MGA Virtual Thesis Bootcamp 2025

Focused writing. Real progress.

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The MGA's Virtual Thesis Bootcamp is a free four-day intensive writing workshop for HDR candidates (PhD and Masters by Research) who want to take their thesis to a whole new level.

This year, our Virtual Thesis Bootcamp will run from Monday, 24 November to Thursday, 27 November.

 

WHAT TO EXPECT:

During the Bootcamp, students can expect to write for 3.5-4 hours each day. The program will run virtually, however, should you require a space on campus, we will endeavour to accommodate you. Spaces will be offered at either Caulfield or Clayton campus.

This program will include:

1. Regular stretching, yoga and mindfulness sessions to keep you focused and motivated.
2. 1:1 consults with a Student Academic Success Advisor to help you work through any writing challenges.
3. Daily prizes for those who write the most words at the end of each day.
4. Dedicated time for you to get to know the other participants.
5. An opportunity to hear from former PhD students who will provide you with some tips on what to do after the bootcamp and how to make a plan for thesis submission.
6. A $40 Uber or Coles food voucher to buy snacks or lunch to keep you going throughout the program.

 

Here is an example schedule for each day of the thesis bootcamp:

9:05am - Morning yoga, gentle stretching and mindfulness
9:20am - Welcome, introductions and stragtegies on how to make the most of your day
9:45am - Writing session 1 (2 hours of writing)
11:45am - Lunch and ice breaker
12:30pm - Writing session 2 (2 hours of writing) / 1:1 session with a Student Academic Success advisor
2:30pm - Feedback and set goals for the next day
3:00pm - Session ends

 

Read more about last year's Virtual Thesis Bootcamp here.

 

ELIGIBILITY CRITERIA:

Applications are open to all Monash University HDR candidate who:

1. Have successfully completed one or more of their candidate milestones (at the minimum Confirmation of Candidature);
2. Can identify clear goals for your participation in the Thesis Bootcamp. For example, you must be able to identify the particular chapter(s) of your thesis that you will work on as part of your writing retreat goal;
3. Are able to clearly identify how you could benefit from an intensive week of writing a particular section of your thesis;
4. Are able to commit and fully participate in the Bootcamp for all four days.

A maximum of 40 students will be selected for this Thesis Bootcamp. Participants are required to meet the eligibility criteria and commit to attending all four days. Please note that we prioritise applications from first-time and late-stage or writing-up stage candidates.

 

Applications open: Wednesday, 15 October 2025 9:00AM AEST

Applications close: Monday, 3 November 2025 9:00AM AEST

Successful applicants to be notified via email by Monday, 10 November.

 

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