Tracer Study on Bachelor of Science in Electrical Engineering Graduates of Eastern Visayas State University in Ormoc City

Abstract

Tracking the whereabouts of graduates after completing their degree is essential because it provides concrete evidence of how effectively academic programs prepare students for the demands of the labor market. In the Philippines, the Commission on Higher Education (CHED) mandates the conduct of tracer studies to generate reliable data on graduate employability, program relevance, and institutional performance. Such studies serve as vital feedback mechanisms for higher education institutions, enabling continuous improvement and alignment with industry standards. In this context, the present study examined the employment outcomes of Bachelor of Science in Electrical Engineering (BSEE) graduates of Eastern Visayas State University–Ormoc City Campus from 2018 to 2020. A total of 223 respondents, purposively selected for having undertaken the same curriculum, participated in the study. Data were collected through a structured survey to assess employment status, licensure examination performance, job positions, and the perceived relevance of program outcomes to professional development. Both descriptive statistics and qualitative feedback were analyzed. Findings revealed that a considerable number of graduates had successfully passed the licensure examination and were highly employable across diverse industries. They occupied positions ranging from supervisors, designers, academicians, and staff engineers to technicians. Metro Manila emerged as the primary hub of employment, although a notable proportion were deployed overseas. Respondents recognized that the program significantly contributed to their lifelong learning capacity, critical thinking, problem-solving abilities, and communication skills. The study concludes that the BSEE program has effectively prepared graduates for professional practice. Recommendations include expanding hands-on exposure to modern electrical equipment, integrating industry-standard software, and introducing courses that build supervisory and managerial competencies to further strengthen employability.