Master of Arts in Military History

Expect Challenge. Achieve Distinction.

Table of Contents

Directors Message Program Overview Program Structure Seminar Descriptions Residency Week Faculty Online Learning Seven Levels of Support Admission Requirements Frequently Asked Questions Join the Norwich Tradition

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What we offer
Norwich Universitys Master of Arts in Military History provides students with a sophisticated understanding of the role of the military and war in history a vital topic in todays world. The program is designed to present a broad overview of military history, with indepth chronological and geographic context. In other words, the MMH will offer much more than just a study of American military history, which is the focus of some existing programs.

Directors Message
Over 185 years of academic heritage, decades of serving adult distance learners, and the highest form of accreditation a university can receive, provide one of the most solid foundations you could ever find for an online graduate program. We look forward to helping you achieve your educational goals and celebrating your success as you become a member of our esteemed alumni. Sincerely,

How you will benefit

Norwich University offers everything necessary for a successful online graduate program of study a dynamic, interactive educational environment, a manageable pace for busy adults, program completion in 18 to 27 months, strong 24/7 support, and the chance to forge powerful and long-lasting relationships with your fellow students and our wonderful faculty and staff. Whether you are pursuing a masters degree for career purposes or you just want to better understand this engaging topic, the rewards are extensive.

James Ehrman, Ph.D.

Associate Program Director, Master of Arts in Military History Norwich University
James Ehrman, Ph.D., received his B.A. from Creighton University in Omaha, Nebraska, and pursued his graduate education in the fields of U.S. history, military history and the history of science and technology at Kansas State University in Manhattan, Kansas. The History Department at Kansas State University, and its Institute for Military History and 20th Century Studies, offers one of the leading graduate programs in military history and has a joint graduate program with the U.S. Army Command and General Staff College at Fort Leavenworth, Kansas. Professor Ehrman is a former list and web editor of H-War, a military history discussion list hosted by Michigan State University. Professor Ehrman currently serves as an Associate Editor of the World War Two Studies Association Newsletter, a biannual research guide for scholars of the Second World War and has contributed to the recently released Encyclopedia of War and American Society. Since 2004 Professor Ehrman has taught courses in military history, the Second World War, and U.S. history as part of the Studies in War and Peace program at Norwich University.

Why Norwich is your best choice for studying military history

Since 1819, Norwich has played an important role in military history: as the birthplace of ROTC, as an institution whose graduates have fought in every war since its founding, and as the leader among military schools in racial integration and the integration of women into its corps of cadets. Norwich is an institution of great history, substance, and pride. Its alumni include such figures as military historian Carlo DEste (author of Patton: A Genius for War), Admiral George Dewey (The Hero of Manila), and General Gordon L. Sullivan (former chief of staff of the army, and currently chairman of our board of trustees). What better place to study military history?
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Program Overview

Norwich Universitys Master of Arts in Military History is designed to present a broad picture of military history. You will gain more than just a study of American military history.You will leave this program with a sophisticated understanding of the role of the military and war in history. The curriculum consists of 36 credits of online coursework, divided into six seminars worth six credits each. The coursework is followed by a one-week residency and graduation at Norwich University in Northfield, Vermont.

This is a degree of broad relevance that, while often related to career progression, offers to a wide variety of potential students the opportunity to attain a graduate degree in a field that is highly relevant to todays world. A history degree teaches critical thinking and analysis with rigorous development of writing skills-qualities that are invaluable in business, teaching, government, and military work.

What is military history?

The discipline of history emphasizes objective analysis and critical thinking, rigorous research skills, an understanding of the particular sources used by historians, and a high standard of writing ability. Military history is not just battle history or operational research. It is not a small subdivision of history, but instead offers a framework through which many aspects of historical events and human behavior can be understood, including economics, politics, social issues, international relations, leadership, and group dynamics. The curriculum includes methodology and historiography, an examination of theoretical concepts and debates over frameworks for analyzing warfare in history, and components dealing with American military history, non-western and non-traditional ways of war, military thought and strategy, and topical areas such as race and gender in military history.

Online delivery...the perfect fit.

Our online virtual classrooms have better participation and academic discourse than many traditional classrooms. Students are engaged with their instructors and classmates in a constant dynamic interplay of discussion, chat and interaction. At Norwich, students maintain close contact with faculty through online discussion boards and interactive exercises. The program is designed to fit your schedule. Your employer might even cover part of the tuition.

Virtual classrooms, real education, utmost convenience.

The MMH program is designed for individuals who work on a full-time basis but still want the serious training of a graduate degree in history from a respected institution. Youll still put in the hours of study-fifteen to twenty hours a week-but you choose the time and place. Enter the classroom whenever you wish, whether youre an early riser or a night owl. Study when and where you have the time, at home, at work, or on the road.

