(2007) Master of Arts in Military History (Brochure)

Master of Artsin Military History

Expect Challenge. Achieve Distinction.

Table of Contents

Director’s Message 1

Program Overview 2

Program Structure 3

Seminar Descriptions 4 - 5

Residency Week 6

Faculty 7

Online Learning 8

Seven Levels of Support 9

Admission Requirements 10

Frequently Asked Questions 11

Join the Norwich Tradition 12

What we offer

Norwich University’s Master of Arts in Military Historyprovides students with a sophisticated understandingof the role of the military and war in history — a vitaltopic in today’s world. The program is designed topresent a broad overview of military history, with in-depth chronological and geographic context. In otherwords, the MMH will offer much more than just a studyof American military history, which is the focus ofsome existing programs.

How you will benefit

Norwich University offers everything necessary for asuccessful online graduate program of study — adynamic, interactive educational environment, amanageable pace for busy adults, program completionin 18 to 27 months, strong 24/7 support, and the chanceto forge powerful and long-lasting relationships withyour fellow students and our wonderful faculty andstaff. Whether you are pursuing a master’s degree forcareer purposes or you just want to better understandthis engaging topic, the rewards are extensive.

Why Norwich is your best choice for studyingmilitary history

Since 1819, Norwich has played an important role inmilitary history: as the birthplace of ROTC, as aninstitution whose graduates have fought in every warsince its founding, and as the leader among militaryschools in racial integration and the integration ofwomen into its corps of cadets. Norwich is aninstitution of great history, substance, and pride.Its alumni include such figures as military historianCarlo D’Este (author of Patton: A Genius for War),Admiral George Dewey (The Hero of Manila), andGeneral Gordon L. Sullivan (former chief of staff of thearmy, and currently chairman of our board of trustees).What better place to study military history?

Over 185 years of academic heritage, decades of servingadult distance learners, and the highest form ofaccreditation a university can receive, provide one ofthe most solid foundations you could ever find for anonline graduate program. We look forward to helpingyou achieve your educational goals and celebratingyour success as you become a member of our esteemedalumni.

Sincerely,

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.

Director’s Message

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Program Overview

Norwich University’s Master of Arts in Military History isdesigned to present a broad picture of military history.You will gain more than just a study of American militaryhistory. You will leave this program with a sophisticatedunderstanding 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. Thecoursework is followed by a one-week residency andgraduation at Norwich University in Northfield, Vermont.

What is military history?

The discipline of history emphasizes objective analysis andcritical thinking, rigorous research skills, an understandingof the particular sources used by historians, and a highstandard of writing ability. Military history is not justbattle history or operational research. It is not a smallsubdivision of history, but instead offers a frameworkthrough which many aspects of historical events andhuman 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 overframeworks for analyzing warfare in history, andcomponents dealing with American military history,non-western and non-traditional ways of war, militarythought and strategy, and topical areas such as race andgender in military history.

What can I do with a master’s degree in militaryhistory?

The American Historical Association lists three basic goalsfor any master’s program:

• Mastery of a body of historical knowledge • The capacity to synthesize and present that knowledge• Basic research competencies

This is a degree of broad relevance that, while often relatedto career progression, offers to a wide variety of potentialstudents the opportunity to attain a graduate degree in afield that is highly relevant to today’s world. A historydegree teaches critical thinking and analysis with rigorousdevelopment of writing skills-qualities that are invaluablein business, teaching, government, and military work.

Online delivery...the perfect fit.

Our online virtual classrooms have better participationand academic discourse than many traditionalclassrooms. Students are engaged with their instructorsand classmates in a constant dynamic interplay ofdiscussion, chat and interaction. At Norwich, studentsmaintain close contact with faculty through onlinediscussion boards and interactive exercises. The programis designed to fit your schedule. Your employer might evencover part of the tuition.

Virtual classrooms, real education, utmostconvenience.

