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Research Details

Research Title Employability of Physical Therapy Graduates (2008-2012) of Mariano Marcos State University)
Researcher(s) Cheryll Didi Nellie N. Obra
Research Category Study
Research Status completed
Duration Mar 01, 2014 to Jun 30, 2014
Commodity Health
Research Site(s) Mariano Marcos State University
Source of Fund(s) GAA-Fund 101
Abstract

The study aimed to collect data on the board exam performance and employability of graduates to provide empirical evidence regarding the professional relevance of the physical therapy program at present. A cross-sectional descriptive survey of physical therapy graduates from 2008 to 2012 was conducted. There were 110 graduates out of 147 (response rate of 74.83%) who participated. The survey package consisted of a self-administered questionnaire and a cover letter sent through courier or social network sites like Facebook and YahooMail.

As regards board exam performance, a high number of graduates passed (97). Notably, the university garnered recognition as Top 1 physical therapy school nationwide in 2009 and 2012. Batches 2009 to 2012 successfully passed the board exam taken after graduation due to enhanced faculty profile, Technical Competency Enhancement Program implementation, and better internship affiliation centers.

There were 98 graduates presently employed, 64 of them were into clinical practice. Nearly two-thirds were locally employed (65.62%) while others were employed abroad (34.38%). Majority were working in the private sector (89.47%). About 51% graduates had their first job within 1-6 months and received their first income that ranged from 5,000 to 10,000 pesos. Cited reasons for unemployment were applying still, pursuing higher studies, marital and motherhood duties.

The university has offered quality education as shown by the commendable high passing percentage in the board exam. The university has produced industry-ready graduates employed locally and abroad reflecting the relevance of the physical therapy program. It is recommended that the university should be more aggressive in tracing graduates to collect more empirical data to evaluate the transition of its graduates in the labor market.