Universal Technical Institute (UTI) 10-K 2 Dec 15 2015 FY Annual report Financial data

Document and Entity Information

Document and Entity Information - USD ($)	12 Months Ended
	Sep. 30, 2015	Nov. 23, 2015	Mar. 31, 2015
Document Documentand Entity Information [Abstract]
Entity Registrant Name	UNIVERSAL TECHNICAL INSTITUTE INC.
Entity Central Index Key	1,261,654
Current Fiscal Year End Date	--09-30
Entity Filer Category	Accelerated Filer
Document Type	10-K
Document Period End Date	Sep. 30, 2015
Document Fiscal Year Focus	2,015
Document Fiscal Period Focus	FY
Amendment Flag	false
Entity Common Stock, Shares Outstanding		24,233,296
Trading Symbol	UTI
Entity Well-known Seasoned Issuer	No
Entity Voluntary Filers	No
Entity Current Reporting Status	Yes
Entity Public Float			$ 204,800,000

CONSOLIDATED BALANCE SHEETS

CONSOLIDATED BALANCE SHEETS - USD ($) $ in Thousands	Sep. 30, 2015	Sep. 30, 2014
Current assets:
Cash and cash equivalents	$ 29,438	$ 38,985
Restricted cash	5,824	6,544
Investments, current portion	28,086	45,906
Receivables, net	22,409	12,118
Deferred tax assets, net	4,539	7,470
Prepaid expenses and other current assets	17,761	16,509
Total current assets	108,057	127,532
Investments, less current portion	1,719	11,257
Property and equipment, net	124,144	106,927
Goodwill	8,222	20,579
Deferred tax assets, net	20,248	11,923
Other assets	11,912	9,851
Total assets	274,302	288,069
Current liabilities:
Accounts payable and accrued expenses	42,620	38,827
Dividends Payable	485	0
Deferred revenue	44,693	46,365
Accrued tool sets	3,624	3,806
Construction liability, current	0	1,252
Financing obligation, current	737	5,234
Income tax payable	1,187	4,336
Other current liabilities	3,148	2,515
Total current liabilities	96,494	102,335
Deferred rent liability	10,822	10,323
Financing obligation	44,053	32,478
Other liabilities	9,458	9,741
Total liabilities	$ 160,827	$ 154,877
Commitments and contingencies (Note 13)
Shareholders' equity:
Common stock, $0.0001 par value, 100,000,000 shares authorized, 31,098,193 shares issued and 24,233,296 shares outstanding as of September 30, 2015 and 30,838,460 shares issued and 24,825,881 shares outstanding as of September 30, 2014	$ 3	$ 3
Preferred stock, $0.0001 par value, 10,000,000 shares authorized; 0 shares issued and outstanding	0	0
Paid-in capital	178,202	174,376
Treasury stock, at cost, 6,864,897 shares as of September 30, 2015 and 6,012,579 as of September 30, 2014	(97,388)	(90,769)
Retained earnings	32,638	49,582
Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Net of Tax	20	0
Total shareholders' equity	113,475	133,192
Total liabilities and shareholders' equity	$ 274,302	$ 288,069

CONSOLIDATED BALANCE SHEETS (Pa

CONSOLIDATED BALANCE SHEETS (Parenthetical) - $ / shares	Sep. 30, 2015	Sep. 30, 2014
Statement of Financial Position [Abstract]
Common stock, par value	$ 0.0001	$ 0.0001
Common stock, shares authorized	100,000,000	100,000,000
Common stock, shares issued	0	30,838,460
Common stock, shares outstanding	0	24,825,881
Preferred stock, par value	$ 0.0001	$ 0.0001
Preferred stock, shares authorized	10,000,000	10,000,000
Preferred stock, shares issued	0	0
Preferred stock, shares outstanding	0	0
Treasury stock, at cost	6,012,579	6,012,579

CONSOLIDATED INCOME STATEMENTS

CONSOLIDATED INCOME STATEMENTS - USD ($) shares in Thousands, $ in Thousands	3 Months Ended								12 Months Ended
	Sep. 30, 2015	Jun. 30, 2015	Mar. 31, 2015	Dec. 31, 2014	Sep. 30, 2014	Jun. 30, 2014	Mar. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2013	Sep. 30, 2015	Sep. 30, 2014	Sep. 30, 2013
Income Statement [Abstract]
Revenues	$ 90,653	$ 85,106	$ 91,235	$ 95,680	$ 95,313	$ 91,329	$ 94,711	$ 97,040	$ 362,674	$ 378,393	$ 380,322
Operating expenses:
Educational services and facilities									194,416	200,054	199,540
Selling, general and administrative									165,124	172,002	174,757
Goodwill Impairment				12,400					12,357	0	0
Total operating expenses									371,897	372,056	374,297
Income (loss) from operations	(13,229)	(3,996)	2,402	5,600	3,880	1,011	(1,612)	3,058	(9,223)	6,337	6,025
Other income:
Interest income									215	223	235
Interest expense									(2,340)	(1,847)	(1)
Equity in earnings of unconsolidated affiliate									527	471	0
Other income									140	563	655
Total other (expense) income, net									(1,458)	(590)	889
Income (loss) before income taxes									(10,681)	5,747	6,914
Income tax expense (benefit)									(1,532)	3,710	3,013
Net income (loss)	$ (9,823)	$ (2,975)	$ 555	$ 3,094	$ 1,584	$ 366	$ (1,620)	$ 1,707	(9,149)	2,037	3,901
Comprehensive Income (Loss)									$ (9,129)	$ 2,037	$ 3,901
Earnings per share:
Net income (loss) per share - basic	$ (0.41)	$ (0.12)	$ 0.02	$ 0.12	$ 0.06	$ 0.01	$ (0.07)	$ 0.07	$ (0.38)	$ 0.08	$ 0.16
Net income (loss) per share- diluted	$ (0.41)	$ (0.12)	$ 0.02	$ 0.12	$ 0.06	$ 0.01	$ (0.07)	$ 0.07	$ (0.38)	$ 0.08	$ 0.16
Weighted average number of shares outstanding:
Basic									24,391	24,640	24,515
Diluted									24,391	24,920	24,704
Cash dividends declared per common share									$ 0.32	$ 0.40	$ 0.40

CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF SHAR

CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF SHAREHOLDERS' EQUITY - USD ($) shares in Thousands, $ in Thousands	Total	Common Stock	Paid-in Capital	Treasury Stock	Retained Earnings
Beginning Balance, shares at Sep. 30, 2012		30,222		5,331
Beginning Balance at Sep. 30, 2012	$ 146,388	$ 3	$ 166,970	$ (83,924)	$ 63,339
Net income (loss)	3,901				3,901
Issuance of common stock under employee plans, shares		421
Issuance of common stock under employee plans	525	$ 0	525
Shares withheld for payroll taxes, shares		(107)		0
Shares withheld for payroll taxes	(1,263)	$ 0	(1,263)	$ 0
Tax benefit from employee stock plans	(1,059)		(1,059)
Stock-based compensation	5,914		5,914
Shares repurchased, shares				561
Shares repurchased	(5,422)			$ (5,422)
Cash dividends declared	(9,820)				(9,820)
Ending Balance, shares at Sep. 30, 2013		30,536		5,892
Ending Balance at Sep. 30, 2013	139,164	$ 3	171,087	$ (89,346)	57,420
Net income (loss)	2,037				2,037
Issuance of common stock under employee plans, shares		453
Issuance of common stock under employee plans	0	$ 0	0
Shares withheld for payroll taxes, shares		(151)
Shares withheld for payroll taxes	(1,639)	$ 0	(1,639)
Tax benefit from employee stock plans	(945)		(945)
Stock-based compensation	5,873		5,873
Shares repurchased, shares				121
Shares repurchased	(1,423)			$ (1,423)
Cash dividends declared	(9,875)				(9,875)
Ending Balance, shares at Sep. 30, 2014		30,838		6,013
Ending Balance at Sep. 30, 2014	133,192	$ 3	174,376	$ (90,769)	49,582
Net income (loss)	(9,149)				(9,149)
Issuance of common stock under employee plans, shares		383
Issuance of common stock under employee plans	0	$ 0	0
Shares withheld for payroll taxes, shares		(123)
Shares withheld for payroll taxes	(519)	$ 0	(519)
Stock-based compensation	4,345		4,345
Shares repurchased, shares				852
Shares repurchased	(6,619)			$ (6,619)
Cash dividends declared	(7,795)	$ (7,300)			(7,795)
Ending Balance, shares at Sep. 30, 2015		31,098		6,865
Ending Balance at Sep. 30, 2015	$ 113,475	$ 3	$ 178,202	$ (97,388)	$ 32,638

CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF CASH

CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF CASH FLOWS - USD ($) $ in Thousands	12 Months Ended
	Sep. 30, 2015	Sep. 30, 2014	Sep. 30, 2013
Cash flows from operating activities:
Net income (loss)	$ (9,149)	$ 2,037	$ 3,901
Adjustments to reconcile net income to net cash provided by operating activities:
Depreciation and amortization	17,294	18,923	22,156
Amortization of assets subject to financing obligation	1,861	1,551	0
Amortization of held-to-maturity investments	1,627	2,393	2,023
Goodwill Impairment	12,357	0	0
Bad debt expense	1,589	3,972	4,720
Stock-based compensation	4,265	5,721	6,224
Excess tax benefit from stock-based compensation	0	(85)	0
Deferred Income Taxes	(5,394)	(4,050)	(3,794)
Equity in earnings of unconsolidated affiliate	(527)	(471)	0
Training equipment credits earned, net	(899)	(1,002)	(1,926)
Loss on disposal of property and equipment	24	402	184
Changes in assets and liabilities:
Restricted cash: Title IV credit balances	60	230	(6)
Receivables	(11,443)	(2,701)	(1,338)
Prepaid expenses and other current assets	(1,065)	(767)	1,487
Other assets	(677)	(514)	(1,222)
Accounts payable and accrued expenses	2,705	(1,859)	(700)
Deferred revenue	(1,672)	(660)	(5,649)
Income tax payable/receivable	(3,149)	4,053	(659)
Accrued tool sets and other current liabilities	1,678	530	896
Deferred rent liability	(753)	(1,610)	(1,013)
Other liabilities	(490)	963	1,443
Net cash provided by operating activities	8,242	27,056	26,727
Cash flows from investing activities:
Purchase of property and equipment	(29,030)	(12,024)	(9,352)
Proceeds from disposal of property and equipment	3	42	54
Purchase of investments	(26,061)	(61,729)	(111,848)
Proceeds received upon maturity of investments	51,792	63,892	104,094
Capitalized costs for intangible assets	(453)	0	0
Return of capital contribution from unconsolidated affiliate	464	568	0
Restricted cash: proprietary loan program	607	49	(3,710)
Net cash used in investing activities	(2,678)	(9,202)	(20,762)
Cash flows from financing activities:
Payment of cash dividends	(7,310)	(9,875)	(9,820)
Repayments of financing obligation	(663)	(613)	0
Payment of payroll taxes on stock-based compensation through shares withheld	(519)	(1,639)	(1,263)
Proceeds from issuance of common stock under employee plans	0	0	525
Excess tax benefit from stock-based compensation	0	85	0
Purchase of treasury stock	(6,619)	(1,423)	(5,422)
Net cash used in financing activities	(15,111)	(13,465)	(15,980)
Net increase (decrease) in cash and cash equivalents	(9,547)	4,389	(10,015)
Cash and cash equivalents, beginning of period	38,985	34,596
Cash and cash equivalents, end of period	29,438	38,985	34,596
Supplemental disclosure of cash flow information:
Taxes paid	7,010	3,771	7,467
Interest Paid	2,340	1,967	1
Training equipment obtained in exchange for services	969	2,473	1,164
Depreciation of training equipment obtained in exchange for services	1,168	1,215	1,095
Change in accrued capital expenditures during the period	435	820	(1,088)
Construction in period construction liability - construction in progress	0	7,120	25,211
Construction period financing obligation-building	(4,825)	4,825	0
Construction liability recognized as financing obligation	12,316	33,500	0
Stock based compensation classified as liability instruments	0	0	310
Vesting of stock based compensation liability	$ 80	$ 152	$ 0

Business Description

Business Description	12 Months Ended
	Sep. 30, 2015
Organization, Consolidation and Presentation of Financial Statements [Abstract]
Business Description	Business Description Universal Technical Institute, Inc. (“UTI” or, collectively, “we”, "us" and “our”) provides postsecondary education for students seeking careers as professional automotive, diesel, collision repair, motorcycle and marine technicians. We offer undergraduate degree or diploma programs at 12 campuses and advanced training programs that are sponsored by the manufacturer or dealer at certain campuses and dedicated training centers. We work closely with leading original equipment manufacturers in the automotive, diesel, motorcycle and marine industries to understand their needs for qualified service professionals. Revenues generated from our schools consist primarily of tuition and fees paid by students. To pay for a substantial portion of their tuition, the majority of students rely on funds received from federal financial aid programs under Title IV Programs of the Higher Education Act of 1965, as amended (HEA), as well as various veterans benefits programs. For further discussion, see Concentration of Risk under Note 2 and Note 18 “Governmental Regulation and Financial Aid”.

