EMPLOYABILITY, COMPETENCY DEVELOPMENT, AND CAREER OUTCOMES OF MASTER IN PUBLIC ADMINISTRATION GRADUATES (2021-2026)
Ronald Q. Quinto, Zenaida G. Ramos, Maila M. Capulong, Ariel A. Bongco
Bataan Peninsula State University, Graduate School, Philippines
Abstract
This descriptive tracer study examined the employability, competency development, and career outcomes of Master in Public Administration (MPA) graduates of Bataan Peninsula State University (BPSU) from 2021 to 2026. Using total enumeration, all thirteen (13) accessible graduates participated. A structured questionnaire adapted from the CHED Graduate Tracer Study instrument was used to gather data on graduate profiles, employment characteristics, program contribution, and overall program effectiveness. Findings reveal that all respondents are employed full-time with permanent status, demonstrating a 100% employability rate. The majority are female mid-career public sector professionals, with 92.3% reporting direct relevance between their MPA degree and current employment. Career advancement was the primary motivation for enrollment (46.15%). The degree yielded measurable returns: 69.2% were promoted, 61.5% received salary increases, and 53.8% earned professional awards or certifications. The MPA program was rated Very High in its contribution to interpersonal and soft skills (WM = 4.62), cognitive and technical skills (WM = 4.46), and community engagement (WM = 4.27), while professional advancement and career growth received a High rating (WM = 4.07). Overall program effectiveness was rated Very High (WM = 4.46), with faculty competence identified as the standout institutional strength. The study concludes that the BPSU MPA program effectively fulfills its mandate under outcomes-based education frameworks, though improvements in information technology integration, extracurricular programming, and international engagement are recommended to further enhance program quality and graduate competitiveness.
Keywords: : graduate employability; competency development; career outcomes; outcomes-based education; public sector; higher education
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EPRA International Journal of Multidisciplinary Research (IJMR)
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Published on : 2026-05-03
| Vol | : | 12 |
| Issue | : | 4 |
| Month | : | April |
| Year | : | 2026 |