TSD Tracer Study

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• The Turin School of Development (TSD), operating under the ITCILO, offers a range of Masters programmes designed to combine theoretical knowledge with practical skills. 

• During a TSD portfolio analysis process that took place in 2024, a follow-up survey of the Masters Programmes student cohort 2021- 2022 was conducted. More than 70% of all respondents flagged their willingness to participate in tracer studies as part of a more systematic follow-up evaluation exercise. This result demonstrated a strong willingness from the TSD alumni to positively contribute in the foreseen student-centered, data-driven TSD quality assurance process.

• This Tracer Study marked an important step in the ongoing evaluation and quality assurance enhancement plan. Conducting a tracer study for the Masters programmes is a comprehensive way to evaluate its effectiveness at the outcomes level.

• The purpose of the tracer study was to assess the effectiveness of the Masters programmes in facilitating the career development and success of its graduates, and to emphasize the need to understand alumni experiences, employment outcomes, and perceptions of the programmes’ strengths and areas for improvement.

• The study focused on graduates of the 2021-2022 and the 2022-2023 cohorts of the Masters programmes as well as a sample for the 2023-2024 cohort, and utilized a mixed-method approach, including quantitative surveys and qualitative interviews with alumni and current students. The data collection focused on employment outcomes, skills application, satisfaction levels, and specific feedback on the curriculum and programme delivery.

Alumni Employment and Career Advancement: The tracer study showed that most TSD alumni were employed in fields closely related to their studies, with many reporting concrete career progression after graduation. Alumni described gaining greater professional visibility, increased responsibility in their roles, and improved performance in recruitment processes. In several cases, the Masters qualification contributed directly to promotions, job transitions, or expanded mandates within national administrations, international organizations, academia, and the private sector.

Satisfaction Levels: Overall satisfaction with the TSD Masters Programmes was high, with the majority of alumni indicating that the programmes met or exceeded their initial expectations. Graduates particularly valued the academic rigor, the expertise of lecturers and practitioners, and the balance between theory and practice. At the same time, feedback pointed to manageable areas for improvement, including workload intensity during certain phases and the desire for a broader range of case studies and perspectives.

Skills and Competencies: Alumni consistently highlighted the development of analytical and critical thinking skills, policy analysis, project design and management, and sector-specific technical competencies. Many reported applying these skills directly in their professional contexts, such as drafting policies, managing projects, advising decision-makers, or contributing to research and teaching. The ability to translate theory into practice emerged as a key outcome of the programmes.

Curriculum and Delivery: Feedback suggested the need for clearer preliminary information on workload and learning expectations, particularly for working professionals. Alumni also emphasized the importance of consistent attendance to strengthen group cohesion and learning dynamics. There was a recurring call to diversify lecture content and case studies beyond EU and US contexts, as well as interest in extending the face-to-face phase to allow deeper engagement with course material.

Communication and Networking: Alumni reported that both formal and informal interactions with peers were a significant added value of the Masters experience. Networking across disciplines, regions, and professional backgrounds was seen as beneficial for learning and career development. Many graduates recommended expanding opportunities for interaction among participants from different TSD Masters programmes to further strengthen cross-disciplinary exchange and professional networks.

Innovative Teaching Methods: The study highlighted growing interest among alumni in exploring more innovative teaching and assessment approaches. Suggestions included moving beyond traditional examination formats, increasing practice-based and project-oriented learning, and experimenting with digital tools, including artificial intelligence where relevant. These innovations were seen as ways to better reflect the evolving professional environments graduates operate in and to support applied learning.

• The tracer study confirmed that the TSD Masters Programmes had a strong positive impact on graduates’ careers and professional development. Alumni reported high levels of satisfaction, with 90% indicating that the programmes met or exceeded their expectations. Many graduates have advanced to higher positions or moved into roles better aligned with their career goals, attributing these achievements to the knowledge and skills gained during their studies.

• The findings also highlighted the relevance and practical applicability of the curriculum, with around 85% of respondents applying newly acquired knowledge in their professional or academic work. Study tours, field visits, and hands-on learning experiences were particularly valued, as they effectively complement theoretical learning. In addition, the international and multicultural learning environment was widely appreciated for enhancing peer exchange, networking, and global perspectives.

• While overall feedback was highly positive, the study identified areas for improvement, including the need for more efficient administrative processes, expanded networking opportunities, increased practical exercises, and better coordination of lecture content.

• Case studies and interviews further illustrated the diverse and tangible ways in which the programmes have benefited graduates, reinforcing the overall conclusion that TSD Masters Programmes are effective, relevant, and impactful.