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

Norwich has had a profound impact on my personal and professional life. It gave me the confidence to pursue goals that once felt out of reach, like earning my degree while serving full-time in the Coast Guard and preparing for Officer Candidate School.

Emily Max

'25 Bachelor of Science in National Security Studies

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The prestige and heritage of Norwich stood out. Plus, having a vast majority of its professors either being active duty or retired military truly helps those who are still in the military.

John Didier

'25 Master of Arts in Strategic Studies

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"Though I was initially frustrated by returning to school, I am grateful for what I learned. I also plan to explore career paths in government analysis that draw on critical thinking.""

Mitchell Tray

'26 Master of Arts in Military History

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"I did it, I got my master's degree from a prestigious university. My sense of achievement skyrocketed. I am extremely proud of my accomplishment as well, my classmates."

Jacob Jarodsky

'26 Master of Arts in Military History

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