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

Inspired by her husband's Marine Corp. career and her interest in military history, Jessica Colon finds opportunities and confidence through Norwich's military history program.

Jessica Colon

'19 Master of Arts in Military History

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My master’s degree from Norwich was hugely important. It helped me succeed at the Pentagon and provided the foundation for the career I have now.

David Ortiz

'98 BS in Physics & '06 MS in Information Assurance

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My degree will provide me with the deeper insight I need as an HR executive to make effective organizational design and leadership decisions over the years to come.

Conor Sweeney

'25 Master of Business Administration

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