Why do different agencies use different definitions of STEM jobs?

The lack of a universally accepted definition for STEM jobs stems from the absence of a standardized framework, leading various government agencies to adopt criteria that reflect their specific analytical goals and priorities.1

Because there is no common consensus, agencies categorize STEM occupations differently based on their intended focus:1

• The U.S. Department of Commerce (DOC): Their criteria emphasize specialized knowledge rather than formal academic credentials, such as a baccalaureate or graduate degree. The DOC categorizes STEM into four specific areas: computer and math, engineering and surveying, physical and life sciences, and STEM management, while explicitly excluding education and social science.1
• The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS): In contrast, the BLS has utilized a broader classification developed by a working group of government representatives. This list includes 96 occupations divided into domains that incorporate social science and education fields, as well as architecture and health-related occupations.1

Ultimately, these discrepancies arise because agencies prioritize different aspects of the workforce, ranging from technical skill requirements to broader professional domains.1