Career Outcomes and Employment Profiles of Bachelor of Industrial Technology Major Architectural Drafting Technology Graduates in the Philippines

Abstract

This study aimed to examine the employment profiles of graduates from the Bachelor of Industrial Technology (BIT) programme, specialising in Architectural Drafting Technology (ADT), at Iloilo Science and Technology University from 2015 to 2024. Specifically, it sought to analyse graduates’ demographic characteristics, employment status, job alignment with their field of specialisation, and the relevance of the academic programme to their current occupations. The study also evaluated graduates’ perceptions of institutional factors, including physical facilities, support services, personal satisfaction, and retrospective assessment of their educational experiences. A descriptive survey research design was employed, using a modified questionnaire based on the Commission on Higher Education tracer study format aligned with Outcomes-Based Education (OBE) standards. The snowball sampling technique was utilised to gather data from 223 graduates, enabling the study to reach respondents across different cohorts and employment contexts. Findings revealed that while a significant proportion of graduates are employed and generally satisfied with the programme, variations exist in the alignment of their jobs with their field of specialisation. The results further indicate that core competencies such as technical skills, problem-solving, and adaptability contribute to employability; however, certain areas—particularly experiential learning components, instructional strategies, and physical learning environments—require enhancement. Additionally, moderate ratings in some programme aspects suggest the need for stronger alignment with industry standards and evolving professional demands. The results of this Graduate Tracer Study (GTS) provide empirical evidence to support curriculum review, policy formulation, and institutional planning. These findings serve as a basis for continuous programme improvement to ensure responsiveness to labour market needs and compliance with regulatory requirements. Overall, the study affirms that while the BIT-ADT programme remains relevant, flexible, and generally satisfactory, targeted improvements are necessary to further strengthen graduate outcomes and institutional effectiveness.