§18C-6-2. Definitions.

When used in this article the following terms have the following meanings, unless the context clearly indicates a different meaning:

"Eligible institution of higher education" means a state institution of higher education as defined in §18B-1-2 of this code; and Appalachian Bible College, Bethany College, Davis and Elkins College, the University of Charleston, West Virginia Wesleyan College, and Wheeling University, all in West Virginia, and any other institution of higher education in this state, public or private, approved by the commission: Provided, That if any institution listed in this paragraph is not accredited by an accreditor approved by the United States Department of Education, it shall not be included as an eligible institution.

"Industry-based certification" means any special certification required, necessary or deemed preferred for employment in the field.

" "STEM" or STEM-related field" means a major in biological sciences, chemistry, computer science, physics, engineering, physical sciences, or mathematics at an eligible institution of higher education or any other academic program identified as a "STEM field" by the federal Department of Homeland Security or other appropriate federal agency.