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

Dan Bastie headshot

The program seemed like a perfect combination of a tradition I could be proud of and a modern educational platform I could manage in my day-to-day craziness.

Dan Bastie

'21 Master of Public Administration

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Michael's photo

I enjoyed the diversity of backgrounds of both my professors and fellow students, which allowed me to really expand my breadth of understanding outside of the military.

Michael Allard

'15 Master of Science in Organizational Leadership

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April Grace Kelly headshot

Norwich exceeded my expectations when it came to the online degree program. It is very organized and efficient, setting me up for success throughout the entire process.

April Grace Kelly

'24 Bachelor of Science in Business Administration

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Bridget Schwab headshot

I plan to use my degree as a catalyst in leadership advancement in my career.

Bridget Schwab

'24 Master of Science in Leadership

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mease image

For me, the biggest thing was the interaction with the faculty. They provide individualized feedback, advice, and concern for every student. Norwich makes online students feel just as valued as those attending classes on campus.

Thomas Mease

‘25 Master of Arts in Military History

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Dan Bastie headshot

Dan Bastie

Michael's photo

Michael Allard

April Grace Kelly headshot

April Grace Kelly

Bridget Schwab headshot

Bridget Schwab

mease image

Thomas Mease