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

Tim Strong

Where Norwich says to excel, you do excel. Not only was I challenged, but I also achieved a level of comprehension and academic understanding that over my 40 years of government service, I thought I would never meet.

Tim Strong

'19 Master of Arts in Strategic Studies

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Jessica Rivait headshot

Norwich is unique in that it supports students across the country and provides a strong foundation for education both in person and online.

Jessica Rivait

'24 Master of Science in Nursing: Nurse Educator

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Jayna Guilford headshot

Norwich has given me the confidence to achieve my dreams, to not be afraid to excel, and to step out of my comfort zone. Norwich challenged me to think outside the box and to learn how to follow, because leading isn’t always the right place for me.

Jayna Guilford

'16 Master of Business Administration

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Ryan Paul headshot

Norwich has proven to be up to the challenge of teaching foundational concepts while ensuring content remains relevant to today’s environment.

Ryan Paul

'21 Master of Science in Information Security & Assurance

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russel holter headshot

The Norwich academics and disciplined curriculum challenge students to achieve a higher, more professional standard in their research and deliverables.

Russell Holter

'22 Master of Arts in History

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Tim Strong

Tim Strong

Jessica Rivait headshot

Jessica Rivait

Jayna Guilford headshot

Jayna Guilford

Ryan Paul headshot

Ryan Paul

russel holter headshot

Russell Holter