In the Uk degrees just don't matter. The ATPL is your degree. When you train to do another profession you don't do a random degree first you just train for that job for heavens sake.
3-4 years at uni just puts you behind. I have had this debate so many times and over the years it is always the same. The only difference between people who went to uni and the others is that ex uni students are older and in more debt.
A degree is a tremendous accomplishment and something you should be proud of but I think a new guy coming into this industry should just concentrate on Flying and save his money. Remember you have to pay all the debt back one day!!!
Wanabees just go for it. You will never look back.