A tracer study of Master of Library and Information Science (MLIS) graduates of Central Philippine University, Iloilo City

Abstract

This tracer study was conducted to trace the graduates of Master of Library and Information Science (MLIS) Program of Central Philippine University from the 2nd Semester 2008 – 2009 up to Summer 2017. A researcher-made instrument was administered to all 50 graduates of the MLIS program. The findings revealed that most of the respondents were females, married and graduates of the BSED-BEED degree. The largest MLIS enrollment was recorded on the 1st Semester SY 2006 – 2007 with 13 enrollees, and the biggest number of graduates was in 2nd Semester SY 2009 – 2010 with 15 graduates. Self-fulfillment was the principal reason for the respondents who were able to graduate on time but since most of the respondents were full-time workers, they were able to finish the program within four to six years upon enrollment. They cited conflict with work was the most common reason for them not to finish on time. Changes in status pertaining to job position and rank, monthly salary, career development before, during and after graduating with an MLIS degree were determined and results showed that mostly all of the respondents were able to elevate their respective status in the areas stated above. Respondents perceived that the relevance of their acquired knowledge and skills from the MLIS program in the practice of librarianship are very relevant to their present jobs and that they greatly benefitted from it as professionals.