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

Eric Dembinski headshot

I appreciated Norwich University's military culture, and they easily transferred much of my military experience into course credits to complement my degree.

Eric Dembinski

'25 Bachelor of Science in Strategic Studies and Defense Analysis

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Justin Spangler headshot

Norwich stood out to me because it's a place that comprehends the Army lifestyle, and all my professors genuinely invested in my academic success.

Justin Spangler

'24 Bachelor of Science in Strategic Studies and Defense Analysis

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Michele Turner, CGCS alum

What made Norwich stand out was that when I looked through the information, it wasn’t just structured as a checklist of academic requirements, there was really a sense of family.

Michele Turner

'12, Master of Science in Business Continuity

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Terry Cole headshot

Now that I have completed the Strategic Studies and Defense Analysis program, I will be continuing my studies with Norwich into the Master of Arts in Diplomacy program. I owe the credit to Norwich for giving me the desire to continue my education.

Terry Cole

'12 Bachelor of Science in Strategic Studies and Defense Analysis

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Connor LaClair headshot

Diplomacy fascinates me. In today’s uncertain world, proven and competent diplomats have never been needed more.

Connor LaClair

'18 Master of Arts in Diplomacy

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Eric Dembinski headshot

Eric Dembinski

Justin Spangler headshot

Justin Spangler

Michele Turner, CGCS alum

Michele Turner

Terry Cole headshot

Terry Cole

Connor LaClair headshot

Connor LaClair