@Enigma phil,
Well it's nice of you to finally introduce yourself here on this forum and hope you have time to get involved. Your honest introduction is also appreciated.
Society looks at ex-cons altogether different and whether it be a college, school or common work place environment. I think there's a lot of liability to consider when it comes to convicted felons in all areas. This isn't to say it's write or wrong, it's just the way it is, (no sugar coating it).
I'm not at all familiar with the first school you had mentioned in Sedona but I can offer you a bit of friendly advice on some of the others.
First, my most sincere advice is to stay as far away from scientology as you can. It's supposedly a religion... metaphysics has nothing to do with Religion.
University of Science and Philosophy - This is an accredited University but has no physical existence. Basically it's the teachings of two people, Walter and Lao Russell who have passed from this life. The University consists of board members, a president and a webmaster, (I'm the webmaster) and that's about it. However the backbone to the University is in the writings and lives of Walter and Lao Russell. I can say, with bias, that above all else you've read, the Home Study Course and the other books from the University of Science and Philosophy are some of the most important books released to modern society.
Read the
Man Who Tapped the Secrets of the Universe for a brief intro to Walter Russell and the USP. There is also some videos on the website that you can watch.
As for the rest of them... couldn't advise either way.
If you are looking for a degree in philosophy, ask yourself why? What is a degree going to achieve in metaphysics that you cannot achieve without a degree? What would be the purpose of this degree? Most of these highly enlightened illuminates had little or no education so that's why I ask.
Your seeking change is admired and I encourage you to continue seeking.
Enigma, there's a blog feature on this site in the top left and I would also encourage you to use that feature. Write about your thoughts and experiences during your incarceration and people can also comment. It's nice to get a different perspective on things.
Enjoy the forum!