Stephen F. Austin State University is at the top of a recently released ranking from the publication Nonprofit Colleges Online that lists the 30 best education schools at nonprofit colleges. The “Students before Profits” award series highlights different college majors at institutions that provide a high-quality education that is also affordable for students. To qualify for the list, colleges and universities had to be regionally accredited, be official “nonprofit” entities, and offer tuition that is lower than typical college rates.

In second place is the University of Washington and Southern Oregon University took third place. Some other names on the list include the University of Florida, Notre Dame College, the University of Massachusetts and Mississippi State University. You can see the full ranking at Nonprofit Colleges Online.

According to the publication, education degrees were highlighted this time around because there are not many completely online programs in the field, which could discourage prospective educators in the process. By pointing out affordable options throughout the country, the ranking hopes to encourage those who are on the fence about a degree in education.

“We hope this award will draw attention to some of the lesser known, but high quality and affordable nonprofit options available to prospective education students,” said Brett Gershon, editor of the rankings.

Teaching is one profession that is notoriously low paying, especially in the early years, compared to the cost of training required. By pointing out affordable options for students, this ranking will hopefully encourage some talented young educators to take the next step and obtain their degrees.