Tracer Study Reveals that IPB University Graduates are Absorbed Into The Workforce in Less Than Four Months
The success of graduates is not solely measured by how quickly they find employment, but by their readiness to make a real contribution. Tracer study data shows that IPB University graduates enter the workforce within an average of 3.9 months after graduation, with relevant and sustainable competencies.
A tracer study is a survey or research method conducted by higher education institutions to track graduates one to two years after graduation. The aim is to collect data on employment activities, curriculum relevance, and alumni competencies in the workforce for the purpose of evaluating improvements in education quality.
Rector Dr Alim Setiawan Slamet said that this achievement was the result of IPB University’s educational design, which is integrated with industry, government, research institutions, and the community.
According to the Rector, through a collaborative curriculum, contextual learning, and the strengthening of industry-based competencies, IPB University is able to prepare students to become professionals, innovators, entrepreneurs, and leaders in various strategic sectors.
“Since their studies, students have been involved in real projects, internships, collaborative research, and solving real problems in the field, which is reinforced by mastering technical and non-technical skills through a flexible learning scheme,” he said.
Microcredential Programme
One of these enhancements is realised through a microcredential programme for students. Since November 2023, IPB University has subscribed to 20.000 LinkedIn Learning accounts that students can access for free, 14.000 of which are provided to undergraduate and D4 students in their third semester and above.
This programme provides access to over 21.500 courses and professional certifications offered by global providers such as Microsoft, Google Cloud, Adobe, Oracle, and Intuit.
The certificates and skills acquired by students are automatically integrated into their LinkedIn profiles, making them immediately visible to employers and talent hunters. There are five learning areas that are most popular among IPB University students: Microsoft Excel, Project Management, Data Analysis, Artificial Intelligence for Business, and Artificial Intelligence.
Job Waiting Period < 4 Months
Strengthening digital and professional competencies contributes directly to the job readiness of IPB University graduates. Based on tracer study data from 2023–2025, the average job waiting period for graduates was recorded at 3,9 months after graduation.
Of the graduates surveyed, 57,3 per cent were employed; 4,3 per cent were entrepreneurs; and 13,3 per cent were continuing their studies; with 44,3 per cent of them pursuing careers in their field of study.
The Excellence of IPB Graduates
The quality of IPB University graduates is also reflected in the 2025 Graduate User Survey. Users assess the main strengths of IPB University graduates to lie in their teamwork skills, mastery of information technology, and field-based expertise. Graduates are considered capable of contributing from the start of their employment, understanding the field context, and demonstrating a commitment to quality and sustainability.
IPB University views graduate success not only in terms of the speed at which they find employment, but also in terms of career diversity and sustainability. IPB University graduates develop as professionals, researchers, innovators, civil servants and policy planners, as well as technology, social and environmental entrepreneurs.
Through project based learning, multi-stakeholder collaboration, and the strengthening of the entrepreneurial ecosystem and micro-credential programmes, IPB University positions entrepreneurship as a career path that is equal and strategic to the professional path. This approach prepares graduates not only as job seekers but also as job creators and drivers of the local economy.
User surveys also show the excellence of IPB University graduates in leadership, decision-making, communication, as well as social sensitivity and sustainability. These advantages are competencies that set them apart amid the dynamics of the world of work, digital transformation, and the demands of sustainable development.
“With a broad career spectrum and strong graduate absorption, IPB University is committed to preparing young people who are ready to face global challenges and make a real contribution to food security, the environment, and Indonesia’s development,” said the Rector.
This commitment, continued Dr Alim, is reflected in the work of IPB University alumni who are able to make a direct impact on society, one example being the development of sweet potato exports to Malaysia and Singapore involving local farmers. This initiative is led by Ilham Indanu Sitepu, an alumnus of the Department of Islamic Economics at IPB University, class of 57, and CEO of One Village One CEO (OVOC). Ilham is a young alumnus who graduated in 2024. (dr) (IAAS/LAN)
