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
Thank you and farewell to Dr. Blake Phillips
After more than 15 years at the University of Waterloo, Dr. Blake Phillips is stepping down as Director of the School of Accounting and Finance (SAF) to become Dean of the Dhillon School of Business at the University of Lethbridge.
Before he goes, his colleagues, staff and friends at SAF want to mark the moment and thank him for everything he has given the School.
New Indigenous mural finds a permanent home at the School of Accounting and Finance
The School of Accounting and Finance (SAF) unveiled a commissioned three-panel Indigenous mural in the Don Craig Atrium in Hagey Hall on August 11, placing the Haudenosaunee Sky Woman creation story in permanent view at the centre of the School.
Five School of Accounting and Finance researchers earn 2026 SSHRC funding
Five researchers at the School of Accounting and Finance (SAF) earned more than $408,000 in the 2026 Social Sciences and Humanities Research Council (SSHRC) competition.
The SAF awards form part of 20 projects across the Faculty of Arts and more than $8 million that University of Waterloo researchers secured across all six faculties.
Blog
Finding connection over matcha
It started with a matcha, but led to a meaningful connection between mentor and mentee.
Selena reflects on her experience of being Kailey's mentor as part of the School of Accounting and Finance's Fellowship Program, highlighting how a casual café environment created space for honest discussions about co-op, academics and university life.
More than matcha: Finding mentorship through SAF’s Fellowship Program
Sometimes, the most meaningful connections begin in the simplest ways.
For Selena and Kailey, Accounting and Financial Management (AFM) students in SAF's Fellowship Program, it started with two cups of matcha and a pistachio lava bun.
My student ambassador experience: Inside SAF’s SOAP
As a School of Accounting & Finance (SAF) Outreach and Ambassador, AFM student Angel connected with prospective students navigating the same uncertainty she once felt. Whether answering questions about co-op, classes, or how to balance it all, she discovered how meaningful it could be to offer honest reassurance—and in turn, how much the role would push her to grow.