[dhconnelly]

Maybe the university you're talking about is different from the one I attended, but the only CS courses I took that involved proofs were algorithms and computabity theory. Compilers, operating systems, computer networking, data structures, AI, architecture, graphics, etc courses I took were very hands-on. Lots of projects... and we also read the fundamental papers in the field. And that broad knowledge base really is useful. And besides, there's lots of opportunities even as an undergrad to work with research teams on cutting-edge projects.

Like it or not, a university degree is worth years of experience and is often a barrier to entry at many many many top software companies. Not everywhere is a startup. If he's not sure what he wants to do, university is an even better decision.