Can't compare.
I am a University Lecturer and it is quite possible for a student at 17y to start with say a National Diploma (2 years no exams), a 3 year degree with very little examined content, an MSc by research, a Phd the same way and then a D.Lit.
Resits with no loss of credits available, even Accreditation of Prior Learning.
Walk in the park compared to the ATPL requirements.