Career Outcomes and Professional Competencies of the Master in Business Administration Graduates: A Tracer Study

Abstract

This study assessed the level of adequacy and relevance of the Master of Business Administration program at Isabela State University through the employability skills and core competencies of its graduates from 2020 to 2025. The evaluation focused on factors such as salary increases, the adequacy and relevance of the curriculum, values acquired, and enhanced skills and competencies. A descriptive research design was utilized, and data were analyzed using descriptive statistics such as frequency count, percentage, and mean scores. The study had a sample size of 48, and yielded a response rate of 68.75%, which deemed sufficient for representation. Results showed that the curriculum was described as very adequate and relevant, and they strongly agreed that the values inculcated were very useful in their workplace. Findings also showed that respondents were very satisfied with the university’s services across all program areas. However, the program needs to consider improving its laboratories, library services, and extension service to communities. Moreover, employability skills and competencies were very important in their careers, and they perceived themselves as highly competent, except in Information Technology and research skills, which were identified as areas requiring extensive design within the institution’s teaching methodology to further student development. Thus, curriculum enhancement is recommended to improve academe-industry fit and address the immediate needs of graduates in the workplace.