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

Ralph M Zecca headshot

The program created an environment that allowed for honest academic exchange and debate. It forced you to know your material and know it well.

Ralph M. Zecca, Jr.

'25 Master of Arts in Military History

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Sean Freitag headshot

The way the SSDA program was tailored to the Special Operations community appealed to me because the courses were all applicable.

Sean Freitag

'13 Bachelor of Science in Strategic Studies and Defense Analysis

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Emily Oliver headshot

I will use this degree to advance my career in the future and take on further leadership roles.

Emily Oliver

'22 Master of Business Administration

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Kyle Hippley headshot

I felt comfort in knowing that most of the online program's leadership and administration are the same professionals working at the traditional Norwich campus.

Kyle Hippley

'22 Master of Science in Nursing

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Matthew Higbee headshot

I wanted to earn an advanced degree; I always want to learn more and Norwich offered me an advantageous way in which to enhance my understanding of the field.

Matthew Higbee

'15 Master of Arts in Military History

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Ralph M Zecca headshot

Ralph M. Zecca, Jr.

Sean Freitag headshot

Sean Freitag

Emily Oliver headshot

Emily Oliver

Kyle Hippley headshot

Kyle Hippley

Matthew Higbee headshot

Matthew Higbee