Academic Preparation to Professional Practice Transition of BEED Graduates: Basis for Policy Recommendation

The transition from academic preparation to professional practice is a critical indicator of an institution's efficacy. This study determines the alignment between the Bachelor of Elementary Education (BEED) curriculum at Luna Colleges and the professional trajectories of its graduates from 2021 to 2025. Anchored on the Human Capital Theory, the research explores how educational "investments," specifically pedagogical skills and competencies, translate into professional "returns" such as stable employment, licensure, and leadership roles. The primary objective is to evaluate the curriculum relevance and identify factors influencing the career advancement of alumni in an evolving educational landscape. Utilizing a descriptive research design aligned with an Input-Process-Output (IPO) model, the study gathered empirical data using a structured tracer instrument. The input phase examined institutional variables and graduate profiles; the process utilized tracer mechanisms to evaluate curriculum relevance and transition challenges; and the output focused on policy recommendations for continuous institutional improvement. The findings provide critical data-driven insights for Higher Education Institutions (HEIs), school administrators, faculty members, policymakers, and future undergraduate students. By bridging the gap between classroom instruction and workplace demands, the results serve as a foundational guide for Luna Colleges to refine pedagogical strategies, enhance program relevance, and ensure that future educators are fully equipped for successful careers in elementary education.