Black Hills State University in Spearfish has received a $1.5 million grant from the National Science Foundation for STEM students. “STEM” stands for science, engineering, technology and math.

The program will provide $10,000 per year scholarships to three cohorts of eight low-income students. The students must have a financial need and interests in fields like biology, chemistry and physical science.

Along with scholarships, students will be provided opportunities for faculty mentoring and a STEM Pathways Course. Tutoring, peer instruction, and undergraduate research opportunities are also available.

BHSU raised a further $150,000 for academic scholarships during its annual Scholarship Gala held at the end of July.

“Our academic scholarship program is awarding one-million dollars more than it did prior to the founding of the Gala in 2014, so it is definitely making a difference,” said Steve Meeker, vice president for University Advancement.