I work shifts which has worked really well with my distance learning course. I basically have 2 shifts 0600 - 1330 or 1330 - 2100. I live really close to work & this allows me to put in around 6 hrs a day.
But it is a hard slog and if I could've I would've gone for residential. I have just completed my first 8 exams awaiting results. It took me about 5 months to get through the first lot. and I expect about 4 months for the next lot.
Good luck with it mate!