Interesting discussion. I agree that the ATPL theory is barely worth comparing to A levels. That being said, the job itself of piloting a commercial airliner does require significant levels of technical expertise, experience, human skills and higher cognitive function.
Especially when troubleshooting and problem solving in the air in a hostile and often time constrained environment.
Let’s just say this: What is the probability that the average airline operator could not pass an average university course? I would say zero.
Remember, 90% of courses at university nowadays should not be there in the first place. But if we look at University as what it, in my opinion, should be (SCIENCE) then there should be no comparison.