Leading the change to shape the future of business
Grounded in a strong history of innovation in accounting and finance education, our legacy is rooted in academic excellence and professional impact.
Looking ahead, SAF remains committed to fostering diverse perspectives, interdisciplinary thinking, and real-world learning experiences that prepare students to lead change in business and beyond.Ìý
Who we are
Today, the School of Accounting and Finance prepares thousands of students with the skills and experience to succeed as future leaders.
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Learning that reflects the world you're stepping into.Ìý
SAF will prepare graduates who not only master accounting and finance but also lead at the intersections of technology, climate, ethics, and global innovation. This future positions SAF as a catalyst for shaping industries, economies, and communities worldwide.Ìý
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We believe business has the power to build a better future. Ìý
Our interdisciplinary approach reflects the complexity of today’s world.ÌýBy combining accounting and finance with fields like sustainability, data analytics, science, and technology, we help students develop the skills to think beyond boundaries and the confidence to lead in environments that don’t follow a single path.Ìý
Along the way, students are supported by a driven community of peers, mentors and industry leaders, gaining the experience, perspective and mindset to take on whatever comes next.Ìý
Strategic PrioritiesÌý
The future of SAF is bold, interdisciplinary, and impact-driven. Ìý
Building on its reputation as Canada’s premier school for accounting and finance, SAF is expanding its leadership into entrepreneurial finance, sustainability, and cross-disciplinary research.Ìý
SAF’s vision is directly aligned with À¶Ý®ÊÓÆµ at 100, the University’s plan to shape the next century of innovation and impact. As À¶Ý®ÊÓÆµ drives forward in building the ventures, research, and solutions of tomorrow, SAF will provide the financial leaders and interdisciplinary expertise needed to bring those ideas to life.Ìý
Our history
The University À¶Ý®ÊÓÆµ has led the way in accounting education since the 1960s, creating innovative programs that combine academics with co-op experience.
In the early 80s, as a result of both an increasing interest in studying accounting at the university level and the perception of the need for a centre in Canada in which academic research and a comprehensive program of education in accounting could be pursued vigorously, the School of Accounting and Finance was established in the Faculty of Arts.

A legacy of leadership: SAF directors through the years:
- Blake Phillips 2022 – Present
- Steve Fortin 2018 – 2022
- Thomas W. Scott 2012 – 2017
- James Barnett 2006 – 2012, 2016 – 2018
- Alister Mason 2002 – 2006
- Howard Armitage 1990 – 1991, 1996 - 1997
- Morley Lemon 1987 – 1988, 1998 – 2002
- John Waterhouse 1991 - 1996
- Jack Hanna 1980 – 1987, 1988 – 1990