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
SAF announces 2025 Alumni Award recipients
Each year, the University of Waterloo recognizes exceptional alumni from each faculty and school with Alumni Awards. Recipients from 2025, Troy Maxwell (BA ’89, MAcc ’89) and Adnan Khan (BAFM ’17, MAcc ’17), are highlighted for their professional achievements, leadership and community impact.
Visit the 2025 Alumni Awards page for a full list of recipients.
Jatinder Bassi (MAcc '10) on continuous learning and the path to executive success
Jatinder Bassi (MAcc ’10), President of Echelon Insurance, reflects on continuous learning, leadership growth and the mindset shifts that supported his journey from accounting and finance roles to executive leadership.
In this Q&A, he shares practical career insights and advice for the next generation of business leaders.
Inspiring young leaders to drive change and "Be the Future"
SAF recently hosted “Be The Future”, a conference that gave highschool students a chanve to step into the shoes of tomorrows business leaders, tackling hands-on challeneges, participating in expert panel discussions and exploring how technology, AI, science and sustainability are reshaping the way business are done.
Blog
New York, New York: A reflection of our week in the concrete jungle
The Fall 2025 AFM 334 International Study Course class explored New York City through iconic landmarks, cultural experiences, and meetings with leading firms across finance, media, and law. From Times Square and Broadway to Wall Street and the NYSE, the trip blended sightseeing with real-world business insights.
Read their blog for a behind-the-scenes look at how students navigated and learned in the Concrete Jungle.
Change of plans: How our class turned a coastal flood warning into one of the best moments of our New York trip
AFM 334's study trip to New York City took a turn when the first stop on their list was cancelled due to a coastal flood warning.
This unexpected change in plans turned out to be a blessing in disguise, leading to one of the most memorable experiences of the whole trip.
Three days, ten bottles of Pocari Sweat, and a lifetime of memories
Leading the International Study Course trip class through three days of cultural exploration in Hong Kong, the Marketing and Culture team reflects on the breathtaking sights, delicious food and vibrant culture they were able to immerse themselves in when they weren't in meetings with leaders of global businesses, building life-long memories in the process.