Tracer Study Of Master In Public Administration Graduates From 2011-2021 And Its Relevancy To Competency

Abstract

In the contemporary labor market, aligning academic preparation with employment outcomes remains a significant challenge, as evidenced by the increasing prevalence of graduates occupying positions unrelated to their fields of study. Graduate tracer studies are essential tools for evaluating the relevance and quality of higher education programs in relation to labor market demands. This study investigated the employment status and professional trajectories of Master’s in Public Administration (MPA) graduates from Laguna State Polytechnic University, Santa Cruz Campus (LSPU SCC), covering cohorts from 2011 to 2021. Utilizing a descriptive research design and probability sampling, the study analyzed the demographic profiles, employment characteristics, and competency levels of 60 respondents. Results indicated that the majority of graduates were married females aged 35–44, predominantly employed in local government positions with regular or permanent appointments. Key competencies identified included strong management skills, teamwork, personal responsibility, and integrity, with the highest conformity observed in management-related tasks. Notably, age demonstrated a statistically significant relationship with graduates’ competencies, while gender and marital status showed minimal correlation. Furthermore, the place of employment exhibited a moderate positive correlation with competencies in abilities, knowledge, and work values. These findings underscore the importance of continuous curriculum evaluation and alignment with evolving workforce requirements to enhance graduate employability.