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Master of Arts in Defense Policy

Grow Your Career in the Interests of National Defense

You know that insightful and influential policymakers at the highest levels of national defense remain vital to the protection of the United States and its citizens and to the diplomatic presence of the U.S. abroad. Prepare to take on advisory and supervisory roles with the Department of Defense and other government agencies, independent contractors, think tanks and organizations in the defense industry with the Norwich University online Master of Arts in Defense Policy program. Gain the research, analytical and communications skills to think and act decisively in critical, real-world defense scenarios from one of only a few master’s-level programs. 

Norwich is dedicated to your career success. Learn from expert faculty of retired military and defense personnel, as well as academic specialists. You will be able to easily balance school, work and military schedules with a flexible online learning platform.

If you are a military veteran, a professional seeking to advance your current career in non-combat military roles or a civilian working in the Department of Defense, the State Department or defense-related industries, a master’s in defense policy is a crucial next step to achieving your goals. Learn to evaluate significant trends in defense policy as it relates to human rights, international law, intelligence, kinetic operations, diplomacy, conflict management and interagency activities with coursework grounded in historical context. You will gain a graduate-level understanding of the current security environment, national and international defense policies, defense strategies and decision-making methodology.

Norwich’s Defense Policy Graduate Certificates:

Use your certificate towards a master's degree.

If you are considering exploring a graduate program, you can build the same valuable field expertise in six months with Norwich’s graduate-level certificates. To ensure your progress never goes to waste, the 12 graduate-level credits earned can be applied toward the Master of Arts in Defense Policy program, allowing you to take the next step in your academic journey on your terms.

Norwich’s defense policy certificate programs include:

Next Graduate Session Start Dates:

WINTER: November 17, 2025

SPRING: February 16, 2026

SUMMER: May 25, 2026

Next Graduate Session Application Deadlines:

WINTER: November 7, 2025

SPRING: February 6, 2026

SUMMER: May 15, 2026

Quick Info

100%

Online

Courses completed entirely online

24/7

Access

Access the online classroom anywhere, anytime

11.2k

Graduates

Over 11,000 previous online students

Alumni Testimonials

Hartley 2016 Computer Security & Information Assurance Major

In high school, Joshua Hartley defended attacks on the gridiron as an offensive lineman. At Norwich, the computer programming phenom studied network defense for malware, cyber attacks, and other malfeasance as a CSIA major.

Joshua Hartley

'16 Computer Security & Information Assurance

Read Story
Student Ashley Blevins and her spouse

Norwich helped me build my knowledge and confidence in the supply chain industry. I was very overwhelmed when I started my new job, but using what I've learned in class has helped me succeed in my new profession.

Ashley Blevins

'22 Master of Business Administration

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Gabriela Patterson headshot

Changing careers in my 30s was hard, but doing this degree has helped tremendously. Without this program, it would have taken me longer to gain the knowledge base I needed to be proficient and excel in the cybersecurity field.

Gabriela Patterson

'22 Master of Science in Cybersecurity

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Ryan Leonard

Every advisor, teacher, and counselor throughout my degree completion was heavily invested in helping me succeed in the classes and helping me to craft and refine the skills [needed] for a career in national security.

Ryan Leonard

'21 Bachelor of Science in National Security Studies

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Matt Fitzsimmons headshot

It's my educational goal to pursue a doctorate degree. Earning a master's degree is the first step.

Matt Fitzsimmons

'18 Master of Arts in Military History

Read Story
Hartley 2016 Computer Security & Information Assurance Major

Joshua Hartley

Student Ashley Blevins and her spouse

Ashley Blevins

Gabriela Patterson headshot

Gabriela Patterson

Ryan Leonard

Ryan Leonard

Matt Fitzsimmons headshot

Matt Fitzsimmons

Faculty & Staff

Admissions Details

At a Glance

No GRE/GMAT required Undergraduate GPA of 2.75 or higher

 

 

Contact Admissions

Monday - Friday: 8 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. EDT     
Extended hours available by appointment

Call: 1-888-409-1480   
learn@norwich.edu

Transfer Credits


You may receive the equivalent of up to 12 semester credits for study conducted elsewhere. Norwich complies with VA regulations and guidelines as it pertains to transfer credits. 
Learn more »

International Admissions


Norwich University welcomes students from all countries who want to study through our online programs. You must complete all steps in the admissions process. 
International Admissions »

Norwich Alumni Benefits


Reconnect with Norwich to complete your master's degree. As apart of our alumni community, you are eligible for a $2,500 scholarship and other benefits. 
Connect with our advisors »

Non-Discrimination Statement

Norwich University, in compliance with Title IV of the Civil Rights Act of 1964, Title IX of the Education Amendment of 1972, and Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973, does not discriminate on the basis of race, religion, color, national origin, age, sex, or physical handicap in any of its policies, practices, or procedures.

NECHE Accredited

 Norwich University is accredited by the New England Commission of Higher Education (formerly the Commission on Institutions of Higher Education of the New England Association of Schools and Colleges, Inc.).

Eligibility Requirements

  • A bachelor's degree from a regionally or nationally accredited U.S. institution, or an equivalent degree from a foreign institution, as evaluated by a NACES approved agency. 
  • If English is not your first language, proof of English language proficiency is required. This can be demonstrated in one of three ways:
    • TOEFL - a minimum score of 550 (paper-based test) or 80 (Internet-based test) is required.*
    • IELTS – a minimum composite score of 6.5 is required.*
    • The applicant holds a baccalaureate or master’s degree from a college/university/institution in which the primary language of instruction was English.

Please Note:  All eligibility requirements are expected to be met unless noted in specific articulation agreements or memoranda of understanding (MOUs).

Application Process

We encourage you to contact an admissions advisor (see below) if you need help at any stage of the application process. You will be required to submit the following items:

  • Application form
  • Official transcript of your undergraduate degree from a regionally or nationally accredited university, mailed to the address below.
  • Proof of English language proficiency if applicable (TOEFL)

Transcript Links

Mail transcripts to:
Norwich University
ATTN: CGCS
158 Harmon Drive
Northfield, VT 05663

For electronic delivery, we accept transcripts delivered from Parchment, National Clearing House, and other services if sent to cgcsamt@norwich.edu via password protection.

To contact an admissions advisor:

Call: 1-888-409-1480
Email: learn@norwich.edu

When applying for a graduate program at Norwich University, there are two essential factors to consider: what does it cost, and how can you pay for it? There are many ways to get financial assistance and several financial strategies that can help you achieve your academic and professional goals. We are here to help you identify and pursue the options that are best for you.

Tuition at a Glance
Credit Hours: 36
Cost Per Credit Hour: $599 - $698
Additional fees & military discounts may apply.


Financial Aid Resources
Paying for your Education

Program Requirements

Norwich's defense policy program is one of a few master's-level programs in the country and is designed to prepare students for advisory and leadership roles throughout the defense industry. Norwich’s online master’s courses are delivered over 11 weeks at a time, and the typical program completion time is 18 months.

For full course listings, requirements, and registration information, head to the Norwich University Course Catalog.