Summary of Significant Accounti

Summary of Significant Accounting Policies	12 Months Ended
	Sep. 30, 2015
Accounting Policies [Abstract]
Summary of Significant Accounting Policies	Summary of Significant Accounting Policies Principles of Consolidation The accompanying consolidated financial statements include the accounts of UTI and its wholly owned subsidiaries. All significant intercompany accounts and transactions have been eliminated. Use of Estimates The preparation of financial statements in accordance with accounting principles generally accepted in the United States requires management to make certain estimates and assumptions. Such estimates and assumptions affect the reported amounts of assets, liabilities, revenues and expenses and related disclosures of contingent assets and liabilities. On an ongoing basis, we evaluate our estimates and assumptions, including those related to revenue recognition, our proprietary loan program, allowance for uncollectible accounts, investments, property and equipment, goodwill recoverability, self-insurance claim liabilities, income taxes, contingencies and stock-based compensation. We base our estimates on historical experience and on various other assumptions that we believe are reasonable under the circumstances. The results of our analysis form the basis for making judgments about the carrying values of assets and liabilities that are not readily apparent from other sources. Actual results may differ from these estimates under different assumptions or conditions, and the impact of such differences may be material to our consolidated financial statements. Revenue Recognition Revenues consist primarily of student tuition and fees derived from the programs we provide after reductions are made for discounts and scholarships we sponsor, refunds for students who withdraw from our programs prior to specified dates and the portion of tuition students have funded through our proprietary loan program for which payment has not been received. Tuition and fee revenue is recognized ratably over the term of the course or program offered. Approximately 98% of our revenues for each of the years ended September 30, 2015 , 2014 and 2013 consisted of tuition. The majority of our undergraduate programs are designed to be completed in 45 to 102 weeks and our advanced training programs range from 11 to 24 weeks in duration. We supplement our revenues with sales of textbooks and program supplies and other revenues, which are recognized as sales occur or services are performed. Deferred revenue represents the excess of tuition and fee payments received as compared to tuition and fees earned and is reflected as a current liability in our consolidated balance sheets because it is expected to be earned within the next 12 months. Proprietary Loan Program In order to provide funding for students who are not able to fully finance the cost of their education under traditional governmental financial aid programs, commercial loan programs or other alternative sources, we established a private loan program with a bank. Under terms of the proprietary loan program, the bank originates loans for our students who meet our specific credit criteria with the related proceeds used exclusively to fund a portion of their tuition. We then purchase all such loans from the bank at least monthly and assume all of the related credit risk. The loans bear interest at market rates; however, principal and interest payments are not required until six months after the student completes or withdraws from his or her program. After the deferral period, monthly principal and interest payments are required over the related term of the loan. The bank provides these services in exchange for a fee at a percentage of the principal balance of each loan and related fees. Under the terms of the related agreement, we transfer funds for loan purchases to a deposit account with the bank in advance of the bank funding the loan, which secures our related loan purchase obligation. Such funds are classified as restricted cash in our consolidated balance sheet. In substance, we provide the students who participate in this program with extended payment terms for a portion of their tuition and as a result, we account for the underlying transactions in accordance with our tuition revenue recognition policy. However, due to the nature of the program coupled with the extended payment terms required under the student loan agreements, collectability is not reasonably assured. Accordingly, we recognize tuition and loan origination fees financed by the loan and any related interest income required under the loan when such amounts are collected. All related expenses incurred with the bank or other service providers are expensed as incurred within educational services and facilities expense and were approximately $1.4 million , $1.5 million and $2.0 million for the years ended September 30, 2015, 2014 and 2013, respectively. Since loan collectability is not reasonably assured, the loans and related deferred tuition revenue are not recognized in our consolidated balance sheets. The following table summarizes the impact of the proprietary loan program on our tuition revenue and interest income during each period in our consolidated statements of comprehensive income as well as on a cumulative basis at the end of the current period. Tuition revenue and interest income excluded represents amounts which would have been recognized during the period had collectability of the related amounts been assured. Amounts collected and recognized represent actual cash receipts during the period. Year Ended September 30, Inception to date 2015 2014 2013 Tuition and interest income excluded $ 24,192 $ 26,042 $ 22,977 $ 120,093 Amounts collected and recognized (5,440 ) (3,457 ) (2,277 ) (13,919 ) Net amount excluded during the period $ 18,752 $ 22,585 $ 20,700 $ 106,174 As of September 30, 2015, we had committed to provide loans to our students for approximately $123.9 million since inception. The following table summarizes the activity related to the balances outstanding under our proprietary loan program, including loans outstanding, interest and origination fees, which are not recognized in our consolidated balance sheets. Amounts written off represent amounts which have been turned over to third party collectors; such amounts are not included within bad debt expense in our consolidated statements of comprehensive income. Year Ended September 30, 2015 2014 Balance at beginning of period $ 70,759 $ 59,767 Loans extended 18,740 22,174 Interest accrued 3,108 2,835 Amounts collected and recognized (5,440 ) (3,457 ) Amounts written off (12,503 ) (10,560 ) Balance at end of period $ 74,664 $ 70,759 Restricted Cash Restricted cash primarily represents the funds transferred in advance of loan purchases under our proprietary loan program. Restricted cash also includes funds held for students from Title IV financial aid program funds that result in credit balances on a student’s account. Changes in restricted cash that represent funds held for students as described above are included in cash flows from operating activities on our consolidated statements of cash flows because these restricted funds are related to the core activity of our operations. Allowance for Uncollectible Accounts We maintain an allowance for uncollectible accounts for estimated losses resulting from the inability, failure or refusal of our students to make required payments. We offer a variety of payment plans to help students pay that portion of their education expenses not covered by financial aid programs or alternate fund sources, which are unsecured and not guaranteed. Management analyzes accounts receivable, historical percentages of uncollectible accounts, customer credit worthiness and changes in payment history when evaluating the adequacy of the allowance for uncollectible accounts. We use an internal group of collectors, augmented by third party collectors as deemed appropriate, in our collection efforts. Although we believe that our allowance is adequate, if the financial condition of our students deteriorates, resulting in an impairment of their ability to make payments, or if we underestimate the allowances required, additional allowances may be necessary, which would result in increased selling, general and administrative expenses in the period such determination is made. Investments We invest in pre-funded municipal bonds which are generally secured by escrowed-to-maturity U.S. Treasury notes. Municipal bonds represent debt obligations issued by states, cities, counties and other governmental entities, which earn interest that is exempt from federal income taxes. Additionally, we invest in certificates of deposit issued by financial institutions and corporate bonds from large cap industrial and selected financial companies with a minimum credit rating of A. We have the ability and intention to hold our investments until maturity and therefore classify these investments as held-to-maturity and report them at amortized cost. Investments with an original maturity date of 90 days or less at the time of purchase are classified as cash equivalents and investments with a maturity date greater than one year at the end of the period are classified as non-current. We review our held-to-maturity investments for impairment quarterly to determine if other-than-temporary declines in the carrying value have occurred for any individual investment. Other-than-temporary declines in the value of our held-to-maturity investments are recorded as expense in the period in which the determination is made. We determined that no other-than-temporary declines occurred in our held-to-maturity investments during the years ended September 30, 2015 and 2014. Property and Equipment Property, equipment and leasehold improvements are recorded at cost less accumulated depreciation and amortization. Depreciation and amortization expense are calculated using the straight-line method over the estimated useful lives of the related assets. Amortization of leasehold improvements is calculated using the straight-line method over the remaining useful life of the asset or term of lease, whichever is shorter. Costs relating to software developed for internal use and curriculum development are capitalized and amortized using the straight-line method over the related estimated useful lives. Such costs include direct costs of materials and services as well as payroll and related costs for employees who are directly associated with the projects. Maintenance and repairs are expensed as incurred. We review the carrying value of our property and equipment for possible impairment whenever events or changes in circumstances indicate that the carrying amounts may not be recoverable. We evaluate our long-lived assets for impairment by examining estimated future cash flows. These cash flows are evaluated by using probability weighting techniques as well as comparisons of past performance against projections. Assets may also be evaluated by identifying independent market values. If we determine that an asset’s carrying value is impaired, we will write-down the carrying value of the asset to its estimated fair value and charge the impairment as an operating expense in the period in which the determination is made. There were no impairment charges required for the years ended September 30, 2015, 2014 or 2013. Goodwill Goodwill represents the excess of the cost of an acquired business over the estimated fair values of the assets acquired and liabilities assumed. Goodwill is reviewed at least annually for impairment, which may result from the deterioration in the operating performance of the acquired business, adverse market conditions, adverse changes in the applicable laws or regulations and a variety of other circumstances. Any resulting impairment charge would be recognized as an expense in the period in which impairment is identified. Our goodwill resulted from the acquisition of our motorcycle and marine education business in 1998, and was allocated to two of our reporting units that provide the related educational programs. Our recorded goodwill was $8.2 million as of September 30, 2015. We assess our goodwill for impairment during the fourth quarter of each fiscal year. The change in the carrying value of goodwill is as follows: Balance as of September 30, 2014 $ 20,579 Impairment (12,357 ) Balance as of September 30, 2015 $ 8,222 At September 30, 2015, we recorded a goodwill impairment of $12.4 million . We performed the first step of our goodwill impairment test using a discounted cash flow model that incorporated estimated future cash flows for the next five years and an associated terminal value. Key management assumptions included in the cash flow model included future tuition revenues, operating costs, working capital changes, capital expenditures and a discount rate. The majority of the inputs are unobservable and thus are considered to be Level 3 inputs. During the fourth quarter of 2015, the decline in new student starts at the MMI Phoenix, Arizona campus, combined with modifications to certain other assumptions underlying the estimates, resulted in a decrease in fair value for this reporting unit. We determined that the carrying value of this reporting unit exceeded its fair value, indicating goodwill impairment existed. The result of our valuation indicated that there was no remaining implied value attributable to goodwill in our MMI Phoenix, Arizona campus and accordingly, we expensed all $12.4 million of the goodwill associated with that campus as of September 30, 2015. There was no impairment of the $8.2 million of goodwill related to our MMI Orlando, Florida campus. There were no impairment charges required for the year ended September 30, 2014. Actual experience may differ from the amounts included in our assessment, which could result in additional impairment of our goodwill in the future. Self-Insurance Plans We are self-insured for claims related to employee health and dental care and claims related to workers’ compensation. Liabilities associated with these plans are estimated by management with consideration of our historical loss experience, severity factors and independent actuarial analysis. Our claim liabilities are based on estimates, and while we believe the amounts accrued are adequate, the ultimate losses may differ from the amounts provided. Our recorded liability related to self-insurance plans was $3.5 million as of September 30, 2015. Deferred Rent Liability We lease the majority of our administrative and educational facilities under operating lease agreements. Some lease agreements contain tenant improvement allowances, free rent periods or rent escalation clauses. In instances where one or more of these items are included in a lease agreement, we record a deferred rent liability on the consolidated balance sheet and record rent expense evenly over the term of the lease. Advertising Costs Costs related to advertising are expensed as incurred and totaled approximately $44.7 million , $39.2 million and $37.0 million for the years ended September 30, 2015, 2014 and 2013, respectively. Stock-Based Compensation Historically, we have issued restricted stock awards and restricted stock units with vesting subject to service conditions and stock options. We measure all share-based payments to employees at estimated fair value. We recognize the compensation expense for restricted stock awards and restricted stock units with only service conditions on a straight-line basis over the requisite service period. We did not grant stock options during the years ended September 30, 2015, 2014 and 2013. Shares issued under our equity compensation plans are new shares. Compensation expense associated with restricted stock awards and restricted stock units is measured based on the grant date fair value of our common stock, discounted for non-participation in anticipated dividends during the vesting period. The requisite service period for restricted stock awards and restricted stock units is generally the vesting period. Compensation expense is recognized only for those awards that are expected to vest, which we estimate based upon historical forfeitures. Stock-based compensation expense of $4.3 million , $5.7 million and $6.2 million (pre-tax) was recorded for the years ended September 30, 2015, 2014 and 2013, respectively. The tax benefit related to stock-based compensation recognized was $1.6 million , $2.3 million and $2.4 million for the years ended September 30, 2015, 2014 and 2013, respectively. Income Taxes We recognize deferred tax assets and liabilities for the estimated future tax consequences of events attributable to differences between the financial statement carrying amounts of existing assets and liabilities and their respective tax bases. We also recognize deferred tax assets for net operating loss and tax credit carryforwards. Deferred tax assets and liabilities are measured using enacted tax rates in effect for the year in which the differences are expected to be recovered or settled. Deferred tax assets are reduced through a valuation allowance if it is more likely than not that the deferred tax assets will not be realized. Concentration of Risk Financial instruments that potentially subject us to concentrations of credit risk consist principally of cash and cash equivalents, restricted cash, investments and receivables. As of September 30, 2015, we held cash and cash equivalents of $29.4 million , restricted cash of $5.8 million and investments of $29.8 million invested in pre-funded municipal bonds, collateralized by escrowed-to-maturity U.S. treasury notes, certificates of deposit issued by financial institutions and corporate bonds. We place our cash and cash equivalents and restricted cash with high quality financial institutions and limit the amount of credit exposure with any one financial institution. We mitigate the concentration risk of our investments by limiting the amount invested in any one issuer. We mitigate the risk associated with our investment in corporate bonds by requiring a minimum credit rating of A. We extend credit for tuition and fees, for a limited period of time, to a majority of our students. A substantial portion is repaid through the student’s participation in federally funded financial aid programs. Transfers of funds from the financial aid programs to us are made in accordance with the U.S. Department of Education (ED) requirements. Approximately 66% of our revenues, on a cash basis, were collected from funds distributed under Title IV Programs for the year ended September 30, 2015. This percentage differs from our Title IV percentage as calculated under the 90/10 rule due to the prescribed treatment of certain Title IV stipends under the rule. Additionally, approximately 20% of our revenues, on a cash basis, were collected from funds distributed under various veterans benefits programs for the year ended September 30, 2015. The financial aid and veterans benefits programs are subject to political and budgetary considerations. There is no assurance that such funding will be maintained at current levels. Extensive and complex regulations govern the financial assistance programs in which our students participate. Our administration of these programs is periodically reviewed by various regulatory agencies. Any regulatory violation could be the basis for the initiation of potential adverse actions, including a suspension, limitation, placement on reimbursement status or termination proceeding, which could have a material adverse effect on our business. If any of our institutions were to lose its eligibility to participate in federal student financial aid programs, the students at that institution would lose access to funds derived from those programs and would have to seek alternative sources of funds to pay their tuition and fees. Students obtain access to federal student financial aid through an ED prescribed application and eligibility certification process. Student financial aid funds are generally made available to students at prescribed intervals throughout their predetermined expected length of study. Students typically apply the funds received from the federal financial aid programs to pay their tuition and fees. The transfer of funds is from the financial aid program to the student, who then uses those funds to pay for a portion of the cost of their education. The receipt of financial aid funds reduces the student’s amounts due to us and has no impact on revenue recognition, as the transfer relates to the source of funding for the costs of education, which may occur either through Title IV or other funds and resources available to the student. Fair Value of Financial Instruments The carrying value of cash equivalents, restricted cash, accounts receivable, accounts payable, accrued liabilities and deferred tuition approximates their respective fair value as of September 30, 2015 and 2014 due to the short-term nature of these instruments. Comprehensive Income During the year ended September 30, 2012, we invested $4.0 million to acquire an equity interest in a joint venture (JV) related to the lease of our Lisle, Illinois campus facility. Currently, the JV uses an interest rate cap to manage interest rate risk associated with its floating rate debt. This derivative instrument is designated as a cash flow hedge based on the nature of the risk being hedged. As such, the effective portion of the gain or loss on the derivative is initially reported as a component of the JV’s accumulated other comprehensive income or loss, net of tax, and is subsequently reclassified into earnings when the hedged transaction affects earnings. Any ineffective portion of the gain or loss is recognized in the JV’s current earnings. Due to our equity method investment in the JV, when the JV reports a current year component of other comprehensive income (OCI), we, as an investor, likewise adjust our investment account for the change in investee equity. In addition, we adjust our OCI for our share of the JV’s currently reported OCI item. For the year ended September 30, 2015, our share of the JV’s OCI was less than $0.1 million. Start-up Costs Costs related to the start-up of new campuses are expensed as incurred.

