In an effort to increase the number of women in the science, technology, engineering and mathematics (STEM) fields, Notre Dame of Maryland University plans to award up to $10,000 in scholarships.

The financial assistance will be provided to undergraduates in the university's Women's College through the school's Pathways to Excellence program. This initiative is made possible through a four-year National Science Foundation (NSF) grant worth $452,050.

In order to be eligible for the scholarships, students must be pursuing degrees in STEM fields, such as physics, computer information, engineering and mathematics. The program will select up to 10 individuals from a pool of current and prospective pupils who also meet the eligibility requirements that have been established by the NSF.

Furthermore, students who are allowed to participate in this program will receive a faculty, peer and alumni mentors.

"Notre Dame has excelled at preparing women for careers in math and science for 116 years, and countless alumnae have gone on to make great strides as scientists, engineers, researchers, nurses and teachers," said Mary Pat Seurkamp, president of the university.