From Classroom to Career: Assessing Job Match and Competency Relevance Among Hospitality and Tourism Graduates in the Philippines

Abstract

Graduate employability remains a critical policy concern in the Philippines, where studies indicate a persistent job-skill mismatch despite high enrollment in service-sector degree programs. This tracer study examines the labor market outcomes of 100 graduates (2017–2022) from the Department of Hospitality and Tourism at the University of San Carlos (USC), a CHED-recognized Center for Development. Using the standardized CHED Tracer Study Instrument, the research assesses job match, time-to-employment, and the workplace relevance of program outcomes and competencies. Findings reveal a strong overall job match, with 82% employed and over 50% working in tourism- or hospitality-related fields. All program outcomes—including business knowledge, communication, leadership, and technical competencies—were rated as “very greatly needed” in current roles (mean ≥ 4.27 on a 5-point scale), with no significant differences across programs (p = 0.165). Communication skills (91.9%) and human relations (79.1%) emerged as the most valued competencies in graduates’ first jobs. While these results affirm the program’s alignment with industry demands, the 18% non-employment rate and substantial spillover into non-tourism sectors (e.g., BPO, real estate) signal latent mismatch risks. The study underscores the need for enhanced career counseling, digital upskilling, and longitudinal tracking to ensure sustained graduate relevance in a dynamic labor market