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The Aurora State College of Technology has already gone a long way in terms of offering graduate degree programs like Master of Science in Environmental Management. Thus, a graduate tracer study is needed to determine the employment status and/or job performance of its graduates. Results of this study can be used to guide the state college in improving the quality, delivery, and relevance of its degree programs and in formulating strategies to enhance the employability and/or job performance of its graduates.<br/>The Master of Science in Environmental Management (MSEM) graduates and their work supervisors were surveyed in Aurora State College of Technology’s MSEM curriculum. the data were acquired through interview with the MSEM graduates from Batch 2013-2023 together with their work supervisors using questionnaire. The questionnaires were able to collect qualitative and quantitative data on graduates’ socio-demographic profiles, socio-economic, their evaluation to the MSEM curriculum, competencies in work performances, problems encountered, employers’ feedback on the curriculum, and suggestions on the improvement of curriculum. Data was analyzed using frequency count, mean, percentage, ranking, and Likert Scale. The results show that ASCOT has produced graduates who can lead Aurora’s development. Most MSEM graduates work in government agencies and local government units, proving its relevance and efficacy. Graduates said that their degrees were relevant to their careers and provided them skills that improved their work performance. MSEM graduates were also well-regarded by employers for their skills, performance, and ethics. The study used graduate suggestions to strengthen the MSEM program. These suggestions include adding practical experience, improving faculty teaching and learning, integrating IT courses, updating course content, and adding case studies. The program has been updated to meet industry needs better and equip graduates for environmental management employment. Study conclusions suggest numerous recommendations. The ASCOT Graduate School administrators and curriculum planners should evaluate the suggestions and use them to improve the graduate program. Curriculum mapping should be used to align learning outcomes and fill learning gaps. Employer involvement in curriculum creation and internship programs can improve degree relevance and quality. Graduate tracer studies should track graduates’ development, evaluate programs, analyze study circumstances, and devise improvements. |
