- By Ana Mae B. Cantel, Dimpna C. Castigador, Charissa June G. Deocampo, and Jazel May D. Juntoria
ABSTRACT
This Graduate Tracer Study (GTS) aimed to gather relevant information on the employment of Central Philippine University (CPU) graduates from SY 2016-2017 to SY 2020-2021 and to strengthen its academic programs and support services. A total of 271 graduates participated in this study that employed a quantitative descriptive research technique using a one-shot survey design. This study aimed to describe the characteristics of the graduates as to their personal and educational profiles, achievements and recognition, attributes and values, employment status, and the strengths and weaknesses of the academic programs they attended. Results showed that majority of the participants were female, from the province of Iloilo, and are currently employed. Majority of the respondents believed that their academic program at CPU adequately prepared them for their current job and had secured their first job within two years. Furthermore, the majority of respondents affirmed that their college program’s curriculum was relevant. The top five skills they learned in CPU which they found useful included teaching, communication, critical thinking, problem solving, and human relation skills. Majority of the respondents worked in private organizations, and the rest were in public organizations or were self-employed. To further enhance the marketability of CPU programs and the employability of the graduates they produce, the researchers recommend that the university regularly assess the curriculum or academic programs involving academic leaders, alumni, and industry representatives. This step aims to ensure that graduates possess the essential industry-relevant knowledge and skills, thus bolstering their employability and improving the marketability of the programs as required by the industry.