If you’re a paraprofessional or instructional aide looking to earn your teaching degree online, the choices can feel overwhelming. Most programs advertise flexibility, affordability, and accreditation. But what really matters when you’re balancing work, family, and your future?
Western Governors University (WGU) might be one of the biggest names in the space, but there are important factors it doesn’t offer—especially for students who crave structure, real support, and faith-aligned learning.
Here are 5 things to look for in an online education program—and how Gracelyn University was designed to meet those needs.

1. Real Support (Not Just “Mentor Check-Ins”)

Many online programs, including WGU, offer periodic mentor calls or automated emails. But when you’re stuck on an assignment or unsure how to move forward, that’s not enough.
At Gracelyn, students are assigned a real success coach who sticks with you from start to finish—and instructors who provide clear feedback and weekly guidance. You’ll never have to figure it out alone.

👉 Meet our team and support model

2. Weekly Structure That Keeps You Moving

Self-paced learning sounds good in theory, but it often leads to procrastination, confusion, and course delays. WGU’s model places the full burden on students to stay on track.
Gracelyn combines weekly pacing and simple course layouts with the flexibility to study when you can. That means you’ll always know what’s expected and never lose momentum.

👉 Explore Gracelyn’s online degree programs

3. Flexible Student Teaching Support

Many students discover late in the game that WGU’s student teaching model requires them to take time off work—with no pay.

Gracelyn is different. We partner with schools and districts to help paraprofessionals and aides complete their student teaching without sacrificing income. Our team works with you to find practical, approved solutions.

4. Transparent, Affordable Tuition

WGU’s per-term pricing can be appealing—but if you don’t complete enough credits in a term, the cost per course can skyrocket.
Gracelyn offers flat-rate monthly pricing for our bachelor’s program and a total-cost guarantee for our master’s with certification track:

  • Bachelor’s: $111–$222/month
  • Master’s + Certification: $7,174 total

No surprises. No extra fees.

👉 See Gracelyn’s full tuition breakdown

5. A Program That Aligns With Your Calling

Your work in education is more than a job—it’s a mission. At Gracelyn, we teach every course from a biblical worldview and focus on preparing educators who lead with excellence and compassion.
If you want a program that strengthens your skills and your spirit, you’ll feel at home here.

What’s Missing From Most Online Programs? Personalization.

You deserve more than a digital dashboard and a checklist.
You deserve someone who knows your name. Who checks in when you’re stuck. Who believes in your potential as a future teacher.
That’s what Gracelyn offers.

🎯 Let’s create a plan together: gracelyn.edu/transfer4teachers