Employment Trends and Sectoral Integration of Public Administration Graduates: A Tracer Study (2018–2023)

This study examined the employment trends and sectoral integration of Bachelor of Public Administration (BPA) graduates from Davao del Norte State College (DNSC) from 2018 to 2024. Employing a quantitative-descriptive research design, the study surveyed 121 graduates, of whom 103 were employed. Descriptive statistical analysis was utilized to assess employment rates, job-role alignment, and sectoral distribution. Findings indicate that 89.32% of employed graduates secured jobs aligned with their academic background, predominantly in government institutions and industry-specific administrative roles. However, a growing contractual and job-order employment trend among recent cohorts suggests workforce instability. The study validated Human Capital Theory, Credentialism Theory, and Job-Market Signaling Theory, highlighting the influence of academic preparation, civil service eligibility, and professional networking on employment outcomes. Results underscore the need for curriculum enhancements, stronger internship-government linkages, and policy interventions to improve BPA graduates’ workforce integration. These findings contribute to higher education policy-making and public administration workforce development, ensuring alignment between academic training and labor market demands.