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Programmer/IT Careers advice (UK)

Tags:
  • Science
  • Computers
Last response: in Work & Education
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April 18, 2013 7:27:29 AM

Hi

I'm a UK graduate with a BSc in computer science (2:2) and an MSc also in computer science (1st). My studies have focused primarily on real-time 3D graphics (mainly C++ and OpenGL, but I'm proficient with Java and various other technologies).

There's a wealth of information on the web and elsewhere about IT & programmer work, but having never had a job, I'm not really in a position to make sense of much of it, and I don't want to lock myself into the wrong career path.

In particular, I hear a lot of scary stories about mandatory overtime and crunch periods, especially within the games industry (which is where my skills are tailored for).

In a typical programmer role (be it a software studio or an IT department in a larger company), how often would I have to work overtime/weekends? How common are crunch periods and how long do they typically last?

Similarly, how might one find out how a given company handles overtime and crunch? It probably isn't an endearing question to ask in an interview.

I'm based in the UK.

Thanks

More about : programmer careers advice

May 6, 2013 1:52:45 AM

I also want to know the answer.
!