Recent Accounting Pronouncement

Recent Accounting Pronouncements (Notes)	12 Months Ended
	Sep. 30, 2015
New Accounting Pronouncements and Changes in Accounting Principles [Abstract]
Description of New Accounting Pronouncements Not yet Adopted [Text Block]	Recent Accounting Pronouncements In November 2015, the FASB issued guidance which simplifies the balance sheet classification of deferred taxes. The guidance requires that all deferred tax assets and liabilities, along with any related valuation allowance, be classified as noncurrent on the balance sheet. This guidance is effective for public business entities for annual periods, and for interim periods within those periods, beginning after December 15, 2016 with early adoption permitted. We intend to adopt this guidance for our fiscal year ending September 30, 2018. While the guidance will have an impact on our balance sheet classification, we do not anticipate it will have a material impact on our results of operations, financial condition or the financial statement disclosures. In April 2015, the Financial Accounting Standards Board (FASB) issued guidance related to customer’s accounting for fees paid in a cloud computing arrangement. The guidance provides clarification on whether a cloud computing arrangement includes a software license. If an arrangement includes a software license, then the software license element is accounted for consistent with the acquisition of other such licenses. If the arrangement does not include a software license, the arrangement is accounted for as a service contract. Entities have the option of adopting the guidance retrospectively or prospectively. The guidance is effective for annual periods, including interim periods within those periods, beginning after December 15, 2015 with early adoption permitted. We are currently evaluating both the adoption method and the impact that the update will have on our results of operations, financial condition and the financial statement disclosures. In February 2015, the FASB issued guidance which changes the analysis that a reporting entity must perform to determine whether it should consolidate certain types of legal entities. Specifically, the amendments (1) modify the evaluation of whether limited partnerships with similar legal entities are variable interest entities (VIEs) or voting interest entities, (2) eliminate the presumption that a general partner should consolidate a limited partnership, (3) affect the consolidation analysis of reporting entities that are involved with VIEs, particularly those that have fee arrangements and related party relationships and (4) provide a scope exception from consolidation guidance for reporting entities with interests in legal entities that are required to comply with or operate in accordance with requirements that are similar to those in Rule 2a-7 of the Investment Company Act of 1940 for registered money market funds. Entities have the option of using a full or modified retrospective approach to adopt the guidance. This guidance is effective for public business entities for fiscal years, and for interim periods within those fiscal years, beginning after December 15, 2015 with early adoption permitted. We intend to adopt this guidance for our fiscal year ending September 30, 2017 and do not anticipate it will have a material impact on our results of operations, financial condition and the financial statement disclosures. In May 2014, the FASB issued guidance which outlines a single comprehensive revenue model for entities to use in accounting for revenue arising from contracts with customers. The guidance supersedes most current revenue recognition guidance, including industry-specific guidance, and requires a company to recognize revenue to depict the transfer of goods or services to a customer at an amount that reflects the consideration it expects to receive in exchange for those goods or services. Entities have the option of using either a full retrospective or modified approach to adopt the guidance. In June 2015, the FASB deferred the effective date of the guidance by one year. This guidance is now effective for annual and interim reporting periods beginning after December 15, 2017, and early adoption is now permitted for annual and interim reporting periods beginning after December 15, 2016. We do not plan to early adopt this guidance; accordingly, the standard will be effective for us starting with our fiscal year beginning October 1, 2018. We are currently evaluating the adoption methods and the impact that the update will have on our results of operations, financial condition and financial statement disclosures.

Postemployment Benefits

Postemployment Benefits	12 Months Ended
	Sep. 30, 2015
Postemployment Benefits [Abstract]
Postemployment Benefits	Postemployment Benefits In October 2014, we completed a restructuring and provided postemployment benefits totaling approximately $1.2 million to approximately 50 impacted employees. Additionally, we periodically enter into agreements which provide postemployment benefits to personnel whose employment is terminated. The postemployment benefit liability, which is included in accounts payable and accrued expenses on the accompanying consolidated balance sheets, is generally paid out ratably over the terms of the agreements, which range from 1 month to 24 months , with the final agreement expiring in May 2016. The postemployment benefit accrual activity for the year ended September 30, 2015 was as follows: Liability Balance at Postemployment Cash Paid Other Liability Balance at Severance $ 2,150 $ 1,555 $ (2,902 ) $ (258 ) $ 545 Other 16 215 (150 ) (81 ) — Total $ 2,166 $ 1,770 $ (3,052 ) $ (339 ) $ 545 (1) Primarily relates to the expiration of benefits not used within the time offered under the separation agreement and non-cash severance.

Receivables, net

Receivables, net	12 Months Ended
	Sep. 30, 2015
Receivables [Abstract]
Receivables, net	Receivables, net Receivables, net consist of the following: September 30, 2015 2014 Tuition receivables $ 18,517 $ 12,662 Other receivables 5,712 3,250 Receivables 24,229 15,912 Less allowance for uncollectible accounts (1,820 ) (3,794 ) $ 22,409 $ 12,118 The allowance for uncollectible accounts is estimated using our historical write-off experience applied to the receivable balances for students who are no longer attending school due to graduation or withdrawal or who are in school and have receivable balances in excess of financial aid available to them. We write off receivable balances against the allowance for uncollectible accounts at the time we transfer the balance to a third party collection agency. The following table summarizes the activity for our allowance for uncollectible accounts for the year ended September 30: Balance at Additions to Write-offs of Balance at 2015 $ 3,794 $ 2,634 $ (4,608 ) $ 1,820 2014 $ 4,149 $ 3,972 $ (4,327 ) $ 3,794 2013 $ 4,108 $ 4,720 $ (4,679 ) $ 4,149 During the year ended September 30, 2015, we reversed, and recorded as a reduction to bad debt expense, approximately $1.0 million of bad debt expense recorded in 2011 and 2012 for processing issues related to student funds received from a non-Title IV federal funding agency. Based on communication with the agency, we determined it was no longer probable that we will be required to return such funds. This amount is presented within write-offs of uncollectible accounts in the table above.

Investments

Investments	12 Months Ended
	Sep. 30, 2015
Investments, Debt and Equity Securities [Abstract]
Investments	Investments We invest in pre-funded municipal bonds which are generally secured by escrowed-to-maturity U.S. Treasury notes. Municipal bonds represent debt obligations issued by states, cities, counties and other governmental entities, which earn interest that is exempt from federal income taxes. Additionally, we invest in certificates of deposit issued by financial institutions and corporate bonds from large cap industrial and selected financial companies with a minimum credit rating of A. We have the ability and intention to hold our investments until maturity and therefore classify these investments as held-to-maturity and report them at amortized cost. Amortized cost and fair value for investments classified as held-to-maturity at September 30, 2015 were as follows: Estimated Amortized Gross Unrealized Fair Market Cost Gains Losses Value Due in less than 1 year: Municipal bonds $ 13,117 $ 14 $ (1 ) $ 13,130 Corporate bonds 11,402 1 (10 ) 11,393 Certificates of deposit 3,567 — — 3,567 Due in 1 - 2 years: Municipal bonds 771 2 — 773 Corporate bonds 201 — — 201 Certificates of deposit 747 — — 747 $ 29,805 $ 17 $ (11 ) $ 29,811 Amortized cost and fair value for investments classified as held-to-maturity at September 30, 2014 were as follows: Estimated Amortized Gross Unrealized Fair Market Cost Gains Losses Value Due in less than 1 year: Municipal bonds $ 26,894 $ 20 $ — $ 26,914 Corporate bonds 16,836 1 (24 ) 16,813 Certificates of deposit 2,176 — — 2,176 Due in 1 - 2 years: Municipal bonds 4,230 7 — 4,237 Corporate bonds 4,054 — (13 ) 4,041 Certificates of deposit 2,973 — — 2,973 $ 57,163 $ 28 $ (37 ) $ 57,154 Investments are exposed to various risks, including interest rate, market and credit risk and as a result, it is possible that changes in the values of these investments may occur and that such changes could affect the amounts reported in the consolidated balance sheets and consolidated statements of income.

Fair Value Measurements

Fair Value Measurements	12 Months Ended
	Sep. 30, 2015
Fair Value Disclosures [Abstract]
Fair Value Measurements	Fair Value Measurements The accounting framework for determining fair value includes a hierarchy for ranking the quality and reliability of the information used to measure fair value, which enables the reader of the financial statements to assess the inputs used to develop those measurements. The fair value hierarchy consists of three tiers: Level 1, defined as quoted market prices in active markets for identical assets or liabilities; Level 2, defined as inputs other than Level 1 that are observable, either directly or indirectly, such as quoted prices for similar assets or liabilities, quoted prices in markets that are not active, model-based valuation techniques for which all significant assumptions are observable in the market or other inputs that are observable or can be corroborated by observable market data for substantially the full term of the assets or liabilities and Level 3, defined as unobservable inputs that are not corroborated by market data. Any transfers of investments between levels occurs at the end of the reporting period. Assets measured or disclosed at fair value on a recurring basis consisted of the following: Fair Value Measurements Using September 30, 2015 Quoted Prices Significant Significant Money market funds $ 24,369 $ 24,369 $ — $ — Corporate bonds 11,594 11,594 — — Municipal bonds 13,903 — 13,903 — Certificates of deposit 4,314 — 4,314 — Total assets at fair value on a recurring basis $ 54,180 $ 35,963 $ 18,217 $ — Fair Value Measurements Using September 30, 2014 Quoted Prices Significant Significant Money market funds $ 29,995 $ 29,995 $ — $ — Corporate bonds 20,854 20,854 — — Municipal bonds 31,151 — 31,151 — Certificates of deposit 5,149 — 5,149 — Total assets at fair value on a recurring basis $ 87,149 $ 50,849 $ 36,300 $ — Our Level 2 investments are valued using readily available pricing sources which utilize market observable inputs, including the current interest rate for similar types of instruments.

Property and Equipment, net

Property and Equipment, net	12 Months Ended
	Sep. 30, 2015
Property, Plant and Equipment [Abstract]
Property and Equipment, net	Property and Equipment, net Property and equipment, net consisted of the following: Depreciable September 30, September 30, Land — $ 3,189 $ 1,456 Building and building improvements 30-35 79,555 50,306 Leasehold improvements 1-28 39,326 38,906 Training equipment 3-10 87,795 85,673 Office and computer equipment 3-10 38,776 37,271 Curriculum development 5 18,716 18,716 Software developed for internal use 3-5 11,859 11,888 Vehicles 5 1,233 1,207 Construction in progress — 3,941 10,746 284,390 256,169 Less accumulated depreciation and amortization (160,246 ) (149,242 ) $ 124,144 $ 106,927 In March 2015, we purchased the majority of the buildings and land for our Houston, Texas campus. The purchase price of $9.4 million , excluding fees, was allocated between buildings ( $7.7 million ) and land ( $1.7 million ) based on the ratio of appraised values. At the time of purchase, we had leasehold improvements related to the purchased building recorded at $5.0 million in historical cost and $4.3 million of accumulated depreciation. The historical cost and accumulated depreciation for these assets were removed from the related classification and the net book value was recorded into building and building improvements. The buildings and building improvements will be depreciated over a useful life of 30 years. Additionally, we entered into amended lease agreements for the buildings and land we did not acquire at our Houston, Texas campus, which extended the lease terms through December 31, 2018 and amended the payment schedules. Depreciation expense related to our property and equipment was $16.5 million , $17.7 million and $18.4 million for the years ended September 30, 2015, 2014 and 2013, respectively. Amortization expense related to curriculum development and software developed for internal use was $3.6 million , $4.0 million and $4.8 million for the years ended September 30, 2015, 2014 and 2013, respectively. The following amounts, which are included in the above table, represent assets financed by financing obligations: September 30, September 30, Buildings and building improvements $ 45,816 $ 33,500 Construction in progress — 4,638 Assets financed by financing obligations, gross 45,816 38,138 Less accumulated depreciation and amortization (3,480 ) (1,551 ) Assets financed by financing obligation, net $ 42,336 $ 36,587 In 2014 we entered into amended lease agreements for certain buildings on our Orlando, Florida campus, which extended the lease terms to August 31, 2022 and modified the scheduled rental payments. Additionally, one of the amendments included a provision which allowed us to expand the square footage at one building by approximately 13,500 square feet. Construction occurred during June through October 2014. For accounting purposes, we were considered the owner during the construction period, and during that period, the existing building and the addition were considered one unit of account. Accordingly, as of September 30, 2014, we recorded the existing building and a corresponding short-term financing obligation of approximately $4.6 million on our consolidated balance sheet. The facility was placed into service effective November 1, 2014. We determined that we do not have continuing involvement after the construction period was complete, and that the lease will be accounted for as an operating lease. Accordingly, the asset and the corresponding short-term financing obligation were derecognized from our consolidated balance sheet.

