Thesis Boot Camp

What is Thesis Boot Camp?

The Australian National University (ANU) runs a Thesis Boot Camp (#ANUTBC) program based on a concept created and developed by Dr Liam Connell and Peta Freestone at The University of Melbourne. 

Research candidates can often encounter difficulties with writing towards the end of their degree. Thesis Boot Camp helps you do a large amount of work on your thesis and develop productive writing habits in a single weekend. The concept of Thesis Boot Camp is disarmingly simple. Put a group of people experiencing similar issues in the same room for a weekend, feed them regularly and provide a reward for each 5,000 words written. An experienced writing teacher is available to help you work through challenges, and regular breaks for physical activity are encouraged. This is a 20,000 word challenge Boot camp funded by the Dean, Higher Degree Research and is free for ANU candidates to attend.

How can I apply?

The #ANUTBC program is extremely popular and spaces are limited. Places are offered on a needs basis, as with everything that the Researcher Development team offers, our camps are an inclusive and safe space for all students to work. These camps are targeted for students writing towards the end of their degree. Your application will go through an application process assessing your thesis progress, goals for the camp and personal circumstances.

#ANUTBC is advertised in the monthly HDR Update, which is mailed to all research students at the start of every month. Thesis boot camp is delivered face to face on Kambri, Acton campus and online options are not available.

2024 dates:

23,24 and 25 Feb 

20,21 and 22 Nov

Please submit your Expression of Interest for Feb here and check out our other online offers here.

Eligibility 

We will select based on the following criteria: how close you are to completion (with those who will not have another chance given preference), then we will consider your reported difficulties and any interruptions to candidature. We will attempt to balance this with ensuring a spread across colleges and gender parity. In order to participate in this opportunity, you are required to complete a thesis map. If you have any questions about this, please email researcherdevelopment@anu.edu.au. 

We also encourage Veterans' to continue making appointments with Academic Skills for one on one support, and attend relevant workshops.