Thesis boot camp (TBC) is only suitable for late-stage PGRs as it challenges you to write a significant number of words for your thesis/dissertation in a structured environment with peers at the same stage. Writing together with others in a supportive atmosphere has proven to be an effective strategy for many, rather than the more ‘traditional’ route of writing your thesis alone.

The next Thesis Boot Camp will run in person in 35 Berkeley Square from Monday the 22nd to Wednesday the 23rd May 2023. Applications are open now and close on 2 May. Applications which arrive after the deadline or which are not on our TBC application form will not be accepted.  If you experience any difficulties accessing or filling out the application form on this webpage, please email doctoral-college@bristol.ac.uk for assistance.

You must attend for the full duration of TBC so that you and the entire group can benefit from the momentum and support of each other. We anticipate high demand for TBCs and thus cannot guarantee places for everyone who would like to attend. We therefore like those who do attend to be able to get the most out of their attendance. 

Due to the high demand for TBCs we prioritise PGRs who have not previously attended. If you have attended, and would like to do so again, you may be able to as a TBC Veteran Helper. This will require you to help with some simple tasks over the boot camp. Please complete the application form and answer 'yes' to question 3.

For the most part, yes!  This is an intensive event and you will need to be focused on achieving as much as you can on your writing. However, in reward for your hard work, we provide refreshments and frequent breaks for you to get to know your cohort. There will also be some activity breaks where you will have the option to do some gentle exercise or other off-screen activity.  Please wear comfortable clothing which allows you to move for that reason.

• A computer/laptop with internet connection: Thesis Boot Camp is about getting as many words written as possible so you will need a computer/laptop to get the most out of the event. 
• Your preparatory work: If you are successful in gaining a place on TBC you will be contacted with some preparatory work. This is an essential part of the boot camp training and needs to be completed in advance so that you are ready to have a successful boot camp.
• Key texts only: There may be a couple of books or papers which you feel you may need to refer to in order to write the chapter/section of your thesis which you are working on. If so, you can have those to hand. You should not have substantial amounts of papers or books however, as the bulk of the reading needs to be done before, not during, the TBC.
• Things which make you feel comfortable: You will be sitting down for many hours at a time (although we highly encourage regular stretching and short breaks) so please feel free to dress in your comfiest clothing – whatever you like to wear when relaxed.

We run monthly hybrid Writer’s Retreats which are day-long supported writing workshops as well as other writing training. Visit our Writing and Referencing events on myPGR for more information. Our online Thesis Mapping resources can help you plan a timetable that maximises your chances of delivering on time. You can also follow the guidance on our Focus on Writing page and for tips to run your own Writers Retreat with others.