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
Everyone at Norwich was great. Even the admissions office and registrar went above and beyond to help me get through it.
Emerson Sullivan
'18 Bachelor of Science in Criminal Justice
Read Story
I enjoy studying with students who are also veterans and learning from military leaders. What sealed the deal was Norwich's online cybersecurity program. I was able to transfer most of my credits and found working with the faculty to be very easy.
Jared Fox
'25 Bachelor of Science in Cybersecurity
Read Story
I expected to be pushed to become a better student and researcher. It worked; Norwich made me into a historian.
Albert Russell Thompson Jr.
'12 Master of Arts in Military History
Read Story
My degree has already allowed me to play a more integral part in my company's leadership. The respect and deference a leadership degree from Norwich carries cannot be understated.
James Karr
'22 Master of Science in Leadership
Read Story
I want to teach at a private school at the secondary level. A Master of Arts in Military History degree is a catalyst for doing so. As the birthplace of ROTC, I could think of no better place to matriculate.
James T. Finn
'25 Master of Arts in Military History
Read Story
Emerson Sullivan
Jared Fox
Albert Russell Thompson Jr.
James Karr
James T. Finn