[ruttiger]

I wouldn't hire anyone based on where they learned. I want to see what they've made, and see how they answer some coding questions -- not "why are manhole covers round", but questions about software design, and anything to give a hint about how much experience they have solving coding issues.

I'd ask if they had a blog, or a website they built, or a hobby they're working on. I'd prefer to see a candidate that's passionate about software - that turns on her computer when everyone else is sleeping because she heard about a new framework or language or service on Amazon that she wants to play with.

There are uninspired graduates of good computer science programs, and there are hidden superstars that taught themselves, with no idea how good they are.

Bottom line - experience and passion matter more than where they studied.