Build-to-Suit Lease

Build-to-Suit Lease	12 Months Ended
	Sep. 30, 2015
Leases [Abstract]
Build-to-Suit Lease	Build-to-Suit Lease In October 2014, we entered into a 15 -year lease agreement for a build-to-suit facility related to the design and construction of a new campus in Long Beach, California. Construction was completed during August 2015 and the facility was placed into service effective September 1, 2015. Under the agreement, we retained substantially all of the construction risk. Therefore, for accounting purposes, we were considered the owner during the construction period and established assets and liabilities for the estimated construction costs incurred. Although we were the owner during the construction period, we do not own the underlying land. Therefore, we have an imputed operating lease expense related to our use of the land that will be recognized from the time we entered into the agreement through the initial lease term. We have determined that we have continued involvement in the facility after the construction period was completed, which precludes us from achieving sale-leaseback accounting. As such, we did not derecognize the facility or related construction liability upon occupancy and will continue to account for the arrangement as a financing obligation. Accordingly, the asset and a corresponding financing obligation are included in our consolidated balance sheet. The asset will be depreciated over the initial lease term of 15 years. The financing obligation is amortized through the effective interest method in which a portion of the lease payments will be recognized as interest expense, a portion will be allocated to the imputed land lease and the remaining portion will decrease the financing obligation. Additionally, we entered into a build-to-suit facility lease agreement and a construction management agreement related to the relocation of our Glendale Heights, Illinois campus to, and the design and construction of a new campus in, Lisle, Illinois. Construction was completed during November 2013 and the facility was placed into service effective December 1, 2013. The investment in the joint venture related to the lease of this facility represents continuing involvement after the construction period was completed. Therefore, we continue to account for the arrangement as a financing obligation and have an imputed operating lease related to our use of the land. Accordingly, the asset and a corresponding lease financing obligation are included in our consolidated balance sheet. The asset is depreciated over the initial lease term of 18 years. The financing obligation is amortized through the effective interest method in which a portion of the lease payments is recognized as interest expense, a portion is allocated to the imputed land lease and the remaining portion will decrease the financing obligation. Future minimum lease payments under the Lisle, Illinois and Long Beach, California leases as of September 30, 2015 are as follows: Years ending September 30, 2016 $ 4,284 2017 4,402 2018 4,522 2019 4,646 2020 4,772 Thereafter 59,903 Total future minimum lease obligation $ 82,529 Less imputed interest on financing obligation (37,045 ) Less imputed accrued land lease obligation (694 ) Net present value of financing obligation $ 44,790

Investment in Unconsolidated Af

Investment in Unconsolidated Affiliate (Notes)	12 Months Ended
	Sep. 30, 2015
Investment in Unconsolidated Affiliate [Abstract]
Equity Method Investments Disclosure [Text Block]	Investment in Unconsolidated Affiliate In 2012, we invested $4.0 million to acquire an equity interest of approximately 28% in a joint venture (JV) related to the lease of our Lisle, Illinois campus facility. In connection with this investment, we do not possess a controlling financial interest as we do not hold a majority of the equity interest, nor do we have the power to make major decisions without approval from the other equity member. Therefore, we do not qualify as the primary beneficiary. Accordingly, this investment is accounted for under the equity method of accounting and is included in other assets in our consolidated balance sheet. We recognize our proportionate share of the JV’s net income or loss during each accounting period as a change in our investment. Our equity in earnings was $0.5 million for each of the years ended September 30, 2015 and September 30, 2014. Investment in unconsolidated affiliate consists of the following: September 30, 2015 September 30, 2014 Carrying Value (In thousands) Ownership Percentage Carrying Value (In thousands) Ownership Percentage Investment in unconsolidated affiliate $ 3,986 27.972 % $ 3,903 27.972 % Investment in unconsolidated affiliate included the following activity during the period: Year ended September 30, 2015 2014 Balance at beginning of period $ 3,903 $ 4,000 Equity in earnings of unconsolidated affiliate 527 471 Return of capital contribution from unconsolidated affiliate (464 ) (568 ) Equity interest in investee's unrealized gains on hedging derivatives, net of taxes 20 — Balance at end of period $ 3,986 $ 3,903

Accounts Payable and Accrued Ex

Accounts Payable and Accrued Expenses	12 Months Ended
	Sep. 30, 2015
Payables and Accruals [Abstract]
Accounts Payable and Accrued Expenses	Accounts Payable and Accrued Expenses Accounts payable and accrued expenses consisted of the following: September 30, 2015 September 30, 2014 Accounts payable $ 14,498 $ 12,990 Accrued compensation and benefits 17,534 17,963 Other accrued expenses 10,588 7,874 $ 42,620 $ 38,827

Income Taxes

Income Taxes	12 Months Ended
	Sep. 30, 2015
Income Tax Disclosure [Abstract]
Income Taxes	Income Taxes The components of income tax expense are as follows: Year Ended September 30, 2015 2014 2013 Current expense United States federal $ 2,819 $ 6,425 $ 5,317 State 1,043 1,335 1,490 Total current expense (benefit) 3,862 7,760 6,807 Deferred (benefit) expense United States federal (5,109 ) (3,923 ) (3,500 ) State (285 ) (127 ) (294 ) Total deferred (benefit) expense (5,394 ) (4,050 ) (3,794 ) Total provision for income taxes $ (1,532 ) $ 3,710 $ 3,013 The income tax provision differs from the tax that would result from application of the statutory federal tax rate of 35.0% to pre-tax income for the year. The reasons for the differences are as follows: Year Ended September 30, 2015 2014 2013 Income tax expense at statutory rate $ (3,738 ) $ 2,012 $ 2,419 State income taxes, net of federal tax benefit 393 697 504 Deferred tax asset write-off related to share based 1,572 828 — Other, net 241 173 90 Total income tax expense $ (1,532 ) $ 3,710 $ 3,013 Beginning in December 2013, certain stock-based compensation awards granted to employees expired, which required a write-off of the related deferred tax asset through income tax expense as our pro forma windfall pool of available excess tax benefits was no longer sufficient to absorb the shortfall. The components of the deferred tax assets (liabilities) recorded in the accompanying consolidated balance sheets were as follows: September 30, 2015 2014 Gross deferred tax assets: Deferred compensation $ 1,784 $ 1,846 Reserves and accruals 5,395 8,847 Accrued tool sets 1,460 1,548 Deferred revenue 19,606 16,318 Deferred rent liability 1,939 2,539 Net operating loss carryovers 83 175 State tax credit carryforwards 310 319 Valuation allowance (401 ) (273 ) Total gross deferred tax assets 30,176 31,319 Gross deferred tax liabilities: Amortization of goodwill and intangibles (3,140 ) (8,026 ) Depreciation and amortization of property and equipment (421 ) (2,536 ) Prepaid and other expenses deductible for tax (1,828 ) (1,364 ) Total deferred tax liabilities, net (5,389 ) (11,926 ) Net deferred tax assets $ 24,787 $ 19,393 The following table summarizes the activity for the valuation allowance for the year ended September 30: Balance at Beginning of Period Additions (Reductions) to Income Tax Expense Write-offs Balance at End of Period 2015 $ 273 $ 128 $ — $ 401 2014 $ 224 $ 49 $ — $ 273 2013 $ 80 $ 144 $ — $ 224 As of September 30, 2015 , we had approximately $0.4 million in deferred tax assets related to state net operating loss and credit carryforwards. These attributes will expire in the years 2016 through 2031. We have established a valuation allowance in the amount of $0.4 million , primarily related to state net operating losses and tax credit carryforwards, as it is more likely than not that these tax attributes will not be utilized. We file income tax returns for federal purposes and in many states. Our tax filings remain subject to examination by applicable tax authorities for a certain length of time, generally three to four years, following the tax year to which these filings relate.

