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

Matt Fitzsimmons headshot

It's my educational goal to pursue a doctorate degree. Earning a master's degree is the first step.

Matt Fitzsimmons

'18 Master of Arts in Military History

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Natasha Starceski headshot

I chose Norwich because it offered something rare and distinguished among U.S. graduate fields. Norwich offered a unique chance to study the art, science, and vast applicability of diplomacy that I could not find anywhere else.

Natasha Starceski

'25 Master of Arts in Diplomacy

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Matthew Hecht

This program exposed me to a broad perspective and made me think outside my small box.

Matthew Hecht

'22 Master of Science in Leadership

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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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catherine_murtagh-schaffer image

I didn't choose Norwich; it chose me. I liked Norwich's unique military history, which I thought would provide a different perspective on world views.

Catherine Murtagh-Schaffer

'22 Master of Arts in Diplomacy

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Matt Fitzsimmons headshot

Matt Fitzsimmons

Natasha Starceski headshot

Natasha Starceski

Matthew Hecht

Matthew Hecht

Christopher Jackson headshot

Christopher Jackson

catherine_murtagh-schaffer image

Catherine Murtagh-Schaffer