FACTORS AND CHALLENGES AFFECTING THE CAREER CHOICE OF BSBA GRADUATES

The study examined the career paths of Bachelor of Science in Business Administration (BSBA) graduates from Biliran Province State University, specifically focusing on the graduates of the academic year 2022–2023. The aim was to understand the factors influencing their career decisions and the challenges they encountered in entering the workforce. A descriptive research design was used, involving 167 graduates as respondents. Data were gathered through a structured questionnaire and analyzed using frequency, percentage, and weighted mean to assess socio-demographic profiles, employment status, influencing factors, and employment-related challenges. The results showed that most of the graduates were young, single, and employed full-time, although a significant number worked in jobs not entirely aligned with their degree. Family financial status emerged as a key influence in shaping their career decisions, more so than direct parental expectations. Graduates also indicated that job availability, industry demand, and opportunities for growth were among the most important factors affecting their employment choices. There was a clear preference for full-time work with stable income and benefits. Challenges faced by the graduates included limited work experience, competition in a saturated job market, and a mismatch between academic training and industry-required skills. Internship experience was noted as highly beneficial in securing employment, while many also pursued additional certifications to meet job requirements. Overall, the findings suggest that BSBA graduates are practical in their career planning, often balancing personal interests with job market realities. Their experiences highlight the need for stronger industry-academic and community linkages, enhanced internship programs that aligned the program, entrepreneurship incubator system, and updated curricular offerings that reflect current employment demands.