Title: EVALUATING CAREER PATHS AND EDUCATIONAL OUTCOMES: A TRACER STUDY OF ACCOUNTANCY GRADUATES AT THE UNIVERSITY OF CEBU – LAPULAPU AND MANDAUE S.Y. 2019-2024
Author: Exequiel C. Cruspero, JR. and Kingie G. Micabalo
Abstract:

Graduate employability and curriculum relevance remain essential indicators of higher education effectiveness, making it necessary to assess how well academic programs prepare students for real-world professional demands. In this context, this study aimed to trace the career paths and educational outcomes of Bachelor of Science in Accountancy (BSA) graduates of the University of Cebu – Lapulapu and Mandaue from School Year 2019–2024. Specifically, it sought to identify the graduates’ demographic characteristics, employment status, reasons for pursuing the program, competencies developed during college, and their perceptions of curriculum relevance to current employment. Utilizing a mixed-method research design, both quantitative and qualitative data were gathered from fifty (50) graduates selected through simple random and snowball sampling. Data were collected via Google Forms and analyzed using frequency, percentage, and thematic analysis. The findings revealed that most graduates are employed in positions related to their degree, affirming the strong alignment between academic preparation and job placement. Critical thinking, problem-solving, and communication emerged as the most developed competencies, while entrepreneurial and technological skills showed areas for improvement. Moreover, graduates expressed that practical learning, soft skills, and continuous curriculum updates are vital for enhancing employability. The study concluded that the Accountancy program of the University of Cebu–Lapulapu and Mandaue successfully prepares graduates for employment, with most securing jobs aligned with their field. Graduates affirm the program’s effectiveness in developing essential competencies such as critical thinking, problem-solving, and communication. However, the study highlights the need to further enhance entrepreneurial skills, soft skills, and practical learning to keep the curriculum responsive to industry demands.

Keywords: Tracer study, employability, accountancy graduates, mix-method, Mandaue City, Philippines
DOI: https://doi.org/10.38193/IJRCMS.2026.8435
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Date of Publication: 05-08-2026
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Published Vol & Issue: Volume 8 Issue 4 July-August 2026