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

I was able to apply the skills that I learned and bring several large bureaucratic organizations together to reach a common goal.

Kevin Boyd

'13 Master of Arts in Diplomacy

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I have always dreamed about graduating from Norwich University. Going to college was always on my bucket list and this was my motivation.

Kelley Lawrence

'16 Bachelor of Science in Criminal Justice

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I've been able to participate in everything with my team, even show up early and do stuff with them and have fun. It’s nice to know I can juggle both. Like, hey, it's not as hard as people are trying to tell you it is.

Carlie Henning

'25 MS Criminal Justice

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I want to teach at a private school at the secondary level. A Master of Arts in Military History degree is a catalyst for doing so. As the birthplace of ROTC, I could think of no better place to matriculate.

James T. Finn

'25 Master of Arts in Military History

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