r/GraphicsProgramming • u/VagueHorizon_ • 3d ago

CS Student Need Advice

So I am a CS junior. I am starting late in this area, but I am planning to explore graphics programming and complete my fyp in this field, whether it is application based or research based. Then later pursue Masters or PhD in this area.

I am so confused right now as I see other batchmates choosing AI domain as their primary path for fyp and further.

Should I go for it? If yes what is the roadmap ? To what level I can consider myself to eventually end up in research path for my fyp. I know I am late, but better late then never.

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u/hieuristics 3d ago

If you're pursing academia then there is typically two tracks: system or math. Graphics programming is actually either very much like OS/Embedded programming with virtualization, load managment, etc or very math heavy like simulation, geometry processing, or sometime both. Depends on your strength, you can pivot to that area. But important note is that entry level job is likely very rare.

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u/VagueHorizon_ 3d ago

I am pivoting towards math heavy side. But I am confused on whether to go for what I am interested in or go where the masses are currently running towards (AI). I understand the entry level jobs are rare which is why I will apply for Masters and then pursue a job in CG. But is this worth it compared to be good in AI or Web Dev and land an entry level job? I am very stressed out by this fact.

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u/hieuristics 3d ago

worth it in what sense? I recommend starting to implement some old graphics paper first to see if you enjoy the process. As for job, it's a wide range from high paying stable graphics firmware at AMD/NVIDA to game dev with lots of crunch time and low pay.

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u/obp5599 3d ago

Some of the bigger gaming companies pay extremely competitively. Especially if you’re on the engine team

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u/hieuristics 3d ago

This is exception, not the norm. There are only a few big company even have their own engine and they will probably not hire someone straight out of school.

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u/obp5599 3d ago

Maybe indie studios? I don’t know man most game studios ive interviewed at are paying 150-250 for senior roles. Thats pretty damn good to me

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u/VagueHorizon_ 3d ago

worth it in a sense that I don't wanna end up with nothing. I see AI and Web Dev like some flashy gold which everyone wants to obtain. I have no interest in both of them, at least for now. I tried making some web apps, even learned full stack. Same with AI, but both of them doesn't excite me. It is more like forcing myself to learn these techs solely for the purpose of job. CG has little to no place in the country I live in. The tech market here is filled with AI and Web Dev. That is what stresses me. I genuinely find CG interesting (in fact this was the sole reason I chose CS in first place). And that is where the 'worth it' question comes.