The MMH program is designed for individuals who workon a full-time basis but still want the serious training of agraduate degree in history from a respected institution.You’ll still put in the hours of study-fifteen to twenty hoursa week-but you choose the time and place. Enter theclassroom whenever you wish, whether you’re an earlyriser or a night owl. Study when and where you have thetime, at home, at work, or on the road.

Knowledge and insight. On demand.

The Norwich University online library has one of the mostcomprehensive databases available in education today. Thisguarantees accessibility to research information.

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Program Structure

A fresh and innovative approach to master�s education

Our structured program with a required sequence ofcourses allows students to establish a good foundationand build on their knowledge in each new seminar. Liketraditional residence programs, the MMH requires 36credits of coursework. Unlike most other programs, oursis divided into six seminars worth six credits each. Thereare two seminars per semester. Seminars one and two aretaken in Semester 1, Seminars three and four in Semester2, etc. Seminars are appropriately named Seminars 1 - 6and each lasts about eleven weeks. Every student followsthe same path through the program, taking Seminar 1through 6 in progression, then on to a one-weekResidency. There are four start dates: March, June,September and December.

A pace designed specifically for busy professionals

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

You travel through the program with one small group of students

In other graduate programs students choose from asmorgasbord of courses with different fellow students inevery class. Norwich’s use of small, structured, building-block seminars mean that you will begin your studies aspart of a group of approximately a dozen students,known as a cohort. Most students remain with thiscohort from one seminar to the next. You will have achance to develop close friendships and professionalrelationships with the other students in your cohort asyou travel though the entire program together. Thecommunity created in this system is tangible and oftenlong-lasting. You will get to meet the others in yourcohort face to face during the residency.

Capstone residency experience

The coursework is followed by a one-week residency andgraduation at Norwich. Our residency is one thing that sets usapart from other online programs. It offers the chance forcapstone academic experiences including debates andresearch presentations. Students participate in a traditionalgraduation ceremony, complete with master’s hooding. It is achance for our graduate students to truly feel a part of thiswonderful institution. And there is no nicer place to be inthe summer than the Green Mountains of Vermont. NorwichUniversity’s School of Graduate Studies provides travelassistance to each graduating student participating in theresidency. Travel assistance checks will be delivered to studentsupon completion of all residency out-processing activities.

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Seminar Descriptions

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Semester TwoSeminar 3 - MH530Military Thought and Theory

This course will study the most influential militarytheoreticians and strategists from the period of the ThirtyYears War to the present day. Students will examine thetheories of Clausewitz, Jomini, Douhet, Mahan, Corbett,and Mao Tse-Tung This seminar will also examine theoriesof deterrence and nuclear war as well as post-Maoistrevolutionary warfare. (6 credit hours)

Seminar 4 - MH540Non-Western Military History

This seminar will present an introduction to Non-Westernmilitary history, covering a wide range of topics includingmilitary thought, strategy and tactics, technologies, andcultural factors as they pertain to the waging of war. Thisseminar will introduce students to the latest scholarship andinterpretations, which both challenge and complementaspects of the debates concerning Western superiority. Thisseminar will devote more attention to East Asia than to otherparts of the non-Western world. Specific historical cases innon-western military history will be examined to determinethe military effectiveness of non-western cultures and theefficacy of the “Western Way of War” thesis. (6 credit hours)

The six-credit seminars will be as follows:

Semester OneSeminar 1 - MH510Introduction to Military History

The first seminar will examine how military historydeveloped as a distinct discipline, and will train students inthe “tools of the trade”: historiography and methodology.Historiography, or the art of practicing history as a distinctdiscipline, is an examination of the history of historicalthought, from the first works of history in the classical worldto the present time. The course will cover some of the variedhistoriographical schools and concepts that have evolved.Historical methodology-changes in the methods of “doing”history-will also be studied. How do historians gatherinformation and formulate hypotheses? The development ofresearch methods, including the use of primary andsecondary sources, will be discussed. History involvesinterpretation; the role of objectivity, selectivity, and bias willbe examined. All readings and case studies will be drawnfrom the field of military history. (6 credit hours)

