I'm into my 3rd semester now. I'm doing it to extend my knowledge but, after having done a couple of semesters, I have found that it is improving my research skills. This is the first Uni course I have ever done - I'm 46 so it's been a long time since school
Its not cheap at $990 - $1100 per unit but my aim is to complete the Masters level - eventually. Of course having my own observatory helps when it comes to the main projects for each unit but you don't need any observing equipment - the course does allow for participants to research subjects.
Typically the units consist of full online forum participation (assessed over 3 periods within each semester), a 2000 word Essay, two written exams and a main project. Obtaining less that 35% for any single component will result in a failure for the whole unit so you must be prepared to work the entire period.
Cheers