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

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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James Karr headshot

My degree has already allowed me to play a more integral part in my company's leadership. The respect and deference a leadership degree from Norwich carries cannot be understated.

James Karr

'22 Master of Science in Leadership

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Archambault ice hockey

Norwich has a strong reputation for leadership development. I knew this program would push me in ways that would benefit me, my career, and my development as a team captain.

Neris Archambault

'25 Master of Business Administration

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Justin Spangler headshot

Norwich stood out to me because it's a place that comprehends the Army lifestyle, and all my professors genuinely invested in my academic success.

Justin Spangler

'24 Bachelor of Science in Strategic Studies and Defense Analysis

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aaron kurschner headshot

Norwich is unique because every course I have taken is full of veterans, like myself, who tend to have valuable and unique life experiences.

Aaron Kurschner

'25 Master of Arts in Global Affairs

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Henry Gonzales headshot

Henry Gonzales

James Karr headshot

James Karr

Archambault ice hockey

Neris Archambault

Justin Spangler headshot

Justin Spangler

aaron kurschner headshot

Aaron Kurschner