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

Brian Holcombe portrait

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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Andy Blanco headshot

The time requirements of an active-duty couple with family life are not easy, but the reputation of Norwich to both demand rigorous academic effort while also accommodating the demanding schedule of an active-duty professional was tough to ignore.

Andy Blanco

'24 Master of Arts in Strategic Studies

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James T Ryan headshot

Norwich’s program stands out because of its flexibility, highly knowledgeable faculty, and willingness to accommodate working professionals’ schedules and family commitments while pursuing their educational goals.

James T. Ryan

'24 Master of Business Administration

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Jie Yang headshot

As a child, I wanted to become a teacher someday. Now, thanks to the wonderful guidance and education I received from Norwich's faculty, staff, and colleagues, I can finally make my childhood dream a reality.

Jie Yang

'24 Master of Science in Leadership

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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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Brian Holcombe portrait

Brian Holcombe

Andy Blanco headshot

Andy Blanco

James T Ryan headshot

James T. Ryan

Jie Yang headshot

Jie Yang

aaron kurschner headshot

Aaron Kurschner