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

Nathan Chang headshot

Norwich’s online program fit perfectly for my lifestyle. It allowed me to continue working full-time to provide for my family while obtaining additional skillsets that would assist me in moving up within my firm.

Nathan Chang

'21 Master of Business Administration

Read Story
Adam Johnson headshot

I chose Norwich because of the ability to take classes at my own pace while maintaining a full-time job.

Adam Johnson

'25 Master of Business Administration

Read Story
hero image

I think the most unique part about Norwich is the people. The faculty are outstanding. I couldn't tell you how much time and energy my professors gave me to help me prepare for my future career.

Meghan Rioux

'16 Computer Forensics and Incident Response Management

Read Story
adam thompson norwich university sign

With Norwich, I was applying what I learned immediately. There’s value in academic rigor. It’s not for everybody, and that’s part of the appeal.

Adam Thompson

'20 Bachelor of Science in Strategic Studies and Defense Analysis

Read Story
Tiffany Sakhana Peterson headshot

Personally, the [history] program renewed my interest in research, critical thinking, and writing.

Tiffany Sakahar-Peterson

'17 Master of Arts in History

Read Story
Nathan Chang headshot

Nathan Chang

Adam Johnson headshot

Adam Johnson

hero image

Meghan Rioux

adam thompson norwich university sign

Adam Thompson

Tiffany Sakhana Peterson headshot

Tiffany Sakahar-Peterson