Commitments and Contingencies

Commitments and Contingencies	12 Months Ended
	Sep. 30, 2015
Commitments and Contingencies Disclosure [Abstract]
Commitments and Contingencies	Commitments and Contingencies Operating Leases We lease our facilities and certain equipment under non-cancelable operating leases, some of which contain renewal options, escalation clauses and requirements to pay other fees associated with the leases. We recognize rent expense on a straight-line basis. Property at one of our campus locations is leased from a related party. Future minimum rental commitments as of September 30, 2015 for all non-cancelable operating leases are as follows: Years ending September 30, Gross Sublease income Net 2016 $ 27,901 (321 ) $ 27,580 2017 27,457 (325 ) 27,132 2018 27,347 (328 ) 27,019 2019 26,917 (332 ) 26,585 2020 22,482 (157 ) 22,325 Thereafter 46,272 — 46,272 $ 178,376 $ (1,463 ) $ 176,913 Rent expense for operating leases was approximately $28.0 million , $27.9 million and $28.9 million for the years ended September 30, 2015, 2014 and 2013, respectively. Rent expense includes rent paid to related parties, which was approximately $2.1 million , $2.3 million and $2.5 million for the years ended September 30, 2015, 2014 and 2013, respectively. Since 1991, certain of our properties have been leased from entities controlled by John C. White, an independent Director on our Board of Directors. A portion of the property comprising our Orlando, Florida location is occupied pursuant to a lease with the John C. and Cynthia L. White 1989 Family Trust, with the lease term expiring on August 19, 2022. The annual base lease payments for the first year under this lease totaled approximately $0.3 million , with annual adjustments based on the higher of (i) an amount equal to 4% of the total annual rent for the immediately preceding year or (ii) the percentage of increase in the Consumer Price Index. Another portion of the property comprising our Orlando, Florida location is occupied pursuant to a lease with Delegates LLC, an entity controlled by the White Family Trust, with the lease term expiring on July 1, 2016. The beneficiaries of this trust are Mr. White’s children, and the trustee of the trust is not related to Mr. White. Annual base lease payments for the first year under this lease totaled approximately $0.7 million , with annual adjustments based on the higher of (i) an amount equal to 4% of the total annual rent for the immediately preceding year or (ii) the percentage of increase in the Consumer Price Index. Licensing Agreements In 1999, we entered into a licensing agreement that gives us the right to use certain materials and trademarks in the development of our courses. The agreement was amended in November 2009. Under the terms of the amended agreement, we are required to pay a flat fee per student for each program a student completes. There are no minimum license fees required to be paid. The agreement terminates upon the written notice of either party providing not less than ninety days notification of intent to terminate. License fees related to this agreement were $1.1 million , $1.0 million and $1.1 million for the years ended September 30, 2015, 2014 and 2013, respectively, and were recorded in educational services and facilities expenses. In May 2007, we entered into a licensing agreement that gives us the right to use certain trademarks, trade names, trade dress and other intellectual property in connection with the operation of our campuses and courses. The agreement was amended January 2015 and expires December 31, 2024. We are committed to pay royalties based upon minimum amounts specified in the agreement, throughout the term. The agreement required a minimum royalty payment of $1.9 million in calendar year 2015. The minimum royalty payments decrease to $1.6 million for calendar year 2016 and increase approximately $0.05 million every other calendar year thereafter. The expense related to these agreements was $1.9 million , $1.8 million and $1.7 million for the years ended September 30, 2015, 2014 and 2013, respectively, and was recorded in educational services and facilities expenses. In July 2013, we entered into a training and materials agreement that gives us the right to use certain materials and trademarks in development of our courses. Under the terms of the agreement, we are required to pay a flat fee per student for each related program a student completes. There is an immaterial minimum annual fee required to be paid upon commencement of the program and annually thereafter. The agreement terminates upon the written notice of either party providing not less than 90 days notification of intent to terminate. The expense related to this agreement was less than $0.1 million for each of the years ended September 30, 2015 and 2014 and was recorded in educational services and facilities expenses. In April 2015, we entered into a licensing agreement that gives us the right to use certain trademarks in connection with the operation of our campuses and courses. The agreement has an initial term of four years, with options for three annual renewals totaling a seven year term. The maximum license fee over seven years is $2.3 million . The expense related to this agreement was $0.2 million for the year ended September 30, 2015, and was recorded in educational services and facilities expenses. Vendor Relationships We have an agreement with a vendor that allows us to purchase promotional tool kits for our students at a discount from the vendor’s list price. In addition, we earn credits that are redeemable for equipment from the vendor that we use in our business. Credits are earned on our purchases as well as purchases made by students enrolled in our programs. We have agreed to grant the vendor exclusive access to our campuses, to display advertising and to use their tools to train our students. Under the related agreement, which expires in April 2017, we are required to maintain a minimum balance of $1.0 million in credits earned on student purchases. The credits under this agreement may be redeemed in multiple ways, which historically has been for additional equipment at the full retail list price, which is more than we would be required to pay using cash. Upon termination of the agreement, we continue to earn credits relative to promotional tool kits we purchase or additional tools our active students purchase. We continue to earn these credits until a tool kit is provided to the last student eligible under the agreement. A net prepaid expense with the vendor resulted from an excess of credits earned over credits used of $6.4 million and $6.2 million as of September 30, 2015 and 2014, respectively. Students are provided a voucher which can be redeemed for a tool kit near graduation. The cost of the tool kits, net of the credit, is accrued during the time period in which the students begin attending school until they have progressed to the point that the promotional tool kit vouchers are provided. Our consolidated balance sheets include an accrued tool set liability of $3.6 million and $3.8 million as of September 30, 2015 and 2014, respectively. Additionally, our liability to the vendor for vouchers redeemed by students was $1.2 million and $1.2 million as of September 30, 2015 and 2014, respectively, and is included in accounts payable and accrued expenses in our consolidated balance sheets. Executive Employment Agreements We have employment agreements with key executives that provide for continued salary payments and benefits if the executives are terminated for reasons other than cause or in the event of a change in control, as defined in the agreements. The range of the aggregate commitment upon termination of employment under these agreements and existing equity award agreements as of September 30, 2015 is approximately $2.4 million to $6.3 million . Change in Control Agreements We have severance agreements with other executives that provide for continued salary payments if the employees are terminated for any reason within twelve months subsequent to a change in control. Under the terms of the agreements, these employees are entitled to between six and twelve months salary at their highest rate during the previous twelve months. In addition, the employees are eligible to receive the unearned portion of their target bonus in effect in the year termination occurs and would be eligible to receive medical benefits under the plans maintained by us at no cost. The aggregate amount of our commitments under these agreements as of September 30, 2015 is approximately $9.7 million . Deferred Compensation Plans We have established a deferred compensation plan (the Plan) effective April 1, 2010, into which certain members of management are eligible to defer a maximum of 75% of their regular compensation and a maximum of 100% of their incentive compensation. Non-employee members of our Board of Directors are eligible to defer up to 100% of their cash compensation. The amounts deferred by the participant under this Plan are credited with earnings or losses based upon changes in values of participant elected notional investments. Each participant is fully vested in the amounts deferred. We may make contributions at the discretion of our Board of Directors that will generally vest according to a five year vesting schedule. Distribution elections under the Plan may be for separation from service distribution or in-service distribution. We are not obligated to fund the Plan; however, we have purchased life insurance policies on the participants in order to fund the related benefits and such policies have been placed into a rabbi trust. Our obligations under the Plan totaled $4.5 million and $4.6 million as of September 30, 2015 and 2014, respectively, and are included in other liabilities while the cash surrender value of the life insurance policies totaled $5.0 million and $4.7 million as of September 30, 2015 and 2014, respectively, and are included in other assets in our consolidated balance sheets. Surety Bonds Each of our campuses must be authorized by the applicable state education agency in which the campus is located to operate and to grant degrees, diplomas or certificates to its students. Our campuses are subject to extensive, ongoing regulation by each of these states. Additionally, our campuses are required to be authorized by the applicable state education agencies of certain other states in which our campuses recruit students. Our insurers issue surety bonds for us on behalf of our campuses and admissions representatives with multiple states to maintain authorization to conduct our business. We are obligated to reimburse our insurers for any surety bonds that are paid by the insurers. As of September 30, 2015, the total face amount of these surety bonds was approximately $19.0 million . Legal In the ordinary conduct of our business, we are periodically subject to lawsuits, demands in arbitration, investigations, regulatory proceedings or other claims, including, but not limited to, claims involving current or former students, routine employment matters, business disputes and regulatory demands. When we are aware of a claim or potential claim, we assess the likelihood of any loss or exposure. If it is probable that a loss will result and the amount of the loss can be reasonably estimated, we would accrue a liability for the loss. When a loss is not both probable and estimable, we do not accrue a liability. Where a loss is not probable but is reasonably possible, including if a loss in excess of an accrued liability is reasonably possible, we determine whether it is possible to provide an estimate of the amount of the loss or range of possible losses for the claim. Because we cannot predict with certainty the ultimate resolution of the legal proceedings (including lawsuits, investigations, regulatory proceedings or claims) asserted against us, it is not currently possible to provide such an estimate. The ultimate outcome of pending legal proceedings to which we are a party may have a material adverse effect on our business, cash flows, results of operations or financial condition. In September 2012, we received a Civil Investigative Demand (CID) from the Attorney General of the Commonwealth of Massachusetts related to a pending investigation in connection with allegations that we caused false claims to be submitted to the Commonwealth relating to student loans, guarantees and grants provided to students at our Norwood, Massachusetts campus. The CID required us to produce documents and provide written testimony regarding a broad range of our business from September 2006 to the September 2012. We responded timely to the request. The Attorney General made a follow-up request for documents, and we complied with this request in February 2013. In response to a status update request from us, the Attorney General has requested and we have provided additional documents and information related to graduate employment at our Norwood, Massachusetts campus and our policies and practices for determining graduate employment. At this time, we cannot predict the eventual scope, duration, outcome or associated costs of this request and accordingly we have not recorded any liability in the accompanying consolidated financial statements. On July 17, 2015, we received a subpoena from the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Western District of North Carolina (U.S. Attorney's Office) issued pursuant to the Financial Institutions Reform, Recovery and Enforcement Act of 1989. The subpoena covers a broad range of matters relating to our Mooresville, North Carolina campus operations over the past several years. It also seeks documents and information relating to our compliance with the “90/10 rule,” and other programs and practices. We are cooperating with the U.S. Attorney’s Office. At this time, we cannot predict the eventual scope, duration, outcome or associated costs or operational impact of this inquiry, and accordingly we have not recorded any liability in the accompanying consolidated financial statements. In November 2015, one of our software vendors notified us of potential additional license and maintenance fees for the use of its software. The terms of the business arrangement are in dispute. However, it is reasonably possible we could incur a loss up to $1.4 million related to this matter. We are in ongoing discussion with the vendor. At this time, we cannot predict the eventual outcome, associated costs or operational impact of this matter, and accordingly we have not recorded any liability in the accompanying consolidated financial statements.

