Norwich University

Norwich University is a private university in Northfield, Vermont, United States. The university was founded in 1819 as the "American Literary, Scientific and Military Academy". It is the oldest of six senior military colleges and is recognized by the United States Department of Defense as the "Birthplace of ROTC".

Academics at Norwich University are organized through several academic colleges, including the College of Arts and Sciences, the College of National Services, the College of Professional Schools, and the College of Graduate and Continuing Studies. Students may enroll either as members of the Corps of Cadets or as civilian students, but both groups pursue the same academic programs and degrees. The College of Graduate and Continuing Studies primarily serves adult and online learners, offering flexible undergraduate and graduate programs. Norwich’s Reserve Officers' Training Corps programs—Army, Navy/Marine Corps, and Air Force/Space Force—provide pathways to commissioning, while students interested in the United States Coast Guard may participate in the Coast Guard Auxiliary University Program.

All entering freshmen aspiring to the Corps of Cadets are called "Rooks", and their first year at Norwich is called "Rookdom". The institution of "Rookdom" consists of two three-month processes that mold civilians into Norwich Cadets: Rook Basic Training and Basic Leadership Training. The culmination of Rook Basic Training marks the halfway point toward Recognition and occurs before Thanksgiving break, after which Rooks are awarded privileges. Recognition for acceptance into the Corps of Cadets typically occurs around the eighteenth week.