Hello Phil
Kapton is correct, 17 months is not that long to finish your degree. In my calculation with all your student holidays you only have about 3 weeks of study left.
Once you have your degree it will open up many job opportunities. If you still what a licence remember it takes a minimum of five years to get, wether you study full or part time. I have know a guy with a degree who worked in the technical department. Studied for his exams part time. He did his work experience doing overtime.
Now licenced I am sure if he wished to move up the career ladder, his degree I am sure will be an asset.
Good luck mate