Tracer Study of Social Work Graduates at University of Cagayan Valley

Abstract

The increasing demand for qualified social workers underscores the importance of evaluating graduate employability and academic satisfaction. This study aimed to assess the employability of Social Work graduates from the University of Cagayan Valley and evaluate their satisfaction with the Social Work program. A mixed method specifically descriptive evaluative research design was utilized. Participants included Social Work graduates from academic years 2017–2018 to 2021–2022. Using stratified random sampling, 111 out of 154 graduates were selected to participate. Data were gathered through a structured survey questionnaire and analyzed using descriptive statistics.

Findings showed that 91 (81.98%) of the respondents were gainfully employed, with 77 (69.35%) holding positions directly related to their Social Work degree and related fields. Additionally, 91 (81.97 %) successfully passed a professional licensure examination, with the majority becoming registered social workers. Graduates rated their overall satisfaction with the Social Work program as “very satisfactory,” indicating positive perceptions of the curriculum, instruction, and institutional support.

The high employment and licensure rates among Social Work graduates, along with their strong program satisfaction, reflect the effectiveness of the University of Cagayan Valley’s Social Work program in preparing students for professional practice. These results highlight the program’s relevance and alignment with workforce demands in the field of social work