Thesis boot camp is only suitable for late-stage PGRs. It challenges you to write a significant number of words for your thesis/dissertation in a structured environment with peers at the same stage. For many people, writing together in a supportive atmosphere is more effective than writing alone. 

Please see below for feedback from previous participants:

"Thesis boot camp is amazing. There's a real sense of community and camaraderie with everyone working away together. The support around time and food and taking breaks means you can just focus on what you need to do. Everyone I spoke with was really appreciative of the investment in their progress"

- November 2024 attendee

"Thesis Boot Camp provided a brilliant environment for me to get some much-needed words on the page. A quiet, focused environment, motivated by surrounding peers, encouraged by helpful facilitators and rewarded with 2 square meals every day - exactly what I needed"

- May 2024 attendee

You can apply for Thesis Boot Camp using the link to the application form on this page (coming soon). Applications submitted after the deadline or sent via other channels will not be accepted.

You must attend for the full duration of Thesis Boot Camp so that you and the entire group can benefit from the momentum and accountability created by peer-to-peer support.

Thesis Boot Camp is typically our most high demand activity, and we cannot guarantee a place for everyone who would like to attend. We therefore prioritise applications from PGRs who are able to attend for the entire three days.

Please note that exceptions will be made in extenuating circumstances. If this applies to you, please contact Bristol Doctoral College by emailing doctoral-college@bristol.ac.uk 

Due to the high demand for Thesis Boot Camp we prioritise PGRs who have not previously attended.

However, if you have been to Boot Camp before, you can apply to re-attend as a Veteran Helper. This will require you to help with some simple tasks over the boot camp - such as collecting catering orders; keeping the space clean and tidy, and topping up tea and coffee.

If you would like to apply as a Veteran Helper, please fill out the application form and answer 'yes' to question 3.

For the most part, yes.  This is an intensive event that encourages you to focus on generating as many words as possible.

As a reward for your hard work, Bristol Doctoral College provides refreshments and frequent breaks, during which you can get to know your cohort (if you wish)! Boot Camp also includes a number of activity breaks, where attendees have the option to participate in some gentle exercise and off-screen activities.

We recommend wearing comfortable clothing that allows you to move around freely - for both physical activities, and so that you feel at ease in the work space.

• A computer/laptop with internet connection: Thesis Boot Camp is about generating as many words as possible, so you will need a computer/laptop to get the most out of the event. 
• Your preparatory work: If your application for Thesis Boot Camp is successful, you will be expected to complete some preparatory (which will be sent in advance of the event via email). This is an essential part of the boot camp training.
• Key texts only: There may be a couple of books or papers to which you need to refer when writing. If so, you can have those to hand. However, you should not bring substantial amounts of papers or books. The bulk of your reading should be undertaken before, not during, Thesis Boot Camp.
• 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 - and bring any other items that make you feel at ease in the workspace (e.g. a laptop stand, cushion, blanket, etc.). 
• A monitor, keyboard, and/or mouse: Unfortunately, Bristol Doctoral College will not be able to provide you with a monitor, keyboard or mouse. However, if you have these items and would like to use them for your writing station, we are able to store them safely in the PGR Hub office at the end of each day. 
  Please note: a limited number of fidgets and time timers are available in the PGR Hub for participants who find them useful.

Bristol Doctoral College runs a monthly hybrid Writers' Retreat. This is a day-long supported writing workshop consisting of structured writing-blocks interspersed with breaks. Visit our event booking page for more details and to book a space.