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
KPMG Canada CEO Benjie Thomas (PDAcc ’98) returns to the University of Waterloo with powerful career lessons
Benjie Thomas (PDAcc '98), CEO of KPMG in Canada returned to the University of Waterloo's School of Accounting and Finance to chat with students and share valuable career insights with the next generation.
Before his inspiring talk, Benjie was recognized for his longstanding generosity at a luncheon attended by University leaders, local KPMG partners and alumni, as well as student recipients of the scholarships endowed in the Thomas Family name.
Doing good really does pay: the financial case for sustainable investing
UWaterloo researcher Tony Wirjanto finds that investment strategies built on ESG principles deliver stronger, more resilient returns — even during times of economic stress.
A standout achievement: celebrating an all-female group of MAcc alumni on the 2025 CFE National Honour Roll
Seven graduates from the School of Accounting and Finance (SAF) Master of Accounting program have earned a spot on Ontario’s 2025 CFE National Honour Roll.
Representing nearly one-third of all Honour Roll writers in the province, this achievement highlights our students' strong technical foundation and confidence to navigate the complexities of today’s accounting landscape.
Blog
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.
The art of group coordination: Lessons learned from managing meals, meetings and movement in Hong Kong
Having recently returned from the spring International Study Course trip to Hong Kong, the Meals and Logistics team reflects on their experience working behind the scenes to keep the trip running smoothly from coordinating travel plans, restaurants, meeting times and everything in between.
Our Singapore trip: The resume
Three SAF students — Diana, Leo, and Franco — served as the Marketing and Culture team for the International Study Course trip to Singapore this spring. From their first moments on the island, they were struck by how seamlessly Singapore blends innovation with tradition. In this blog, they share their impressions of the city and the highlights that made the experience unforgettable.