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Norwich University

Northfield, VT

private nonprofitgraduate

Quick Facts

Essayons(I Will Try)

1819
Founded
Private senior military college
Type
2,490
Total Students
2,642
Undergrad
632
Graduate
$214M
Endowment
$50K
Tuition (In-State)
$50K
Tuition (Out-State)
$26K
Avg Net Price
74%
Acceptance Rate
61%
Graduation Rate
6-year
69%
Retention Rate
Master's Colleges & Universities
Classification

Data from Wikipedia (CC BY-SA 4.0) & U.S. Dept. of Education

About Norwich University

Norwich University: America's first senior military college, shaping leaders since 1819.

Norwich University stands as a beacon of leadership and military education, proudly recognized as the oldest of the nation's six senior military colleges and the "Birthplace of ROTC." Nestled in Northfield, Vermont, this private university has been committed to developing principled leaders for over two centuries, blending a rigorous academic curriculum with a distinctive military lifestyle.

The university's foundation in 1819 by Captain Alden Partridge, former superintendent of West Point, was revolutionary. Partridge envisioned an "American System of Education" that combined liberal arts, civil engineering, and military science, designed to cultivate a well-trained citizenry rather than an aristocratic officer class. This pioneering approach not only established Norwich as a unique institution but also inspired the creation of numerous other military colleges and served as a model for land-grant universities across the United States.

Today, Norwich offers a robust academic experience through its Corps of Cadets and the College of Graduate & Continuing Studies. Aspiring cadets undergo a transformative "Rookdom" program, molding civilians into disciplined leaders ready for the challenges of military or civilian life. Beyond commissioning paths in various U.S. Armed Forces branches, Norwich also boasts historical academic achievements, including establishing the nation's first civil engineering program in 1826. Its alumni network is a testament to its success, boasting over 138 flag officers, numerous foreign generals, and eight Medal of Honor recipients, showcasing the profound impact of a Norwich education.

For students and families seeking an institution that instills character, leadership, and a commitment to service, Norwich University offers an unparalleled experience. With a steadfast motto of "Essayons" (I Will Try), Norwich continues its legacy of fostering individuals who are prepared to make a significant difference in the world.

Key Highlights

  • Founded in 1819, it is the oldest of six senior military colleges in the U.S.
  • Recognized by the U.S. Department of Defense as the "Birthplace of ROTC."
  • Pioneered the first program of courses in civil engineering in the U.S. (1826).
  • Alumni include over 138 flag officers in the U.S. Armed Forces and 8 Medal of Honor recipients.
  • First senior military college to admit women into its Corps of Cadets (1974), predating federal service academies.
  • Motto: "Essayons" (I Will Try), reflecting a spirit of determination and service.
  • Private university with a $0.2 billion endowment and 3,274 students (as of Fall 2023).

Timeline

1819
Founded as the "American Literary, Scientific and Military Academy" by Captain Alden Partridge.
1826
Offered the first program of courses in civil engineering in the US.
1834
Officially recognized as Norwich University by the state of Vermont.
1856
The first chapter of the Theta Chi fraternity was founded by cadets Frederick Norton Freeman and Arthur Chase.
1866
After a catastrophic fire, the university moved to its current location in Northfield, Vermont.
1898
Designated by the legislature as the Military College of the State of Vermont.
1916
Designated as the first site for a Senior ROTC cavalry unit; the school's first African American student enrolled.
1974
Admitted women into the Corps of Cadets, two years before federal service academies.
2007
The Sullivan Museum and History Center, named after General Gordon R. Sullivan (class of 1959), opened on campus.
🏛️
207 Years
of Excellence

Schools & Colleges

1 notable schools within Norwich University

🎓

College of Graduate & Continuing Studies

Offers a range of graduate and undergraduate degrees, both in-person and online, serving diverse academic pursuits beyond the traditional Corps of Cadets.

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