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

Christopher Jackson headshot

I use the research, analysis, and writing skills honed through my classwork at Norwich daily.

Christopher Jackson

'22 Master of Arts in History

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aiden maher headhot

I use the skills and knowledge I learned every day as a teacher and coach.

Aiden Maher

'25 Master of Science in Management

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Sheyenne Schwenck, her husband and child.

"The support and understanding from my professors stood out the most—they worked with me during a challenging time and helped me stay on track."

Sheyenne Schwenck

'26 Master of Public Administration

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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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Jesse Havard portrait

It has allowed me to have a rather seamless transition from active duty to the civilian sector and rise above my peer group into senior management.

Jesse Havard

'18 Master of Business Administration

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Christopher Jackson headshot

Christopher Jackson

aiden maher headhot

Aiden Maher

Sheyenne Schwenck, her husband and child.

Sheyenne Schwenck

Henry Gonzales headshot

Henry Gonzales

Jesse Havard portrait

Jesse Havard