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

Derynioski headshot

I’m most proud of being recognized as a person people come to for insights that can’t just be Googled. I can give someone the feel for what’s normal when we’re looking at another country. What should be expected, and what should raise questions.

Kirsten Derynioski

'06 Master of Arts in Diplomacy

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Jessica Rivait headshot

Norwich is unique in that it supports students across the country and provides a strong foundation for education both in person and online.

Jessica Rivait

'24 Master of Science in Nursing: Nurse Educator

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Jessica Moisan headshot

I feel confident that my Master of Science in Leadership degree from Norwich may catch an eye of a future employer who knows about the values of the University as well as its history.

Jessica Moisan

'19 Master of Science in Leadership

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Rob Freas headshot

I would likely not have been accepted into the Army without Norwich on my resume. I am incredibly thankful for that.

Rob Freas

'22 Master of Arts in International Relations

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Gonzalo Ciurlizza photo

The academic programs at Norwich mold their students into technical experts who become strong leaders serving in their respective fields.

Gonzalo Ciurlizza

'23 Master of Science in Information Systems

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Derynioski headshot

Kirsten Derynioski

Jessica Rivait headshot

Jessica Rivait

Jessica Moisan headshot

Jessica Moisan

Rob Freas headshot

Rob Freas

Gonzalo Ciurlizza photo

Gonzalo Ciurlizza