In this subchapter:
(1) “Department” means the Texas Department of Transportation.
(2) “Institution” means an institution of higher education, as defined by § 61.003 of this code, but does not include a medical or dental unit or other agency of higher education.
(3) “Eligible degree” means a baccalaureate degree from an institution in a field of study that satisfies the department’s minimum education requirement for an eligible profession.
(4) “Eligible profession” means the profession of engineering or another profession as defined by department rule for which the department determines there is a need in the department’s workforce.
(5) “Profession” means a state classified position for which the minimum requirements include a baccalaureate degree.