Thesis Boot Camp
Applications for Thesis Boot Camp are now open.
Thesis Boot Camp is an intensive writing environment for late-stage PGRs to make significant progress on the first draft of their thesis. It does not provide specific advice on editing, restructuring, or polishing a thesis. The focus is on overcoming writer’s block to produce a large number of words with the mutual support of a co-working peer cohort.
In addition to ample writing time, the programme will include breaks for physical exercise and to socialise with other PGRs at the same stage of study.
The next Thesis Boot Camp will be in the PGR Hub (2nd floor, Senate House) over three days on the 24 - 26 November:
- Friday 24 November 3:00 pm - 8:00 pm
- Saturday 25 November 9:30 am - 7:45 pm
- Sunday 26 November 9:30 am – 7:45 pm
Participants are required to attend all 3 days to support each other as a cohort and complete preparatory tasks in advance to maximise results. There will also be the option to attend a 30 minute 1:1 consultation with a writing tutor before or after the boot camp.
For further information refer to our FAQs below.
Apply now for Thesis Boot Camp
If you experience any difficulties accessing or filling out the application form on this webpage, please email doctoral-college@bristol.ac.uk for assistance.
Frequently Asked Questions
A list of common queries about how the Thesis Boot Camp works and how to apply.
Whats the purpose of a Thesis Boot Camp? Will attending benefit me?
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.
How do I apply?
Apply using the link to the application form on this page. Applications which arrive after the deadline or which are not on our TBC application form will not be accepted.
I can’t make the whole of Thesis Boot Camp due to other commitments, can I still attend?
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.
I have previously attended a Thesis Boot Camp, can I attend again?
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.
Will I be in front of the screen for the whole time?
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.
What do I need to have with me for TBC?
- 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.
What happens if I'm not successful or can't make these dates? Is there other support available?
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 development page for more details of support available.
This boot camp is SUPER useful. Before I applied, I did not think I had the confidence or commitment to write 10,000 words in three days. However, this boot camp helped me push through with my writing and maintain momentum in a super encouraging environment. I cannot say thank you enough to the BDC.
Many thanks for organising such a great event. I was worried that I wouldn't be comfortable writing in such circumstances but I managed to write more than 10,000 words! I also really enjoyed having chats with other PhD students struggling with their thesis at a similar stage of the study, the exercise breaks and the food! I am more confident about my writing now.
Contact us
If you have any further questions about TBC, please contact Maxine or Sarah at doctoral-college@bristol.ac.uk.