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

John Joseph Baranowski headshot

I have grown both professionally and personally. I have a much-improved grasp of history as a profession and feel very confident in my ability to teach history at the college level.

John J. Baranowski

'24 Master of Arts in Military History

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Student Ashley Blevins and her spouse

Norwich helped me build my knowledge and confidence in the supply chain industry. I was very overwhelmed when I started my new job, but using what I've learned in class has helped me succeed in my new profession.

Ashley Blevins

'22 Master of Business Administration

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Roy Charles Parker Jr headshot

This program allowed me to see the value of studying topics sometimes separated from the twentieth century by a great deal of time and space.

Roy Charles Parker Jr.

'22 Master of Arts in Military History

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Julie Scribner

One of the key things to me for having a Norwich education is the name that comes with it; there’s pride and tradition that comes with having a Norwich University diploma.

Julie Scribner

'15 Bachelor of Science in Criminal Justice

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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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John Joseph Baranowski headshot

John J. Baranowski

Student Ashley Blevins and her spouse

Ashley Blevins

Roy Charles Parker Jr headshot

Roy Charles Parker Jr.

Julie Scribner

Julie Scribner

Ralph M Zecca headshot

Ralph M. Zecca, Jr.