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

Norwich made the entire process straightforward, from applying and being accepted to understanding what to expect. The experience has been so positive that it’s truly reignited my passion for learning

Jim Cepeda

'24 MA Military History, '25 MA History — American History Concentration

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Norwich extends the same courtesy to civilians as their military students when careers take you out of town and in areas without Internet. And when times got tough, I followed the Norwich mantra: I WILL TRY.

Jacque Shiner

Master of Public Administration

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Norwich provides the right mix for me to excel in life.

Anh Brown

'19 Master of Science in Leadership

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The staff at Norwich provided great support for when I got married, went on my honeymoon, got promoted and bought a house. I was given time on assignments.

Brian Holcombe

'18 Master of Public Administration

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