed to make pathways in business, finance and entrepreneurship feel visible, accessible and welcoming.
University of Waterloo accounting research ranked third globally
The University of Waterloo’s School of Accounting and Finance has achieved its highest‑ever international research ranking, placing third worldwide in the 2025 Brigham Young University (BYU) Accounting Rankings — ahead of institutions such as Cornell University.
The milestone reflects sustained, award‑winning research that helps organizations better understand how incentives, performance metrics and systems influence real human behaviour at work.
Events
SAF Professional Designations Day 2026
SAF Professional Designations Day 2026
Choosing the right courses, specialization, and professional designation can play a major role in shaping your career. SAF’s Professional Designations Day brings these pieces together, helping you understand how your academic choices connect to future opportunities.
The event is conference-style, allowing you to attend presentations and workshops that are most relevant to your goals. Whether you’re exploring potential designations, planning your specialization or preparing for upcoming certification requirements, this event provides the information and connections you need to move forward.
Blog
Growth on the west coast: insights and lessons from Vancouver
What does it take to compete on a national consulting stage? This student blog follows a University of Waterloo team at the National Strategy Consulting Competition in Vancouver, where they placed among the top 12 teams nationwide.
Discover the lessons they share on teamwork, strategy, and personal growth through an intense real‑world case competition experience.
Inside the BV Challenge: A student perspective on real-word business valuation
Shrisha, Jackson, Reda and Luke recently participated in the Business Valuation Challenge, where they gained hands-on experience with valuation and explored the Chartered Business Valuator career path.
Read their blog to learn more about the experience from their perspective.
Discovering opportunity and community through the SAF Fellowship Program
Aarya, a Sustainability and Financial Management student, highlights her experiences as a fellowship student and SOAP ambassador at the School of Accounting and Finance.