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

Jeremy Faller headshot

Continuing my coursework while deployed to Jordan in 2020 was difficult for so many reasons. Norwich instructors were very understanding and, at times, helped me get through it one day at a time.

Jeremy Faller

'24 Bachelor of Science in National Security Studies

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Laurel Ghose

I remember speaking to one of the administrators when asking about different programs, and when they mentioned the nursing component at Residency, I literally got goosebumps, and I knew then that this was the right program for me.

Laurel Ghose

'19 Master of Science in Nursing: Healthcare Systems Leadership

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andy anderson headshot

A master’s degree transformed me into an even more effective international military operations planner and provided a broader strategic perspective in future assignments with a focus on international security.

Andy B. Anderson

'19 Master of Arts in International Relations

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Matthew Higbee headshot

I wanted to earn an advanced degree; I always want to learn more and Norwich offered me an advantageous way in which to enhance my understanding of the field.

Matthew Higbee

'15 Master of Arts in Military History

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Edith Koumbairia headshot

One thing I’m grateful for is the opportunity that the online program offers to people like me who would not have pursued a degree without flexibility. I do not regret one bit of my decision to pursue an online program.

Edith Koumbairia

'20 Master of Arts in International Relations

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Jeremy Faller headshot

Jeremy Faller

Laurel Ghose

Laurel Ghose

andy anderson headshot

Andy B. Anderson

Matthew Higbee headshot

Matthew Higbee

Edith Koumbairia headshot

Edith Koumbairia