Common Shareholders' Equity

Common Shareholders' Equity	12 Months Ended
	Sep. 30, 2015
Equity [Abstract]
Common Shareholders’ Equity	Common Shareholders’ Equity Common Stock Holders of our common stock are entitled to receive dividends when and as declared by our Board of Directors and have the right to one vote per share on all matters requiring shareholder approval. On December 19, 2014; March 31, 2015 and June 30, 2015, we paid cash dividends of $0.10 per share to common stockholders of record as of December 8, 2014; March 20, 2015 and June 19, 2015, respectively. The aggregate payment was approximately $7.3 million . On September 16, 2015, we declared a cash dividend of $0.02 per share to common stockholders of record as of September 28, 2015, payable on October 5, 2015. Share Repurchase Program On December 20, 2011, our Board of Directors authorized the repurchase of up to $25.0 million of our common stock in the open market or through privately negotiated transactions. The timing and actual number of shares purchased will depend on a variety of factors such as price, corporate and regulatory requirements and prevailing market conditions. We may terminate or limit the share repurchase program at any time without prior notice. During the year ended September 30, 2015 , we purchased 852,318 shares at an average price per share of $7.73 and a total cost of approximately $6.6 million . As of September 30, 2015 , we have purchased 1,677,570 shares at an average price per share of $9.09 and a total cost of approximately $15.3 million under this program. Stock Option and Incentive Compensation Plans We have two stock-based compensation plans; the Management 2002 Stock Option Program (2002 Plan) and the 2003 Incentive Compensation Plan (2003 Plan). The 2002 Plan was approved by our Board of Directors on April 1, 2002 and provided for the issuance of options to purchase 0.7 million shares of our common stock. On February 25, 2003, our Board of Directors authorized an additional 0.1 million options to purchase our common stock under the 2002 Plan. Options issued under the 2002 Plan vest ratably each year over a four -year period. The expiration date of options granted under the 2002 Plan is the earlier of the ten -year anniversary of the grant date; the one -year anniversary of the termination of the participant’s employment by reason of death or disability; 30 days after the date of the participant’s termination of employment if caused by reasons other than death, disability, cause, material breach or unsatisfactory performance or on the termination date if termination occurs for reasons of cause, material breach or unsatisfactory performance. We do not intend to grant any additional options under the 2002 Plan. The 2003 Plan was approved by our Board of Directors and adopted effective December 22, 2003 upon consummation of our initial public offering and amended on February 28, 2007 and February 22, 2012 by our stockholders. The 2003 Plan, as amended, authorizes the issuance of various common stock awards, including stock options, restricted stock and stock units, for approximately 5.3 million shares of our common stock. As of September 30, 2015 , 2.7 million shares of common stock were reserved for issuance under the 2003 Plan, of which 1.5 million shares are available for future grant. We use historical data to estimate forfeitures. Our estimated forfeitures are adjusted as actual forfeitures differ from our estimates, resulting in stock-based compensation expense only for those awards that actually vest. If factors change and different assumptions are employed in future periods, previously recognized stock-based compensation expense may require adjustment. The following table summarizes the operating expense line and the impact on net income in the consolidated statements of income in which stock-based compensation expense has been recorded: Year Ended September 30, 2015 2014 2013 Educational services and facilities $ 294 $ 587 $ 617 Selling, general and administrative 3,971 5,134 5,607 Total stock-based compensation expense $ 4,265 $ 5,721 $ 6,224 Income tax benefit $ 1,629 $ 2,288 $ 2,427 Restricted Stock Awards Our restricted stock awards are issued at fair market value, which is based on the closing prices of our stock on the grant date, discounted for non-participation in anticipated dividends during the vesting period. The restrictions on these awards generally lapse ratably over a four or five year period based on the terms of the individual grant. The restrictions associated with our restricted stock awarded under the 2003 Plan will lapse upon the death, disability, or if, within one year following a change of control, employment is terminated without cause or for good reason. If employment is terminated for any other reason, all shares of restricted stock shall be forfeited upon termination. The following table summarizes restricted stock activity under the 2003 Plan: Number of Shares (In thousands) Weighted Average Grant Date Fair Value per Share Nonvested restricted stock outstanding as of September 30, 2014 401 $ 12.99 Restricted stock vested (146 ) $ 13.20 Restricted stock forfeited (37 ) $ 13.03 Nonvested restricted stock outstanding as of September 30, 2015 218 $ 12.85 As of September 30, 2015, unrecognized stock compensation expense related to restricted stock awards was $2.7 million which is expected to be recognized over a weighted average period of 1.7 years . For the year ended September 30, 2013, the weighted average grant date fair value per share of restricted stock awards granted was $10.78 . The assumed quarterly dividend rate was $0.10 per share. There were no restricted stock awards granted during the years ended September 30, 2015 and 2014. Restricted Stock Units Our restricted stock units are issued at fair market value, which is based on the closing prices of our stock on the grant date, discounted for non-participation in anticipated dividends during the vesting period. The restrictions on these units generally lapse ratably over a four or five year period based on the terms of the individual grant. The restrictions associated with our restricted stock units awarded under the 2003 Plan will lapse upon the death, disability, or if, within one year following a change of control, employment is terminated without cause or for good reason. If employment is terminated for any other reason, all shares of restricted stock shall be forfeited upon termination. The awards to our Chief Executive Officer and Chairman of the Board and to our President and Chief Financial Officer were made pursuant to updated forms of award agreements that implement certain retirement vesting provisions of such executives' April 2014 employment agreements. The updated award agreements include a provision for continued vesting for 12 months after a qualifying retirement, as defined by these executives' respective employment agreements and subject to compliance with certain covenants. The following table summarizes restricted stock unit activity under the 2003 Plan: Number of Shares Weighted Average Nonvested restricted stock units outstanding as of September 30, 2014 673 $ 9.76 Restricted stock units awarded 568 $ 4.49 Restricted stock units vested (188 ) $ 9.75 Restricted stock units forfeited (58 ) $ 9.72 Nonvested restricted stock units outstanding as of September 30, 2015 995 $ 6.76 As of September 30, 2015, unrecognized stock compensation expense related to restricted stock awards was $6.2 million which is expected to be recognized over a weighted average period of 2.1 years . The following table summarizes the weighted average fair values of the restricted stock units granted: Year Ended September 30, 2015 2014 2013 Weighted average grant date fair value per share $ 4.49 $ 10.05 $ 9.60 The assumed quarterly dividend rate was $0.10 per share for restricted stock units granted during the years ended September 30, 2014 and 2013 and during the first nine months of the year ended September 30, 2015. The assumed quarterly dividend rate was $0.02 per share for restricted stock units granted during the three months ended September 30, 2015.

Earnings per Share

Earnings per Share	12 Months Ended
	Sep. 30, 2015
Earnings Per Share [Abstract]
Earnings per Share	Earnings per Share Basic net income per share is calculated by dividing net income by the weighted average number of shares outstanding for the period. Diluted net income per share reflects the assumed conversion of all dilutive securities, if any. For the years ended September 30, 2014 and 2013 , approximately 0.9 million shares and 1.6 million shares, respectively, which could be issued under outstanding stock-based grants, were not included in the determination of our diluted shares outstanding as they were anti-dilutive. For the year ended September 30, 2015, diluted loss per share equaled basic loss per share as the assumed activity related to outstanding stock-based grants would have an anti-dilutive effect. The calculation of the weighted average number of shares outstanding used in computing basic and diluted net income per share was as follows: Year Ended September 30, 2015 2014 2013 Weighted average number of shares (In thousands) Basic shares outstanding 24,391 24,640 24,515 Dilutive effect related to employee stock plans — 280 189 Diluted shares outstanding 24,391 24,920 24,704

Defined Contribution Employee B

Defined Contribution Employee Benefit Plan	12 Months Ended
	Sep. 30, 2015
Compensation and Retirement Disclosure [Abstract]
Defined Contribution Employee Benefit Plan	Defined Contribution Employee Benefit Plan We sponsor a defined contribution 401(k) plan, under which our employees elect to withhold specified amounts from their wages to contribute to the plan and we have a fiduciary responsibility with respect to the plan. The plan provides for matching a portion of employees’ contributions at management’s discretion. All contributions and matches by us are invested at the direction of the employee in one or more mutual funds or cash. We made matching contributions of approximately $0.2 million , $1.1 million and $1.2 million for the years ended September 30, 2015 , 2014 and 2013 , respectively.

Segment Information

Segment Information	12 Months Ended
	Sep. 30, 2015
Segment Reporting [Abstract]
Segment Information	Segment Information Our principal business is providing postsecondary education. We also provide manufacturer-specific training and these operations are managed separately from our campus operations. These operations do not currently meet the quantitative criteria for segments and therefore are reflected in the Other category. Corporate expenses are allocated to Postsecondary education and the Other category based on compensation expense. Depreciation and amortization includes amortization of assets subject to financing obligation. Summary information by reportable segment is as follows: Year Ended September 30, 2015 2014 2013 Revenues Postsecondary education $ 350,682 $ 367,630 $ 371,717 Other 11,992 10,763 8,605 Consolidated $ 362,674 $ 378,393 $ 380,322 Income (loss) from operations Postsecondary education $ (5,911 ) $ 9,045 $ 8,455 Other (3,312 ) (2,708 ) (2,430 ) Consolidated $ (9,223 ) $ 6,337 $ 6,025 Depreciation and amortization (1) Postsecondary education $ 18,888 $ 20,121 $ 21,796 Other 267 353 360 Consolidated $ 19,155 $ 20,474 $ 22,156 Net income (loss) Postsecondary education $ (7,477 ) $ 3,272 $ 5,293 Other (1,672 ) (1,235 ) (1,392 ) Consolidated $ (9,149 ) $ 2,037 $ 3,901 As of September 30, 2015 2014 2013 Goodwill Postsecondary education $ 8,222 $ 20,579 $ 20,579 Other — — — Consolidated $ 8,222 $ 20,579 $ 20,579 Total assets Postsecondary education $ 266,922 $ 282,529 $ 272,909 Other 7,380 5,540 7,285 Consolidated $ 274,302 $ 288,069 $ 280,194 (1) Excludes depreciation of training equipment obtained in exchange for services of $ 1.2 million , $ 1.2 million and $ 1.1 million for the years ended September 30, 2015, 2014 and 2013, respectively.

