EVALUATING EMPLOYMENT OUTCOMES AND PROGRAM RELEVANCE: A TRACER STUDY OF LAGUNA UNIVERSITY’S COLLEGE OF EDUCATION GRADUATES (2021-2024)

Abstract

Higher education institutions aim to produce graduates who are competitive and those who excel in their fields of specialization. A key measure of this success is graduate employability. In the Philippines, however, unemployment and underemployment remain critical concerns, with college graduates disproportionately affected. Despite employers’ preference for hiring graduates, many struggle to secure roles aligned with their education, highlighting the need for better alignment between academic preparation and labor market demands. This study evaluates the employability of Laguna University’s College of Education graduates, focusing on the alignment between their education and employment outcomes. Through a tracer study, this research assesses the employment profiles of graduates from Bachelor of Elementary Education (BEED) and Bachelor of Secondary Education (BSED) programs in terms of employment status, alignment of job roles with their field of study, and graduation year. The study is based on Investment Theory and Human Capital Theory, which underscore education as a valuable investment for both individuals and society. Using a quantitative descriptive design and a survey adapted from the Commission on Higher Education, the study analyzes data from 2021 to 2024 graduates. The findings reveal that a significant proportion of BEED and BSED graduates are employed, with most working with teaching roles. However, a small percentage remain in non-teaching positions, indicating a potential misalignment between their education and job market needs. This research provides valuable insights into the effectiveness of the College of Education’s programs and offers recommendations for curricular improvements to enhance the employability of future graduates.