Norwich University is proud to be the birthplace of America’s Reserve Officers’ Training Corps, celebrating over 100 years of commissioned officer development.
The Reserve Officers’ Training Corps (ROTC) is a college elective that develops leadership skills in our students as they prepare for Military Service in the Army, Navy, Marines or Air Force. Norwich University is the birthplace of ROTC and the first of six Senior Military Colleges in the United States today.
ROTC is one of the best leadership courses in the country and can be a key component of your college curriculum and Corps of Cadets experience at Norwich through our College of National Services. Through classes, leadership labs and field training, ROTC provides you with the tools and experiential learning to become an officer or an ensign without interfering with your other classes or athletics.
The Possibilities Are Endless
ROTC provides you with structure, discipline, values and leadership skills critical to career success, and money for tuition, while enhancing your overall college experience. In exchange for a paid college education and a guaranteed post-college career, participants, or cadets, commit to serve in the military after graduation. As a graduate of a Senior Military College, a medically-qualified cadet successfully completing all ROTC requirements is virtually assured of obtaining an active duty commission. And, when you leave “The Hill” you’ll join a family of alumni making extraordinary contributions in the military and government, well prepared and ready for any challenge your future may hold.
Start Strong
Before your arrival at Norwich, do your homework and check out each service’s website. Talk with friends and family who are in service. Or, simply call or email our ROTC Branch POCs and our ROTC leadership will welcome your questions.
As you begin your path at Norwich as a first-year Norwich cadet, or “rook,” you will have face-to-face opportunities to align with a branch of service, and can adjust your service goals as your understanding and professional aims develop. The ROTC military service teams work closely together to ensure all Norwich cadets meet their professional goals and will guide you along the way.