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

Benitha's photo

The faculty provided a learning experience that was student-centered and rich with support. I believe that I am well prepared to take on the new challenges ahead in my career as a nurse educator because of the education that I gained at Norwich University

Benitha Garrett

'15 Master of Science in Nursing: Healthcare Systems Leadership

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Henry Gonzales headshot

Norwich is unique as its military history program not only touts its toughness but also backs it up.

Henry Gonzales

'24 Master of Arts in Military History

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Michele Turner, CGCS alum

What made Norwich stand out was that when I looked through the information, it wasn’t just structured as a checklist of academic requirements, there was really a sense of family.

Michele Turner

'12, Master of Science in Business Continuity

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Morgan Gosling headshot

I achieved a dream that seemed so far away and impossible as a child. Norwich helped me realize a lifetime dream.

Morgan Gosling

'22 Master of Arts in Military History

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Matthew Hecht

This program exposed me to a broad perspective and made me think outside my small box.

Matthew Hecht

'22 Master of Science in Leadership

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Benitha's photo

Benitha Garrett

Henry Gonzales headshot

Henry Gonzales

Michele Turner, CGCS alum

Michele Turner

Morgan Gosling headshot

Morgan Gosling

Matthew Hecht

Matthew Hecht