Graduate Employability and Career Outcomes: A Comparative Tracer Study of Bachelor of Science in Information Technology and Bachelor of Science in Computer Science Graduates of Negros Oriental State University - Main Campus
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.64612/ijiv.v2i6.125Keywords:
tracer study, employability, career outcomes, BSIT graduates, BSCS graduatesAbstract
This study examined the employability and career outcomes of Bachelor of Science in Information Technology (BSInT) and Bachelor of Science in Computer Science (BSCS) graduates from Negros Oriental State University–Main Campus who graduated between 2022 and 2025. Using a quantitative descriptive-comparative tracer study design, data were collected from 326 graduates through a modified Commission on Higher Education (CHED) Graduate Tracer Study questionnaire administered via online and offline platforms. Descriptive statistics, chi-square tests of independence, and the Mann–Whitney U test were employed to analyze the data. Findings revealed that most graduates were employed, with the private sector serving as the primary source of employment. Both BSInT and BSCS graduates reported positive career outcomes and rated their academic programs highly in developing employability competencies, particularly computer skills, problem-solving abilities, teamwork, and independent work skills. Comparative analyses indicated no significant differences between the two programs in terms of employment status and type of employing organization. However, significant differences were observed in waiting time to first employment and initial monthly income, favoring BSCS graduates. BSCS graduates entered the workforce more quickly and earned higher starting salaries than their BSInT counterparts. The findings suggest that both programs effectively prepare graduates for employment in the technology sector. Nevertheless, continuous curriculum enhancement, stronger industry partnerships, career placement support, and entrepreneurship initiatives are recommended to further improve graduate employability and career success.
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Copyright (c) 2026 Chester L. Cofino, Rosette C. Cagang, Diana Jane Nazareth, Ariel C. Bensing, Christian Franc M. Carvajal, Ryan B. Escorial, Japhet P. Fulmaran, Van Roger B. Gutib
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