Seminar 2 - MH520The Western Way of War

This course explores the military history of the UnitedStates and Europe from classical Greece to the 20th century.The emphasis will be on the “Western Way of War” asdefined by historians Geoffrey Parker and Victor DavisHanson. In virtually every conflict between western statesand non-western powers, from the Persian Wars throughthe colonial era, the west has emerged victorious.Are thereexperiences and characteristics that have distinguishedwarfare in the West from the rest of the world? Otherprominent military historians, including John Lynn, havechallenged the notion that a distinct, continuous WesternWay of War exists. The seminar will consist of an in-depthexamination of these conflicting interpretations of militaryhistory. (6 credit hours)

Seminar Descriptions

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Semester ThreeSeminar 5 - MH550U.S. Military History

Students will examine America’s unique experience ofwarfare and the development of military institutions andmilitary policy in the United States. This seminar willexamine the military history of the United States from thecolonial era to the present day with special emphasis onthe Revolutionary War, Civil War, Frontier Wars,America’s rise to Great Power status, the First and SecondWorld Wars, and the conflicts of the Cold War era.Throughout this seminar students will examine theefficacy of the “American Way of War” thesis as well asAmerican civil-military relations. (6 credit hours)

Seminar 6 - MH650Race and Gender in Military History

This half seminar will cover the complex issuessurrounding racial integration in military institutions,including intriguing questions around citizenship andethnicity. Students will also examine the history ofwomen’s participation in warfare and issues of genderintegration in the military. (3 credit hours)

Capstone Paper :

Instead of a Master’s “thesis”, Norwich requires a“Capstone Paper” that must be written and submittedduring the latter part of Seminar 6. The Capstone has allthe elements of the traditional thesis, including thefollowing:

• a program-approved topic of the student’s ownchoosing to be explored in depth

• the use of appropriate academic sources • an expected length of 45-50 pages• defense of the Capstone during the student’s

Residency

Textbooks, articles, and library research

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

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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 mostimportant features of their online education. This weeklongevent — which culminates in graduation — provides atime to relax with professors and colleagues, network withprofessional acquaintances and strengthen lifelongfriendships.

Graduation � The Master�s Hood

At the end of the week, a full graduation ceremony will beheld, complete with master’s hooding and a special dinnercelebration.

Family Involvement

For many students, family support will have been a vitalpart of their educational experience. The graduation ceremony at Norwich is, therefore, a very special andemotional event, which students often share with familymembers. Students often bring their families to Vermont tovacation during the residency, and to participate in thegraduation celebrations and ceremonies.

Residency

Faculty

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Our faculty are leaders in both academicexcellence and professional achievement

Norwich University’s faculty are true leaders in militaryhistory. We look for instructors with solid credentials: menand women with a PhD in history whose commitment to thefield is proven by their teaching, their participation inimportant conferences and through their publications inmilitary history. Then we train these scholars to be effectiveonline instructors.

Online Learning Gives You Access Anywhere, Anytime

Online

Designed to accommodate your demanding workand personal life

The program’s virtual classroom is the center of thelearning experience. It is here that you will access courseinformation, communicate with your instructor and fellowstudents, post assignments and view grades, all from theconvenience of your home or office. This highly interactiveeducational web site uses the highest quality multi-media tomake your learning experience as engaging as it iseffective.

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 willbuild your cohort into a learning community ready to engage indiscussions of current events and hypothetical scenarios.Yourinstructor is a seasoned professional who understands boththe workplace and the academic environment and willsuccessfully guide you through the program.

Work

Apply the knowledge you gain from the program to your future

The program blends professional experience with scholarlyachievement, to give you the knowledge and skills that setyou apart from others in your field. You will have manyopportunities for practical application of your newfoundknowledge and experience.

Home

Learning the fits your busy lifestyle

All printed materials and textbooks for the program areconveniently delivered to you prior to the beginning of eachseminar. You have access to the classroom anywhere,anytime.Your instructor will lay out the course in a detailedschedule so you know what to expect and how to prepare,making life just a bit simpler.

