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

elliott moya headshot in police uniform

As Chief of Police, I have always believed in leading by example, and continuing my education allows me to bring fresh perspectives and strategies to the complex challenges we face in public service.

Elliott Moya

'25 Master of Public Administration

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Ty Sbano black hat confrence

Achieving a 4.0 while working, coaching, and managing limited sleep was deeply fulfilling. The rigor and resilience Norwich demanded prepared me well for the next chapter of my career.

Ty Sbano

'13 Master of Science in Information Assurance

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James T Finn headshot

I want to teach at a private school at the secondary level. A Master of Arts in Military History degree is a catalyst for doing so. As the birthplace of ROTC, I could think of no better place to matriculate.

James T. Finn

'25 Master of Arts in Military History

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Tiffany Jones Headshot

Norwich helped me enhance the knowledge I already had from my over twenty years of experience and undergrad course work and apply it.

Tiffany Jones

'22 Master of Science in Cybersecurity

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Adam Rice headshot

The program seemed well situated for someone with a professional career and was relatively self-paced.

Col Adam Rice

'24 Master of Arts in Strategic Studies

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elliott moya headshot in police uniform

Elliott Moya

Ty Sbano black hat confrence

Ty Sbano

James T Finn headshot

James T. Finn

Tiffany Jones Headshot

Tiffany Jones

Adam Rice headshot

Col Adam Rice