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
Top of the class: SAF grads earn CPA Honour Roll distinction
In September 2024, thousands of candidates nationwide took the final step in the journey to becoming a Chartered Professional Account (CPA) by writing the Common Final Exam (CFE), widely regarded as one of the most challenging professional exams in Canada.
Seven outstanding alumni from the School of Accounting and Finance placed in the top one percent, earning a place on the CPA Canada Honour Roll.
UWaterloo team reaches global finals in prestigious CFA Institute Research Challenge
Waterloo's student team reaches the global finals of the 2025 CFA Institute Research Challenge.
How SAF is evolving as automation reshapes the audit profession
SAF professor Dr. Krista Fiolleau co-leads a new study revealing how automation is reshaping the role of junior auditors.
Blog
Finding a future at SAF: why I chose SFM
Rachael, a Sustainability and Financial Management (SFM) student, shares why she chose the School of Accounting and Finance (SAF) and how its supportive community, hands-on learning, and co-op opportunities helped her find purpose and belonging.
From Dock to Data: Reflections on VCIC 2025
Over reading week, Alex, Anthony, Nancy, Sarah, and Vivian, graduate students from the School of Accounting and Finance (SAF), had the privilege of representing the University of Waterloo at the Canadian MBA/Graduate Finals of the Venture Capital Investment Competition (VCIC) in Halifax.
From aerospace challenges to ethical solutions: Our experience at McGill
Near the end of March, SAF's team of fourth-year students, Abisha (AFM), Colette (SFM), Dhiya (SFM), and Lucas (SFM), had the opportunity to represent the University of Waterloo for the first time at the McGill Desautels Business Ethics Case Competition in Montreal.