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

Rob Freas headshot

I would likely not have been accepted into the Army without Norwich on my resume. I am incredibly thankful for that.

Rob Freas

'22 Master of Arts in International Relations

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Sophia Righthouse uniform

There’s a difference between undergrad and grad, primarily because it's online and it's a lot more self-paced and self-studied. I think that what has really helped is that your classmates and the teacher are very accessible.

Sophia Righthouse

'26 Master of Arts in International Relations

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Deborah Yemisi Ayodele headshot

Norwich University has made me a better person. I have gained up-to-date knowledge that I wouldn’t trade for gold.

Deborah Yemisi Ayodele

'21 Master of Science in Cybersecurity

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Benjamin Robert Bradley headshot

As the tagline for Norwich University says, "Expect Challenge. Achieve Distinction," do expect challenge, but also expect to be supported by your fellow classmates and instructors along the way.

Benjamin Robert Bradley

'24 Master of Science in Cybersecurity

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catherine_murtagh-schaffer image

I didn't choose Norwich; it chose me. I liked Norwich's unique military history, which I thought would provide a different perspective on world views.

Catherine Murtagh-Schaffer

'22 Master of Arts in Diplomacy

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Rob Freas headshot

Rob Freas

Sophia Righthouse uniform

Sophia Righthouse

Deborah Yemisi Ayodele headshot

Deborah Yemisi Ayodele

Benjamin Robert Bradley headshot

Benjamin Robert Bradley

catherine_murtagh-schaffer image

Catherine Murtagh-Schaffer