Lead the change. Shape the future.
Disruptive technologies are revolutionizing business. To compete, it's not enough to have a foundation in accounting and finance. You also need a broad understanding of technology, business analytics, sustainability, and innovation.
That's why you'll study at the intersections of accounting, finance, and business while immersing yourself in diverse topics that give you the flexibility to design your unique pathway. Dive into collaborative, problem-based courses, then apply your learning to the real world through co-op work terms and co- and extra-curricular experiences.
By cultivating an entrepreneurial mindset and leading-edge financial expertise, you'll be ready to positively impact global economies with new perspectives and solutions.
Program highlights
Pro qualifications. Accounting and Financial Management (AFM) provides a direct route to Chartered Professional Accountant (CPA) and Chartered Financial Analyst (CFA) designations. Complete our Master of Accounting (MAcc) program to get advanced standing for your Chartered Business Valuators (CBV) designation.
Top-level accreditation. Our School of Accounting and Finance has received the highest level of national accreditation through CPA Canada, as well as accreditation through the CFA Institute University Affiliation Program.
- Offered as a co-op program only
- Graduate with a Bachelor of Accounting and Financial Management (BAFM)
- Offered by the School of Accounting and Finance, Faculty of Arts
What will you learn?
First-year courses
You'll gain a strong foundation in accounting, finance, and business starting from day one.
Plus, you'll develop the competencies today's employers demand – from technical skills to transferable ones, including problem-solving, communication, collaboration, and critical thinking.
Learn about courses you'll take for your accounting and finance degree.
Customize your degree
Future-proof your career and expand your knowledge with career specializations. Use your 13 electives to complete up to two areas of focus.
- Accounting
- Finance
- Entrepreneurship
- Business Analytics
Only want to complete one career specialization? No problem. Use your remaining electives to pursue a minor to take courses that interest you.
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Become a finance expert who can lead change and shape the future
Co-op = relevant paid work experience
Waterloo's co-op program, the largest in North America, is an amazing way to explore potential careers, learn to interview for jobs, graduate with up to two years of valuable experience – and make money!
Sample co-op job titles
- Fixed income analyst
- Finance officer trainee
- Junior financial analyst
- Business analyst
- Auditor trainee
- IT finance assistant
- Staff accountant/analyst
- Accounting assistant
Co-op work-study sequence
Starting in second year, you'll normally alternate between school and work every four months, integrating your classroom learning with real-world experience. You can return to the same employer for a couple of work terms to gain greater knowledge and responsibility or work for different employers to get a broad range of experience.
| Year | September to December (Fall) | January to April (Winter) | May to August (Spring) |
|---|---|---|---|
| First | Study | Study | Off |
| Second | Study | Co-op | Study |
| Third | Co-op | Study | Study |
| Fourth | Co-op | Study | Co-op |
| Fifth | Study | - | - |
Your first work term will be halfway through second year (January to April 2026).
Admission requirements
Ontario students: six Grade 12 U and/or M courses including
- Any Grade 12 U English (minimum final grade of 75% is required)
- Advanced Functions (minimum final grade of 75% is required)
- Calculus and Vectors (minimum final grade of 75% is required)
- Completion of the SAF Admissions Assessment (SAFAA)
Recommended courses: Principles of Financial Accounting, Mathematics of Data Management
Admission average: Individual selection from the mid-80s
Not studying in Ontario? Search our admission requirements.
How to apply
Apply directly to this program on your application.
Connect with us
Questions about courses, programs, requirements, or careers?
Please email Kelly Millar, our recruitment and admissions coordinator who can answer any questions you have.
