Floody I think this can be attributed to the influence of America where there are huge colleges there such as Embry-Riddle Aeronautical College in the US and various other unis etc where its been a norm to get cpl etc and learn at a uni, with perception there that a degree will aid job prospects etc
Whilst these arent essential for airlines like direct entry to qf or the cadetships a uni course couldnt hurt and in some cases are preferential in applications (but in these times of a pilot shortage it is less important imho) but i agree somewhat a 3 yr course is a bit ardous if not a cadetship with an airline or guaranteed employment, after all there is the opportunity to do a uni course once established and in an airline via long distance or even part time as many airline/commercial pilots do. But I have no problems with these courses and most are very good,
but then again I wont ask you about cadetships floody coz we know what you think
Thats my take anyways,
Matt