Key Takeaways
- Dr. Ken Hartman founded Portage Learning in 1972.
- Portage Learning an accredited institution offers online college courses including science labs that you can complete on your own schedule.
- Credits earned through Portage Learning courses transfer to more than 2 800 institutions nationwide.
Dr. Ken Hartman at his home in 2025.
A great education doesn’t always happen in a classroom.
Portage Learning understood that early on – and shaped a trend in academia long before the era of taking a college course via Zoom or earning your degree remotely.
The result? Countless students gaining real opportunities for professional success.
What Is Portage Learning?
Portage Learning helps students achieve their educational dreams by offering online college courses, including science labs, in subjects such as:
Its self-directed format allows you to start at any time and learn from anywhere rather than be constrained by a semester system.
Students can affordably build a foundation, supplement current courses, or accelerate toward an advanced degree.
Is Portage Learning Legitimate?
Yes. Students who pass courses receive credit through Geneva College and Bushnell University, Portage Learning’s accredited partner institutions, which transfer to more than 2,800 colleges and universities such as:
- Baylor University
- University of Arizona
- University of Kentucky
Portage Learning itself maintains full accreditation through the Middle States Association Commission on Secondary Schools (MSA-CSS), the highest level available for nondegree awarding institutions. The U.S. Department of Education recognizes MSA-CSS as an accrediting body.
How Long Has Portage Learning Been Operating?
Portage Learning started in 1972.
The institution initially offered instruction in person but as word spread about the excellence of its courses, Portage Learning began to reach students by videotape, then via email, and now through cutting-edge technology.
In addition to 50-plus years of delivering a high-quality online education, the institution’s professors bring more than 650 years of combined experience.
That type of expertise ensures you reliably learn the material needed for your future career.
Portage Learning Founder
Dr. Ken Hartman founded Portage Learning in 1972 when he answered a call from a local nursing program.
Dr. Ken Hartman during his days as a Geneva College professor.
Fifteen women wanted to enroll but they lacked adequate knowledge in chemistry – a subject Dr. Hartman knew plenty about. He earned an undergraduate and a doctoral degree in chemistry and taught it at Geneva College.
“Sure,” he recalled saying in an interview last year. “I’d be glad to do that. Just give me their names and contact information. I’ll call them up and set up a class.”
As the years went on, his family played a role in the institution’s growth.
Ken’s son, Nate, became its first webmaster.
Libby and Kara, his daughter and daughter-in-law respectively, taught courses.
Son-in-law Steve Michalik eventually ascended to the role of president.
Ken believes that family spirit defines the Portage Learning experience.
Though courses run entirely online, students never navigate their journey alone. A dedicated professor, student services team member, or another resource stands ready to help at every turn. Personal connection remains at the heart of everything the institution does.
“I know I’m the founder of Portage Learning, but it really just happened,” Ken states. “This is (all) just truly amazing. It really is.”
How Portage Learning Got Its Name
Ken’s wife, Dee, coined Portage Learning’s original name, Nursing ABC, with each letter representing the subjects he initially taught:
- Algebra
- Biology
- Chemistry
But as enrollment expanded and a new government mandate to extend the length of schooling for nursing candidates went into effect, Nursing ABC began doing business as Portage Learning. An Ohio-based advertising agency came up with that name.
“Nursing ABC is the name of the company, Portage Learning is how we deliver the college courses,” Ken explains. “Portage means to carry a boat from one body of water to another. That fits with how we carry students to their next program.”
Other Major Milestones in Portage Learning’s History
Here’s a glance at the institution’s other notable moments:
- 1972: Portage Learning then Nursing ABC founded by Dr. Ken Hartman.
- 2003: Riley Hoselton a former student of his hired to teach.
- 2005: Nursing ABC receives its MSA-CSS accreditation.
- 2010: Elaine Fry brought on as the first Portage Learning faculty member.
- 2011: Renee Correll designs curriculum for the first Human Anatomy & Physiology I with Lab course which remains the most popular course at Portage Learning.
- 2011: Partnership established with Geneva College.
- 2023: Portage Learning granted use of a .edu domain.
- 2023: Dual enrollment courses offered to high school students.
- 2025: Partnership with Bushnell University established.
Portage Learning Reviews and Student Outcomes
Hanna Shin completed seven courses needed for her nursing program through Portage Learning.
She describes it as a “very positive experience” and would recommend it to anyone.
“The self-directed format gave me the flexibility I needed, and the course material was organized, clear, and manageable, even with a heavier load,” Hanna writes.
But the best part? The professors.
Her review of the institution goes on to praise one in particular, Dr. Debbie Schratz, saying, “She responded quickly, graded promptly, and communicated in a supportive and professional way. Having an instructor who was so attentive made a huge difference.”
Portage Learning maintains a 4.9 out of 5-star review on Google, reflecting high levels of satisfaction and support. Here’s what other students say:
- “Caring instructor who clearly explained course material. Happy I took a class with Portage.” – Allison Ryan
- “It has been extremely convenient being able to take classes from home and work on them on my own time. That flexibility really helps when you have a busy schedule.” – Caridad Medina
- “My professor was exceptional. They answered all inquiries I had in a timely manner. If I was stuck they would offer guidance and useful feedback.” – Dylan Gonzales
- “I am a morning person so I was able to study and absorb the material when I learn best. I attended a large highly ranked undergraduate school (top 50) and the courses I have taken so far are comparable in quality.” – Chelsea Warren
- “Helpful for taking prerequisites! Instructors responded in a timely manner. Also saw that you can take these courses for dual high school/college credit so that’s cool.” – Caleb De Leon
And it’s not just students who feel this way.
Each year, the institution surveys colleges and universities around the nation that admit people who complete a Portage Learning course.
The most recent findings revealed 94 percent of respondents perceived the students to perform as well or better than their peers.
“A lot of our students loved the connection they made with their professors at Portage Learning,” Brian Lee, senior assistant director for transfer and international recruitment at Shenandoah University in Winchester, Virginia, says. “They tell us how easy it is (to move through the modules), how flexible it is, and they really enjoy the courses.”
He adds, “It’s something we feel we can put our brand behind because Portage does such a great job with our students.”
The Past – And Present for Portage Learning
During a period when everyone thought education could only be obtained within four walls, Portage Learning believed differently.
The institution implemented a model that adapts to a student’s individual goals, price point, and schedule – rather than forcing you to follow its format.
And that spirit of innovation extends beyond online education. Several initiatives reflect Portage Learning’s commitment to access, opportunity, and care, including:
- Solange Film Festival: Elevates voices and stories that deserve to be heard through an annual independent film showcase in Pittsburgh Pennsylvania.
- Portage Community: Provides academic support financial aid professional development and mentorship to local and international nursing and medical students.
- Campañero de Esperanza: Delivers free medical and dental services to residents of Los Memisos Santana Dominican Republic.
- Learning Lighthouse: A child development center that equips the next generation with the knowledge and confidence needed to thrive in elementary school and beyond.
As the institution grows, its founding conviction only deepens.
Real education meets students wherever life takes them.
