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
The bonus that makes employees more committed
Researchers at the University of Waterloo, Wilfrid Laurier University and McMaster University set out to test whether pay-to-quit programs work as intended.
Their results confirmed that they do and revealed an unexpected benefit: employees who turned down a financial incentive to leave translates into stronger performance going forward.
UWaterloo students tackle real-world sustainability challenges
Bringing more than 15 years of sustainability consulting experience to the classroom, Claire Purvis, the Associate Director of the Hub for Sustainability Integration, is leading a student consultancy course with real-world impact.
Matching students with real organizations facing sustainability challenges, the course reflects UWaterloo's deep commitment to experiential learning.
Dr. Adam Vitalis appointed Director of the School of Accounting and Finance
Dr. Adam Vitalis has begun a four-year term as the new Director of the School of Accounting and Finance (SAF).
A faculty member since 2017 and Director of the Hub for Sustainability Integration, Vitalis brings extensive academic and industry experience to the role. He succeeds Dr. Blake Phillips, who led the School from 2022 to 2026.
Blog
Three photos and three stories from our time in New York City
The Marketing and Culture team from the 2026 International Study Course has returned from New York City, reflecting on the memorable week of sightseeing, connecting with alumni and so much more.
In this blog, the team shares three photos to highlight their favourite moments from the trip and the exciting stories behind them.
Leveraging mentorship through the SAF Fellowship Program
Through the Fellowship Program, AFM student Kaavish was paired with both an upper-year mentor and an industry mentor, each offering valuable support on his university journey — one guiding him through academics, the other through the world of work.
Together, these mentorships gave Kaavish a clearer understanding of his professional path along with the confidence, knowledge and support to pursue it.
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.