Og, you do have a good point.
I'm one of those academic people too, but never completed University. In some ways I regret it (and I do want to go back to do something else), but the course wasn't for me, even though it ran around the same houses to what I do. I actually managed to get a lot more experience at home, but for what I do, you don't need a degree/certifcates; Experience really is everything.
So it depends on what you want to do. If its something like 3D modeling, you do not need any extra courses, etc. Just a computer, and time for example. I learnt a lot more in a year at home than I did in even 3 years at college and 2 years at uni.
I do love learning though, so I've been thinking of going in for a music course or something. Something to keep me going along with work, but money is also important.
I wouldn't want to get a loan out, but I know I'd have to if I wanted to go back into education. But that is one thing stopping me. Plus, I have no idea what I really want to do yet, and I'm 23 so... hmm...
I think if its something you want to do, do it, but don't just think that courses/uni (or whatever) is the answer to all, because its not.
All it does is lets interviewers see what you could easily be capable of doing with experience anyway.
There are many places that'll take you on based on experience, and will even teach you whilst getting paid.
Take into account that I've done some freelancing in 3D for some companies, and yet, my class mates at Uni, or at least the ones I still speak to haven't done anything with their degree. Nothing.
But like I said, the field I am into doesn't need a BA honors degree for people to see you are capable.