Is a degree considered?

[PhilT]

I am trying to get a perspective of a manager or a person who hires digital artist's.

My question is does a degree make a difference when your looking to hire an artist? Or is it just the demo reel and portfolio that matters?

If a degree is preffered, what are some notable schools?

[inveni0]

Again with this question. Let's say that two artists show equal skill. The one with the degree wins.

[Buzzy]

I know some fantastic artists in the industry who never even graduated highschool. Hiring artists is not the same as hiring an accountant or a lawyer.... the school they went to does not matter. Their skill should be by far the most important consideration. After that you'd want to consider their social skills (how they work with others in a team). And that's about it. If a recruiter hires an artist on the sole grounds that they graduated from Full Sail or SCAD, that recruiter should be fired.

[RockstarKate]

At my company, they won't hire you without a bachelor's degree, although it doesn't matter what it's in. Just a company policy, I think.
However, quality of work is the most important factor.

[BiG ToE-3DT]

Like inveni0 said, if two equally skilled artist are up for the same job, the guy with the degree will win.