ASU is getting almost $4 million in federal grants under a program that aims to keep college affordable and increase quality. 

The Federal Education Department awarded $75 million total to 24 colleges and universities, including ASU. The agency said it got almost 500 applications.

ASU’s program will be run through the Mary Lou Fulton Teachers College. The school says the grant money will be used partly to develop new degrees through which students demonstrate competency through projects in several academic disciplines.

Another aspect will include partnering with the Phoenix Union High School District to transition high school graduates into the university as well as a new mentoring initiative.

ASU is the only school in Arizona to be awarded a grant. Schools in 17 states will get money from the program.