Norwich University

Introduction to Norwich University

Capt. Alden B. Partridge originally founded Norwich University in 1819 as the American Literary, Scientific and Military Academy in Norwich, Vermont. The oldest private military college in the country, the U.S. Department of Defense considers Norwich the "Birthplace of ROTC," or Reserve Officers Training Corps.

The goal at Norwich University is to provide a liberal arts education with civil engineering and military science instruction added to the curriculum. In 1825, the school moved to Middletown, Connecticut, but was moved back in 1829. In 1834, the school was recognized and renamed Norwich University. It also became the first school to admit an African-American and female cadets.

Student Life at Norwich University

Many undergraduate students live in one of several campus residence halls. The small population ensures that the student-to-faculty ratio stays small and students receive individual attention. The corps section of the school is like a regiment, overseen by a cadet colonel, with four battalions, each commanded by a cadet lieutenant colonel.

Within each battalion are three companies divided into freshman and upperclassmen, commanded by a cadet captain. Norwich University cadets athletics compete at the NCAA Division III level and the Great Northeast Athletic Conference, while other students participate in around 80 clubs, organizations and professional societies.

FAQs on Norwich University

Is Norwich University Accredited?

Norwich University is accredited by the New England Association of Schools and Colleges through its Commission on Institutions of Higher Education.

What Are Some Requirements for Norwich University?

Admissions to Norwich University is based on high school curriculum, extracurricular activities, teacher recommendations, a personal essay and standardized test scores from the SAT or ACT. Each department has separate additional requirements, such as architecture, which asks for the submission of a creative works portfolio. Prospective students should send over the test scores, recommendations and essay, along with the application itself, official high school transcripts and a nonrefundable fee.

Can I Receive Financial Aid From Norwich University?

Students can fill out the FAFSA form for government funding. Norwich also awards non-federal aid to students through academic and merit based scholarships. Some scholarships include the Norwich Academic Honors Scholarship, the Admiral George Dewey Scholarship, the Elizabeth Good Comolli Scholarship and more.

What Are the Career Possibilities With Norwich University?

Norwich University is noted for the architecture and civil engineering departments, both of which were pioneering programs when the school first began. Many cadets and traditional students opt for liberal arts majors, while others choose academic programs like ROTC. Graduate studies offers several degree programs, including military history, public administration, organizational leadership, information assurance, justice administration, civil engineering and diplomacy.