Slightly related (well, on the distance/home study aspect), I'm doing a course with ITEC (www.irishtraining.ie).
I've had no problems so far.
Thing to be aware of is the reasoning for doing such a course. Personally I don't think employers would give such courses any credit.
I'm merely doing mine as an introduction to a completely different area from my original qualifications. If I like what I'm doing during this course, I'll then investigate a part-time course with a more recognised institution. If I don't like it, I won't have wasted time/money in the meantime.