Time for a spanner in the works.
I also like yourself have a degree and an MSc in a technical subject and thought the ATPLs would be a breeze, they weren't. The amount of learning in such a short amount of time was a little shocking despite months of prep.
I couldn't have done my ATPLs DL due to my lack of motivation to study after a 12hr shift, it wouldn't have happened. I needed that 1-2-1 face to face interaction to ask questions and gain as much knowledge as possible before moving onto the next subject. The instructors at my school were all current or ex-airline pilots, so they can help give you the reality and practicality behind the theory. Some don't need or want that, I did.
It was also a great excuse for me to quit my job which I hated. The problem was finding another 6 months later :P