What can I do with a masters degree in military history?

The American Historical Association lists three basic goals for any masters program: Mastery of a body of historical knowledge The capacity to synthesize and present that knowledge Basic research competencies

Knowledge and insight. On demand.

The Norwich University online library has one of the most comprehensive databases available in education today. This guarantees accessibility to research information.

Program Structure
A fresh and innovative approach to masters education
Our structured program with a required sequence of courses allows students to establish a good foundation and build on their knowledge in each new seminar. Like traditional residence programs, the MMH requires 36 credits of coursework. Unlike most other programs, ours is divided into six seminars worth six credits each. There are two seminars per semester. Seminars one and two are taken in Semester 1, Seminars three and four in Semester 2, etc. Seminars are appropriately named Seminars 1 - 6 and each lasts about eleven weeks. Every student follows the same path through the program, taking Seminar 1 through 6 in progression, then on to a one-week Residency. There are four start dates: March, June, September and December.

You travel through the program with one small group of students
In other graduate programs students choose from a smorgasbord of courses with different fellow students in every class. Norwichs use of small, structured, buildingblock seminars mean that you will begin your studies as part of a group of approximately a dozen students, known as a cohort. Most students remain with this cohort from one seminar to the next. You will have a chance to develop close friendships and professional relationships with the other students in your cohort as you travel though the entire program together. The community created in this system is tangible and often long-lasting. You will get to meet the others in your cohort face to face during the residency.

Capstone residency experience

The coursework is followed by a one-week residency and graduation at Norwich. Our residency is one thing that sets us apart from other online programs. It offers the chance for capstone academic experiences including debates and research presentations. Students participate in a traditional graduation ceremony, complete with masters hooding. It is a chance for our graduate students to truly feel a part of this wonderful institution. And there is no nicer place to be in the summer than the Green Mountains of Vermont. Norwich Universitys School of Graduate Studies provides travel assistance to each graduating student participating in the residency. Travel assistance checks will be delivered to students upon completion of all residency out-processing activities.
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A pace designed specifically for busy professionals

Coursework takes approximately twenty hours per week a demanding but manageable pace. Our extensive experience has proven that you can handle this load. Norwich has online graduate students from nearly every walk of life: active military personnel, government employees, busy executives, and retired professionals. If they can do it, so can you.

Seminar Descriptions
The six-credit seminars will be as follows:

Semester Two Seminar 3 - MH530

Semester One Seminar 1 - MH510

Military Thought and Theory

This course will study the most influential military theoreticians and strategists from the period of the Thirty Years War to the present day. Students will examine the theories of Clausewitz, Jomini, Douhet, Mahan, Corbett, and Mao Tse-Tung This seminar will also examine theories of deterrence and nuclear war as well as post-Maoist revolutionary warfare. (6 credit hours) Seminar 4 - MH540

Introduction to Military History

The first seminar will examine how military history developed as a distinct discipline, and will train students in the tools of the trade: historiography and methodology. Historiography, or the art of practicing history as a distinct discipline, is an examination of the history of historical thought, from the first works of history in the classical world to the present time. The course will cover some of the varied historiographical schools and concepts that have evolved. Historical methodology-changes in the methods of doing history-will also be studied. How do historians gather information and formulate hypotheses? The development of research methods, including the use of primary and secondary sources, will be discussed. History involves interpretation; the role of objectivity, selectivity, and bias will be examined.All readings and case studies will be drawn from the field of military history. (6 credit hours) Seminar 2 - MH520

Non-Western Military History

This seminar will present an introduction to Non-Western military history, covering a wide range of topics including military thought, strategy and tactics, technologies, and cultural factors as they pertain to the waging of war. This seminar will introduce students to the latest scholarship and interpretations, which both challenge and complement aspects of the debates concerning Western superiority. This seminar will devote more attention to East Asia than to other parts of the non-Western world. Specific historical cases in non-western military history will be examined to determine the military effectiveness of non-western cultures and the efficacy of the Western Way of Warthesis. (6 credit hours)

The Western Way of War

This course explores the military history of the United States and Europe from classical Greece to the 20th century. The emphasis will be on the Western Way of War as defined by historians Geoffrey Parker and Victor Davis Hanson. In virtually every conflict between western states and non-western powers, from the Persian Wars through the colonial era, the west has emerged victorious.Are there experiences and characteristics that have distinguished warfare in the West from the rest of the world? Other prominent military historians, including John Lynn, have challenged the notion that a distinct, continuous Western Way of War exists. The seminar will consist of an in-depth examination of these conflicting interpretations of military history. (6 credit hours)

Seminar Descriptions
Semester Three Seminar 5 - MH550

Textbooks, articles, and library research

Most of your readings (books and coursepacks) will be automatically sent to you before the start of each seminar. Other readings will be available in the Norwich librarys extensive online databases.You will also conduct additional library research, usually accomplished online. If you have a good physical library nearby, you could supplement your research there, but seminars are designed to accommodate students even in remote locations.

