Graduate Employability and Workforce Integration: A Tracer Study of Office Administration Alumni in a Philippine State University

This study examines the employability and workforce integration of graduates from the Bachelor of Science in Office Administration (BSOA) program at Negros Oriental State University (NORSU) Main Campus I, focusing on cohorts from 2022 to 2024. Employing a descriptive quantitative research design, data were collected through an online survey adapted from the Commission on Higher Education’s (CHED) tracer study instrument. A stratified sample of 100 graduates provided information on their demographic and educational profiles, employment status, job search experiences, workplace competencies, and challenges in securing employment. Results indicate that a majority secured full-time employment within three months of graduation, primarily in private and government sectors, with most entry-level roles aligning with their academic training. Core competencies such as professionalism, communication, and interpersonal skills were rated highest in workplace relevance. However, challenges such as labor market competition and limited certification credentials persist. The findings underscore the need for continuous curriculum enhancement, targeted training in leadership and entrepreneurship, and stronger industry-academe linkages. The study contributes to graduate employability literature and offers data-driven recommendations for program development and policy formulation in higher education institutions.