Support

Live technical support anytime — day or night

We have built this degree around your lifestyle andlearning needs. Since many of our students work and learnoff-hours, our technical support desk is always ready toprovide computer and software help. Our support team isavailable to make your learning experience as easy aspossible.Regardless of your technical skill,you are guaranteedassistance whenever you need it.

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Seven Levels of Support

Your support team provides you witha rich and rewarding learning experience

Faculty

Program Director

Associate Program Director

Administrative Director

Assistant Director

Technical Support

Admissions Advisor

Ongoing Support to Ensure Your Success

Helping you succeed in the classroom is the goal of every member of the University’s 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 manageissues 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 thatcandidates for admission to the Master of Arts in Military History program meetthe following criteria and submit the following information. The completeapplication package is to be submitted to the Norwich University office forprocessing. All completed application forms must be accompanied by a non-refundable $50 application fee.

Qualifications for Admission

• A Bachelor’s degree from a regionally accredited institution OR an equivalentdegree from a foreign institution, as evaluated by WES or AACROA

• An undergraduate GPA of 2.75 or higher (overall or in a relevantundergraduate major, such as history or political science), OR a GREverbal score in the top 25 percent (the GRE requirements may be waived forstudents 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 NorwichUniversity?

Most of our students find that our online programs are more rigorous than any traditional class they havetaken. You can be assured that the return on your hardwork will be immediate as you apply your learning to thereal world.

2. Will my diploma say “Online” degree?

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

3. How is the Norwich University accredited?

Norwich University is accredited by the New EnglandAssociation of Schools and Colleges, Inc., through itsCommission on Institutions of Higher Education.

Inquiries regarding the accreditation status by the NewEngland Association should be directed to the administrativestaff of the institution. Individuals may also contact:

Commission on Institutions of Higher EducationNew England Association of Schools and Colleges209 Burlington RoadBedford, MA 01730-1433(781) 271-0022E-Mail: [email protected]

4. How long is the program?

The coursework is completed in 18 months. There arethree six-month semesters and a one-week on-campusresidency in June. Depending on the start date you choose,you will have your degree in 18 to 27 months. YourAdmissions Advisor will assist you with the enrollmentcalendar, highlighting the unique benefits of each start date.

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

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

6. How much does the program cost?

Program costs are calculated by credit hour. For the mostup-to-date information, please contact your AdmissionsAdvisor.

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 studentenrolled in an online graduate program at NorwichUniversity?

This program is designed for the working professional whomust balance the demands of work, home, and study. Moststudents require about 20 hours of study per week andthey creatively carve out that time by studying after thekids are in bed, before the family gets up, in those few sparemoments at the office, or during downtime in an airport.Your instructor and your Assistant Director will help keepyou on track. Students also find their cohort is atremendous source of support in managing their time andstudies.

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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Established in 1819, Norwich University is a small, quality university with a balance of strongprofessional and liberal arts programs at the undergraduate and graduate levels. Our 1600undergraduate 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 islocated in Northfield, Vermont in the heart of the Green Mountains, truly one of the most beautifullocations 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 Corpsof Cadets makes Norwich unique. Norwich is a very proud place and maintains deep bonds with itsalumni. 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 amember of its long-established and successful alumni. When you become part of NorwichUniversity, you become part of something very old, very deep, and very proud.

Why You Should Choose Norwich University for your Master’s 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• Norwich’s Corps of Cadets was a leader in racial integration and the integration of women• Norwich’s founder, Alden Partridge, brought experiential learning to U.S. education.

His educational beliefs became the basis for the Morrill Land Grant Act, which transformedAmerican education into the world leader

Join The Norwich Tradition

Norwich UniversitySchool of Graduate Studies

PO Box 367 Northfield, VT 05663-0367Phone: 1.800.460.5597 ext. 3372 (US and Canada), or1.647.722.6642 ext. 3372 (International)Fax: 1.888.560.4934Website: www.mmh.norwich.edu