Our online, self-directed prerequisites fit your schedule – no set class time or waiting for a semester to start. You can earn the transferable credit required to advance your professional interests, affordably.
But with a wide range of courses to choose from, you may not know where to start. Here's a look at Portage Learning's most popular ones to help you find the right fit:
Human Anatomy & Physiology I with Lab
This is a common prerequisite for degrees in healthcare such as nursing. You can also take this course to fulfill general education science requirements.
Anatomy & Physiology I defines the human body's structure and function and introduces basic concepts such as:
- The skeletal, muscular, and nervous systems
- Homeostasis
- Cellular and metabolic processes
- Roles of neurons and neurotransmitters
Interactive simulations and virtual labs help you understand how to apply these ideas to real-world scenarios.
Justin Jimawo says the course gave him foundational knowledge.
"It was well-organized, engaging, and helped me build a strong understanding of the human body through clear lessons and practical applications," he recalls in a Google review.
Introduction to Statistics
Statistics teaches you how to collect, analyze, and interpret data that people use to inform predictions and make decisions. Examples include:
- Forecasting weather
- Tracking unemployment rates
- Understanding disease spread
On average, students finish the course in two months and learn:
- How to develop outcome probabilities
- The difference between discrete and continuous probability distributions
- Type I and II errors
- And more
Anyone who took algebra II in high school, or the college equivalent, may register for Introduction to Statistics at Portage Learning.
Microbiology with Lab
This course covers key topics about microorganisms, including:
- Morphology, or their shape and structure
- Physiology, or how they function
- Genetics, or traits passed down through their genes
Chrissy Marty, a former student, believes those pursuing a health science degree benefit from its focus on pathogens.
"The diversity in teaching, from written content to lectures and activities, created a very effective learning environment," she says. "Coupled with the fact that it's online and at your own direction resulted in me getting an A. I understand the content well, and I would highly recommend for nursing program prerequisites."
You'll earn four credits and know how to:
- Identify and define the basic building blocks of life
- Explain the biochemical and enzymatic mechanisms underlying cellular metabolism and energy utilization
- Outline the techniques and strategies used to control microbial growth in laboratory settings
General Chemistry I with Lab
This course is designed to provide you with a solid base for further study in the sciences.
It comprehensively covers topics essential to understanding chemistry including, but not limited to:
- Chemical reactions
- Stoichiometry
- Thermochemistry
- Atomic structure
The department includes 13 professors widely regarded as experts in their field.
You can message them via your student dashboard to further explain material you don't understand or to ask questions. They also provide regular feedback on your work and grade exams within 72 hours so you can stay on track with your academic goals.
Human Anatomy & Physiology II with Lab
Anatomy & Physiology II builds on what you learned in the first course.
Detailed instruction and demonstration during its lab translate your deeper understanding into practical action so you can:
- Outline the composition of blood vessels and the structure and function of the circulatory system
- Describe the mechanisms by which the body maintains fluid, electrolytes, and acid-base balance and what happens if these levels become unbalanced
- Explain the roles of the digestive system's anatomical features and the processes associated with digestion
You must pass Anatomy & Physiology I before enrolling.
General Psychology
Ever wonder why you do what you do?
This course teaches basic psychology concepts and principles. You'll analyze and critique the field's major theories too.
Learning about human behavior develops critical thinking and communication skills needed for your career – no matter the industry.
General Chemistry II with Lab
Andrew Fletcher describes this course as an "excellent" way to further your knowledge of chemistry.
"I needed the flexibility of [Portage's] self-directed, online format to complete a prerequisite class in a short amount of time," he states. "The faculty designed and executed a great course and were always available for feedback when needed. This was a very satisfying experience."
It expands on the topics learned in Chemistry I, allowing you to:
- Analyze acid-base properties and perform pH and titration calculations
- Connect chemical principles to real-world applications in energy, materials, and biological systems
- Explore the structure and function of organic compounds
High-Quality, Engaging Courses – No Matter the Subject
Portage Learning provides an educational experience that exceeds most online and classroom counterparts in both curriculum and grading standards.
"We are very intentional and aim to create an ideal experience," Dr. Diana Rice, vice president of academic affairs, says. "Student needs serve as the basis for our courses."
In a survey of colleges and universities around the nation that accept credit earned through the accredited institution, 94 percent of respondents say those who complete one of Portage Learning's courses perform as well as or better than their peers.
"We identify the core components that someone should learn and form our objectives," Dr. Rice explains. "What is it that we want students to take away and what do we want them to master? Then we figure out what activities they should be doing and the right way to assess them."
Portage Learning professors offer more than 650 years of combined experience, and they design each course to ensure you learn the material needed for your future. As another benefit, the student success team walks alongside you as you work through it too, providing:
- Time management guidance
- Grade calculations
- Scheduling
- Study skills
- And more
"Portage Learning is a way to move forward," Dr. Rice emphasizes, "and be supported by people while you're moving forward."
A win-win, for sure.
(Ready to begin? Enroll in a Portage Learning course today and start tomorrow! Credit earned transfers to more than 2,800 colleges and universities nationwide.)
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