The number of CS grads who don't even know basic Git commands is astounding

Original Article ↗ Hacker News Discussion ↗

Context of the Debate

  • Thread reacts to claim that many CS grads don’t know basic Git commands.
  • Core tension: is this a serious red flag, or a trivial gap easily fixed on the job?

CS vs. Software Engineering

  • Many distinguish “computer science” (theory, algorithms, math) from “software engineering” (tools, collaboration, delivery).
  • Some argue universities should train scientists, not provide vocational tooling like Git or containers.
  • Others counter that most CS grads become software engineers, so curricula should include at least basic engineering practices.

Should Git / Version Control Be Taught?

  • One camp: Git is implementation detail; concepts like graphs or algorithms matter more. Students can learn Git in a day.
  • Opposing view: version control is a foundational concept for collaborative programming; omitting it leaves a key practical gap.
  • Several say it’s easy to integrate Git or any VCS into existing coursework (e.g., assignments submitted via Git repos, group projects tracked via GitLab/GitHub).
  • Some cite courses or MOOCs (e.g., “missing semester” style, CS50-like tracks) that successfully bundle shell, Git, testing, etc.

Signals for Hiring

  • Some would not hire a junior who has never used any VCS in 2024; see it as evidence of limited curiosity or lack of substantial/group projects.
  • Others think Git knowledge is a minor detail compared to problem-solving ability and theoretical grounding; they’d happily let juniors learn it on the job.
  • Several suggest the real signal is learning speed: not knowing Git at 9am but being competent by end of day is acceptable.

Views on Git and Tooling

  • Broad agreement that Git is widely used but not perfect; some dislike its CLI and footguns, and see room for better VCS.
  • A few stress the difference between “knowing Git commands” and understanding concepts like history, branching, collaboration, and good commit hygiene.
  • Some report universities still using other systems (CVS, Fossil) or even CDs/email, illustrating wide variance in exposure.

Broader “Missing Basics” Theme

  • Multiple anecdotes about CS programs that assume students will pick up practical tools (Unix, SSH, editors, VCS) on their own.
  • Concern from some that this creates a large gap between “already-nerdy” students and those without prior exposure.