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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vincent cold headshot

The professors became my mentors and gave me an edge in conducting viable academic research that will pay dividends throughout my next career.

Vincent Cole

'22 Master of Arts in History

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Taylor Bergeron profile

Norwich's professors are some of the best people I have dealt with. They are extremely professional but also care about your development and success.

Taylor Bergeron

'25 Master of Business Administration

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Stephen Bryan headshot

The academic requirements were appropriately demanding, the faculty was first-rate, and my fellow students brought shared interests and tremendous experience to the discussions.

Stephen Bryan

'23 Master of Arts in Military History

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Alec Faryniarz headshot

Norwich’s MBA program prepared me for the challenges of my current job but also gave me the skills I’ll need later in my career.

Alec Faryniarz

'21 Master of Business Administration

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Brian Holcombe portrait

Brian Holcombe

vincent cold headshot

Vincent Cole

Taylor Bergeron profile

Taylor Bergeron

Stephen Bryan headshot

Stephen Bryan

Alec Faryniarz headshot

Alec Faryniarz