Do You Need to Be in the Military?

Although Norwich is famous for its Corps of Cadets and military lifestyle on campus, civilian students thrive here, too. Our online student population is a mix of both military-affiliated students and others with no military connections at all.

For 200 years, Norwich University’s Guiding Values and mission have helped create an atmosphere of excellence. We are the nation’s oldest private military college and the birthplace of ROTC, serving a diverse student body that reflects the world today, civilian, military career-focused, and online.

The simple answer is no, you do not need to be in the military or associated with the military in any way to be a Norwich Online student.

Since 1997, our online student body has been composed of people from all over the world. Our students are business professionals, servicemembers on deployment, federal, state or city employees looking to advance their careers, veterans, first responders, hobbyists, and so much more! Offering bachelor's degrees, master's degrees and professional development certificates, Norwich Online graduates build upon their Norwich educations to launch or grow careers and make outsized contributions to their communities, the nation and the world.

Student Testimonials

King hockey

The online format helps me to learn everything. There's no stress about getting assignments in because you have a week to do everything. It's great.

Olivia King

'25 Master of Business Administration

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Jaivean Mensie headshot

My time at Norwich provided me with a new perspective on international relations, the country, and myself. I will cherish the memories, lessons, and achievements from being a Norwich student.

Jaivean M. Mensie

'25 Master of Arts in International Relations

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Tim Strong

Where Norwich says to excel, you do excel. Not only was I challenged, but I also achieved a level of comprehension and academic understanding that over my 40 years of government service, I thought I would never meet.

Tim Strong

'19 Master of Arts in Strategic Studies

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aaron kurschner headshot

Norwich is unique because every course I have taken is full of veterans, like myself, who tend to have valuable and unique life experiences.

Aaron Kurschner

'25 Master of Arts in Global Affairs

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Ethan Jensen headshot

By gaining my degree from Norwich, I was able to commission in the Air Force and become a pilot.

Ethan Jensen

'22 Master of Arts in Strategic Studies

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King hockey

Olivia King

Jaivean Mensie headshot

Jaivean M. Mensie

Tim Strong

Tim Strong

aaron kurschner headshot

Aaron Kurschner

Ethan Jensen headshot

Ethan Jensen