Eight Pennsylvania colleges are getting grants as part of a $50 million national science initiative.
 
The Howard Hughes Medical Institute announced Thursday it has selected 47 small colleges and universities nationwide to receive grants aimed at creating more engaging science classes, bringing real-world research to students and increasing diversity.
 
The Chevy Chase, Md.-based institute says each four-year grant is in the range of $800,000 to $1.5-million. The winners in Pennsylvania are: Allegheny College, Bryn Mawr College, Franklin & Marshall College, Gettysburg College, Juniata College, Lafayette College, Swarthmore College and Ursinus College. With eight winners, Pennsylvania had more than any other state.
 
The institute says the grants are geared toward preparing undergraduates to become K-12 teachers, improving curricula and creating research experiences, among other things.