While enrolled in college, I got my BS in math and computer science. I also enrolled at the school's aviation school. I graduated with my CFI/CFII/MEI and about 500 hours without any BS/certificate of completion in the college of aviation. I didn't take any of the psychology classes/non-flying classes that are required for such a degree. The only real downside was that when it came to registering for a flight slot, I was always the last one to get to choose because those actually pursuing an aviation degree always got first pick. I almost always got a Tues-Thurs-Sat 8a slot, but I didn't really mind. I just couldn't party on Fridays

I recommend going the route I did. Most colleges will let you take some aviation courses without actually getting a degree. It might help if you, as I did, transfer into those courses with at least a PPL (I had my PPL and IRA).