A Tracer Study of the Bachelor of Science in Information Technology Graduates Class of A.Y. 2011–2012 to 2015–2016 of ST. Mary’s College of Bansalan, Inc.

Abstract

This tracer study examined the employment outcomes of Bachelor of Science in Information Technology (BSIT) graduates of St. Mary’s College of Bansalan, Inc. from A.Y. 2011–2012 to 2015–2016 and generated institution-specific evidence for programme improvement. A descriptive research design was used, with data collected from 44 alumni through an adapted Commission on Higher Education Graduate Tracer Survey instrument. Data were summarised using frequencies, percentages, and ranking. Most respondents were male (64%), married (57%), and residents of Davao del Sur (91%). Only 5% reported master’s-level study, and none reported a postgraduate degree beyond the master’s level. At the time of the survey, 84% were employed, 64% worked locally, and 50% held regular or permanent positions. Although 61% reported that their first job was related to their BSIT degree and 73% considered the curriculum relevant to their first job, only 18% of respondents were grouped in IT- or computer-related positions, indicating uneven job-to-degree alignment. Graduates most frequently identified Strong Faith in God, Discipline, and Resourcefulness as institutional values contributing to job success. Soft skills accounted for 55% of reported skill mentions, compared with 39% for technical skills. Graduates recommended updated technology content, stronger hands-on learning, certification opportunities, improved laboratories and internet access, internships, and faculty development. The findings provide local evidence for strengthening curriculum-to-workforce alignment and graduate career preparation.