Careers in Software Development?

I have recently graduated from university and i got a job as a software developer and it pay £25,000. how long should it take me to cliam the career ledder and be able to earn £50,000

Careers in Software Development?
I take it you are an undergrad. It's a fairly good start, although if in the US you might get paid a little more. Career growth and earning potential definately depend on how much you can learn and produce. You need to constantly advance your skills and be a producer. You are young, so work hard, yes put in overtime, and try to team up with Sr. developers to learn more things from them. If you show that you are eager to learn, someone will teach you. If earning more money is your objective, than ask the A players at your company how to achieve this. They will probably tell you the same thing I did. Try to take on as much work as possible, but building your credibilty within your technical circles is key. If other developers respect your work than it will be easier to move into a lead position and finally a Sr. contributor. You will earn for the 50,000 pounds. And it may not take you 10 years to get there, you could do it in half the time if you want it bad enough.