Employability of Agricultural Engineering Graduates from the College of Engineering and Agro-industrial Technology, University of the Philippines Los Baños

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M.F. Gallardo, M.T. Quimbo, R.O.Dela Cruz, E.P.Serrano, M.Y. Castro

Abstract

The Master of Science in Agricultural Engineering (MSAE) and Doctor of Philosophy in Agricultural Engineering (PhDAE) curricular programs of UPLB-College of Engineering and Agro-industrial Technology (CEAT) were assessed through determining the employability of the graduates from Class of 2010 to Class of 2020. Using the general systems theory perspective, both quantitative and qualitative analysis were conducted through a non-experimental, self-administered online survey. This is to determine the competencies developed by the AE graduates through their programs and its relevance to their current jobs. The profile of the respondents showed a relatively high attraction of AE programs from different areas in the Philippines. There is high employment rate of the AE graduates at 93.1%. Majority were employed within 6 months after graduation, mostly working in the academe as faculty members, researchers, engineers, and project staff. This signifies their marketability due to the trainings and competencies acquired during graduate study. AE graduates acknowledged that they have developed values and skills that proved useful in their current jobs. Values developed were Competence (86.21%), followed by Confidence (82.76%), and Diligence and Commitment (both with 77.59%). Some respondents also developed Patience, Integrity, and Excellence, which they listed as among other values. Evaluating the AE graduate curricular programs through the employability of the graduates shows that the feedback of an organization’s output (graduates) is important in improving and strengthening an institution’s educational system and services. Recommendations and suggestions to improve the curriculum can be made based on the needs and demands of the respondents accordingly.

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