U.S. Military History

Students will examine Americas unique experience of warfare and the development of military institutions and military policy in the United States. This seminar will examine the military history of the United States from the colonial era to the present day with special emphasis on the Revolutionary War, Civil War, Frontier Wars, Americas rise to Great Power status, the First and Second World Wars, and the conflicts of the Cold War era. Throughout this seminar students will examine the efficacy of the American Way of War thesis as well as American civil-military relations. (6 credit hours) Seminar 6 - MH650

Race and Gender in Military History

This half seminar will cover the complex issues surrounding racial integration in military institutions, including intriguing questions around citizenship and ethnicity. Students will also examine the history of womens participation in warfare and issues of gender integration in the military. (3 credit hours)

Capstone Paper :
Instead of a Masters thesis, Norwich requires a Capstone Paper that must be written and submitted during the latter part of Seminar 6. The Capstone has all the elements of the traditional thesis, including the following: a program-approved topic of the students own choosing to be explored in depth the use of appropriate academic sources an expected length of 45-50 pages defense of the Capstone during the students Residency

Residency

You will cap your studies with a one-week residency at Norwich University in the hills of Vermont during the month of June. The Residency will allow you to meet your fellow classmates and instructors face-to-face and become involved in exciting activities such as debates, a professional conference, lectures, networking and graduation.

Cementing lifelong friendships and networks

Graduates tell us that the residency is the one of the most important features of their online education. This weeklong event which culminates in graduation provides a time to relax with professors and colleagues, network with professional acquaintances and strengthen lifelong friendships.

Graduation The Masters Hood

At the end of the week, a full graduation ceremony will be held, complete with masters hooding and a special dinner celebration.

Family Involvement
For many students, family support will have been a vital part of their educational experience. The graduation ceremony at Norwich is, therefore, a very special and emotional event, which students often share with family members. Students often bring their families to Vermont to vacation during the residency, and to participate in the graduation celebrations and ceremonies.

Faculty

Our faculty are leaders in both academic excellence and professional achievement

Norwich Universitys faculty are true leaders in military history. We look for instructors with solid credentials: men and women with a PhD in history whose commitment to the field is proven by their teaching, their participation in important conferences and through their publications in military history. Then we train these scholars to be effective online instructors.

Online Learning Gives You Access Anywhere, Anytime

Online
Designed to accommodate your demanding work and personal life
The programs virtual classroom is the center of the learning experience. It is here that you will access course information, communicate with your instructor and fellow students, post assignments and view grades, all from the convenience of your home or office. This highly interactive educational web site uses the highest quality multi-media to make your learning experience as engaging as it is effective.

Home
Learning the fits your busy lifestyle
All printed materials and textbooks for the program are conveniently delivered to you prior to the beginning of each seminar.You have access to the classroom anywhere, anytime.Your instructor will lay out the course in a detailed schedule so you know what to expect and how to prepare, making life just a bit simpler.

Support
Live technical support anytime day or night

Small Groups
Your learning experience is enhanced by our cohort model
You will be a part of a small group of about 12 other students a group we call a cohort.Your instructor will build your cohort into a learning community ready to engage in discussions of current events and hypothetical scenarios.Your instructor is a seasoned professional who understands both the workplace and the academic environment and will successfully guide you through the program. We have built this degree around your lifestyle and learning needs. Since many of our students work and learn off-hours, our technical support desk is always ready to provide computer and software help. Our support team is available to make your learning experience as easy as possible.Regardless of your technical skill,you are guaranteed assistance whenever you need it.

Work
Apply the knowledge you gain from the program to your future
The program blends professional experience with scholarly achievement, to give you the knowledge and skills that set you apart from others in your field.You will have many opportunities for practical application of your newfound knowledge and experience.

Ongoing Support to Ensure Your Success

Your support team provides you with a rich and rewarding learning experience

Seven Levels of Support

Faculty Program Director Associate Program Director Administrative Director Assistant Director Technical Support Admissions Advisor

Helping you succeed in the classroom is the goal of every member of the Universitys distance learning team. We are here to help you every step of the way by providing a team dedicated to you: Faculty to engage and coach you through your studies Program Director to ensure the quality and relevance of your curriculum Associate Program Director to find and train the highest quality faculty to work with you Administrative Director to help you navigate University policies and to manage issues that affect all the students in your class Assistant Director to support you through all six seminars and residency Technical Support Team available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, 365 days a year, to make your learning experience as easy as possible Admissions Advisor to walk you through the application process
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Admission Requirements
Norwich University is committed to your success, and therefore requires that candidates for admission to the Master of Arts in Military History program meet the following criteria and submit the following information. The complete application package is to be submitted to the Norwich University office for processing. All completed application forms must be accompanied by a nonrefundable $50 application fee.

