A Tracer Study on the Employment Trends and Decision Drivers of Nursing Graduates (2016-2022) from Cebu Technological University in consortium with Cebu City Medical Center College of Nursing

Abstract

This tracer study delves into the post-graduation trajectories of Bachelor of Science in Nursing graduates from 2016 to 2022, offering a comprehensive snapshot of their demographics, academic achievements, career choices, and professional development. The majority of respondents, predominantly single females residing in Cebu City, Region 7, were influenced by familial ties to pursue nursing, with a notable absence of academic honors during their college years. A significant proportion exhibited a commitment to continuous learning, engaging in advanced studies for career advancement. The study sheds light on the robust employment rates among graduates, with the majority securing roles as staff nurses in the health and social work sectors of the Philippines. Salaries and benefits emerged as pivotal factors influencing both job acceptance and transitions, underscoring their importance in career decisions. While recommendations played a substantial role in facilitating job placements, the study reveals a trend of relatively short job tenures, often lasting between 1 to 6 months. Graduates expressed a perceived relevance of their college curriculum, citing applied competencies such as communication, human relations, problem-solving, critical thinking, and entrepreneurial skills in their initial job roles. The findings provide a nuanced understanding of the multifaceted factors shaping the career trajectories of nursing graduates, offering valuable insights for educational institutions, healthcare industry stakeholders, and policymakers.