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

Michael Blair headshot

The leadership program was a natural fit as an officer in the Air Force, helping me become a better leader now and in future opportunities after the military.

Michael Blair

'19 Master of Science in Leadership

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Stephan's photo

was able to work through multiple obstacles of life while working full time that requires bi-monthly travel, writing course papers on the airplane, and meeting family obligations.

Stephan Bohanan

'15 Computer Forensics and Incident Response Management

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Aimee Plude headshot

The online program is built for busy professionals who have families and full-time jobs. The program's flexibility meant I could work classes into an already busy schedule.

Aimee Plude

'22 Master of Business 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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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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Michael Blair headshot

Michael Blair

Stephan's photo

Stephan Bohanan

Aimee Plude headshot

Aimee Plude

Andy Blanco headshot

Andy Blanco

Rob Freas headshot

Rob Freas