Qualifications for Admission

A Bachelors degree from a regionally accredited institution OR an equivalent degree from a foreign institution, as evaluated by WES or AACROA An undergraduate GPA of 2.75 or higher (overall or in a relevant undergraduate major, such as history or political science), OR a GRE verbal score in the top 25 percent (the GRE requirements may be waived for students with extensive life experience) TOEFL. Students whose native language is other than English must submit an official TOEFL score of 600 and above (paper test) OR 253 and above (computer based test)

Application Package
Three letters of recommendation Letter of intent Admission Essay Resume All official transcripts of prior undergraduate or graduate work

Our Admissions Advisors are here to help you complete the admissions process
Call 1.800.460.5597 ext. 3372 (US and Canada) or 1.647.722.6642 ext. 3372 (International) and talk to an Admissions Advisor who can help you: Explore all your opportunities for financial aid Walk step-by-step through the application process Determine which start date fits your plans Clarify any concerns or questions

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Frequently Asked Questions

1. How challenging is an online degree at Norwich University?
Most of our students find that our online programs are more rigorous than any traditional class they have taken.You can be assured that the return on your hard work will be immediate as you apply your learning to the real world.

5. How many credits and courses do I take each semester?

You will enroll in two six-credit seminars each semester for a total of 12 credits. Each seminar lasts approximately 11 weeks.

2. Will my diploma say Online degree?

No.You will receive the official, traditional diploma of Norwich University.

6. How much does the program cost?

Program costs are calculated by credit hour. For the most up-to-date information, please contact your Admissions Advisor.

3. How is the Norwich University accredited?

Norwich University is accredited by the New England Association of Schools and Colleges, Inc., through its Commission on Institutions of Higher Education. Inquiries regarding the accreditation status by the New England Association should be directed to the administrative staff of the institution. Individuals may also contact: Commission on Institutions of Higher Education New England Association of Schools and Colleges 209 Burlington Road Bedford, MA 01730-1433 (781) 271-0022 E-Mail: cihe@neasc.org

7. When do I start the program?

You may enter the program four times per year in either March, June, September, or December.

8. What does an average week look like for a student enrolled in an online graduate program at Norwich University?
This program is designed for the working professional who must balance the demands of work, home, and study. Most students require about 20 hours of study per week and they creatively carve out that time by studying after the kids are in bed, before the family gets up, in those few spare moments at the office, or during downtime in an airport. Your instructor and your Assistant Director will help keep you on track. Students also find their cohort is a tremendous source of support in managing their time and studies.

4. How long is the program?

The coursework is completed in 18 months. There are three six-month semesters and a one-week on-campus residency in June. Depending on the start date you choose, you will have your degree in 18 to 27 months.Your Admissions Advisor will assist you with the enrollment calendar, highlighting the unique benefits of each start date.

9. Who do I talk to if I have more questions, or I want to apply?

You may call an Admissions Advisor at 1.800.460.5597 ext. 3372 (US and Canada) or 1.647.722.6642 ext. 3372 (International),who will be able to answer all your questions.
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Join The Norwich Tradition

Established in 1819, Norwich University is a small, quality university with a balance of strong professional and liberal arts programs at the undergraduate and graduate levels. Our 1600 undergraduate students choose either a military lifestyle as part of the Corps of Cadets or a traditional college lifestyle. Norwich is known for its dedicated teaching faculty. The campus is located in Northfield, Vermont in the heart of the Green Mountains, truly one of the most beautiful locations in the world for a college campus. The combination of quality professional education, broad studies in the liberal arts, enthusiastic faculty, and the leadership tradition within the Corps of Cadets makes Norwich unique. Norwich is a very proud place and maintains deep bonds with its alumni. The New England Association of Schools and Colleges accredits Norwich University. This is an institution of great history, substance, and pride, and you will be honored to become a member of its long-established and successful alumni. When you become part of Norwich University, you become part of something very old, very deep, and very proud.

Why You Should Choose Norwich University for your Masters Degree
Norwich University has always been a leader in the field of education:
Norwich was the first private college in the nation to offer engineering instruction Norwich was the first private military academy in the nation Norwich was the birthplace of ROTC Norwichs Corps of Cadets was a leader in racial integration and the integration of women Norwichs founder, Alden Partridge, brought experiential learning to U.S. education. His educational beliefs became the basis for the Morrill Land Grant Act, which transformed American education into the world leader

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Norwich University School of Graduate Studies

PO Box 367 Northfield, VT 05663-0367 Phone: 1.800.460.5597 ext. 3372 (US and Canada), or 1.647.722.6642 ext. 3372 (International) Fax: 1.888.560.4934 Website: www.mmh.norwich.edu