Tracing success: Assessing the influence of bachelor of public administration program on graduates’ outcomes

International Journal of Research Studies in Education
CollabWritive Special Issue
Volume 13 Issue 17

Available Online:  25 October 2024

Author/s:

Lising, Sarah Dane B.
Southern Luzon State University, Philippines (Sarahdane.lising@slsu.edu.ph)

Abstract:

The College of Administration, Business, Hospitality, and Accountancy of Southern Luzon University, Lucban Quezon Campus, continually aspires to reach the highest level of accreditation among State Universities school. The Tracer study for bachelor’s in public administration was covered the Academic Year of 2020-2023, the total population for the respondents was two hundred sixty-nine (269). The Bachelor of Public Administration (BPA) Tracer Study employs a descriptive research design. The design is appropriate for gathering detailed information about the career trajectories, employment status, and professional development of BPA graduates from Southern Luzon State University (SLSU). Descriptive research allows for the systematic collection, analysis, and interpretation of quantitative and qualitative data, aimed at providing an in-depth understanding of how the BPA program has impacted the lives of its graduates. This tracer study examines the employability of graduates from public administration programs, assessing the alignment between their educational experiences and labor market outcomes. Through a comprehensive survey of alumni and interviews with key stakeholders, the study identifies employment rates, sectors of employment, and the skills deemed essential by employers in the public sector. Results indicate that graduates typically find opportunities in government agencies, non-profit organizations, and international organizations, with a notable emphasis on roles related to policy analysis, program management, and community engagement. Majority of the graduates around one hundred twenty-six of 46.84% of graduates hold permanent employment, while a significant portion is in contractual (20.82%) and casual employment (16.73%). The substantial number of casual and contractual employees highlights the challenges graduates face in securing permanent positions, a trend common in public sector employment. Although many graduates report satisfactory job placement, gaps in practical skills and workplace readiness are highlighted. The findings underscore the need for academic programs to enhance experiential learning, internships, and soft skills training to better prepare students for the demands of public administration careers. This study aims to provide actionable insights for educational institutions, policymakers, and students, fostering a more effective transition from academia to the workforce.

Keywords: tracer, study, public, administration, students

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DOI: https://doi.org/10.5861/ijrse.2024.24756

Cite this article:
Lising, S. D. B. (2024). Tracing success: Assessing the influence of bachelor of public administration program on graduates’ outcomes. International Journal of Research Studies in Education, 13(17), 129-144. https://doi.org/10.5861/ijrse.2024.24756