Government Regulation and Finan

Government Regulation and Financial Aid	12 Months Ended
	Sep. 30, 2015
Risks and Uncertainties [Abstract]
Government Regulation and Financial Aid	Government Regulation and Financial Aid Our institutions are subject to extensive regulation by federal and state governmental agencies and accrediting bodies. In particular, HEA, and the regulations promulgated thereunder by ED, subject the institutions to significant regulatory scrutiny on the basis of numerous standards that schools must satisfy in order to participate in the various federal student financial assistance programs under Title IV of the HEA. To participate in the Title IV Programs, an institution must be authorized to offer its programs of instruction by relevant state education agencies, be accredited by an accrediting commission recognized by ED and be certified as an eligible institution by ED. ED will certify an institution to participate in the Title IV Programs only after the institution has demonstrated compliance with the HEA and ED’s extensive regulations regarding institutional eligibility. An institution must also demonstrate its compliance to ED on an ongoing basis. The Program Participation Agreement (PPA) document serves as ED’s formal authorization of an institution and its associated additional locations to participate in Title IV Programs for a specified period of time. Universal Technical Institute of Arizona and Universal Technical Institute of Phoenix were recertified in October 2010 and entered into new PPAs with ED which will expire on June 30, 2016. Universal Technical Institute of Texas was recertified in February 2012 and entered into a new PPA with ED which will expire March 31, 2018. State Authorization Each of our institutions must be authorized by the applicable state education agency where the institution is located to operate and offer a postsecondary education program to its students. Our institutions are subject to extensive, ongoing regulation by each of these states. Additionally, our institutions are required to be authorized by the applicable state education agencies of certain other states in which our institutions recruit students. If any one of our campuses were to lose its authorization from the education agency of the state in which the campus is located, that campus would be unable to offer its programs and we could be forced to close that campus. If one of our campuses were to lose its authorization from a state other than the state in which the campus is located, that campus would not be able to recruit students in that state. Accreditation Accreditation is a non-governmental process through which an institution voluntarily submits to ongoing qualitative reviews by an organization of peer institutions. Accrediting commissions primarily examine the academic quality of the institution’s instructional programs. A grant of accreditation is generally viewed as confirmation that the institution’s programs meet generally accepted academic standards. Accrediting commissions also review the administrative and financial operations of the institutions they accredit to ensure that each institution has the resources necessary to perform its educational mission. Accreditation by an ED recognized commission is required for an institution to be certified to participate in Title IV Programs. In order to be recognized by ED, accrediting commissions must adopt specific standards for their review of educational institutions. All of our institutions are accredited by the Accrediting Commission of Career Schools and Colleges, an accrediting commission recognized by ED. An accrediting commission may place an institution on reporting status to monitor one or more specified areas of performance in relation to the accreditation standards. An institution placed on reporting status is required to report periodically to the accrediting commission on that institution’s performance in the area or areas specified by the commission. Regulation of Federal Student Financial Aid Programs Congress continues to be focused on for-profit education institutions, specifically regarding participation in Title IV Programs and U.S. Department of Defense oversight of tuition assistance for military service members attending for-profit colleges. This Congressional activity could result in the enactment of more stringent legislation by Congress, further rulemakings affecting participation in Title IV Programs and other governmental actions, increasing regulation of the for-profit sector. Action by Congress may also increase our administrative costs and require us to modify our practices in order for our institutions to comply with Title IV Program requirements. In addition, concerns generated by this Congressional activity may adversely affect enrollment in for-profit educational institutions such as ours. Political and budgetary concerns significantly affect Title IV Programs. Congress has historically reauthorized the HEA approximately every five to six years with the last reauthorization in 2008; a new reauthorization process has begun. Significant factors relating to Title IV Programs that could adversely affect us include the following: 90/10 Rule A for-profit institution loses its eligibility to participate in Title IV Programs if it derives more than 90% of its revenue from Title IV Programs for two consecutive fiscal years as calculated under a cash basis formula mandated by ED. The loss of such eligibility would begin on the first day following the conclusion of the second consecutive year in which the institution exceeded the 90% limit and, as such, any Title IV Program funds already received by the institution and its students during a period of ineligibility would have to be returned to ED or a lender. Additionally, if an institution exceeds the 90% level for a single year, ED will place the institution on provisional certification for a period of at least two years. For the year ended September 30, 2015, approximately 73% of our revenues, on a cash basis, were derived from funds distributed under Title IV Programs, as calculated under the 90/10 rule. Federal Student Loan Defaults To remain eligible to participate in Title IV Programs, institutions must maintain federal student loan cohort default rates below specified levels. An institution whose cohort default rate is 30% or more for three consecutive federal fiscal years (FFYs) or 40% or more for any given FFY loses eligibility to participate in some or all Title IV Programs. This sanction is effective for the remainder of the FFY in which the institution lost its eligibility and for the two subsequent FFYs. None of our institutions had a three-year FFEL/DL cohort default rate of 30% or greater for 2012, 2011 or 2010, the three most recent FFYs with published rates. Financial Responsibility Standards ED assigns a strength factor to the results of each of these ratios on a scale from negative 1.0 to positive 3.0, with negative 1.0 reflecting financial weakness and positive 3.0 reflecting financial strength. ED then assigns a weighting percentage to each ratio and adds the weighted scores for the three ratios together to produce a composite score for the institution. The composite score must be at least 1.5 for the institution to be deemed financially responsible without the need for further oversight. In addition to having an acceptable composite score, an institution must, among other things, meet all of its financial obligations including required refunds to students and any Title IV Program liabilities and debts, be current in its debt payments, and not receive an adverse, qualified, or disclaimed opinion by its accountants in its audited financial statements. If ED determines that an institution does not satisfy its financial responsibility standards, depending on the resulting composite score and other factors, that institution may establish its financial responsibility on an alternative basis. If an institution's composite score is below 1.5, but is at least 1.0, the institution is in a category classified by ED as the zone. Under ED regulations, institutions in the zone solely because their composite score is less than 1.5 are still considered to be financially responsible, but require additional oversight by ED in the form of cash monitoring and other participation requirements. Institutions in the zone typically are permitted by ED to continue to participate in the title IV programs under one of two alternatives: 1) the “Zone Alternative” under which an institution is required to make disbursements to students under the Heightened Cash Monitoring 1 (HCM1) payment method and to notify ED within 10 days after the occurrence of certain oversight and financial events or 2) submit a letter of credit to ED equal to at least 50 percent of the Title IV funds received by the institutions during the most recent fiscal year. ED permits an institution to participate under the “Zone Alternative” for a period of up to three consecutive fiscal years. Under the HCM1 payment method, the institution is required to make Title IV disbursements to eligible students and parents before it requests or receives funds for the amount of those disbursements from ED. As long as the student accounts are credited before the funding requests are initiated, an institution is permitted to draw down funds through ED’s electronic system for grants management and payments for the amount of disbursements made to eligible students. Unlike the Heightened Cash Monitoring 2 (HCM2) or reimbursement payment methods, the HCM1 payment method typically does not require schools to submit documentation to ED and wait for ED approval before drawing down Title IV funds. Under new regulations published on October 30, 2015 with an effective date of July 1, 2016, a school on the HCM1, HCM2, or reimbursement payment methods must pay any credit balances due to a student or parent before drawing down funds from ED for the amount of disbursements made to the student or parent. If an institution's composite score is below 1.0, the institution is considered by ED to lack financial responsibility. If ED determines that an institution does not satisfy ED's financial responsibility standards, depending on its composite score and other factors, that institution may establish its financial responsibility on an alternative basis by, among other things: • posting a letter of credit in an amount equal to at least 50% of the total Title IV Program funds received by the institution during its most recently completed fiscal year, or • posting a letter of credit in an amount equal to at least 10% of such prior year's Title IV Program funds, accepting provisional certification, complying with additional ED monitoring requirements and agreeing to receive Title IV Program funds under an arrangement other than ED's standard advance funding arrangement. If an institution is unable to establish financial responsibility on an alternative basis, the institution will be required to comply with additional ED monitoring requirements and receive Title IV Program funds under the HCM2 or reimbursement payment methods. ED has historically evaluated the financial condition of our institutions on a consolidated basis based on the financial statements of Universal Technical Institute, Inc. as the parent company. ED’s regulations permit ED to examine the financial statements of Universal Technical Institute, Inc., the financial statements of each institution and the financial statements of any related party. For the 2015 fiscal year, we have calculated our composite score to be 1.4 and therefore anticipate that we will be subject to the “Zone Alternative” option described above. However, the composite score calculation and resulting requirements imposed on our institutions are subject to determination by ED once it receives and reviews our audited financial statements. If ED imposes its typical requirement to disburse Title IV funds under the HCM1 payment method, we believe that our current procedures for processing Title IV payments are similar to those currently required under the HCM1 payment method. Return of Title IV Funds An institution participating in Title IV Programs must calculate the amount of unearned Title IV Program funds that have been disbursed to students who withdraw from their educational programs before completing them. The institution must return those unearned funds to ED or the appropriate lending institution in a timely manner, which is generally within 45 days from the date the institution determines that the student has withdrawn. If an institution is cited in an audit or program review for returning Title IV Program funds late for 5% or more of the students in the audit or program review sample, the institution must post a letter of credit in favor of ED in an amount equal to 25% of the total Title IV Program funds that should have been returned in the previous fiscal year. Because we operate in a highly regulated industry, we, like other industry participants, may be subject from time to time to investigations, claims of non-compliance, or lawsuits by governmental agencies or third parties, which allege statutory violations, regulatory infractions, or common law causes of action. There can be no assurance that other regulatory agencies or third parties will not undertake investigations or make claims against us, or that such claims, if made, will not have a material adverse effect on our business, cash flows, results of operations or financial condition. Veterans' Benefits Programs Since October 1, 2011, the Post-9/11 GI Bill has been effective for both degree and non-degree granting institutions of higher learning, allowing eligible veterans to use their Post-9/11 GI Bill benefits at all of our institutions. Additionally, veterans use benefits such as the Montgomery GI Bill, the REAP and VA Vocational Rehabilitation at our campuses. We derived approximately 20% of our revenues, on a cash basis, from veterans' benefits programs in 2015. To participate in veterans' benefits programs, including the Post-9/11 GI Bill, the Montgomery GI Bill, the REAP, and VA Vocational Rehabilitation, an institution must comply with certain requirements established by the VA. These criteria require, among other things, that the institution: • report on the enrollment status of eligible students; • maintain student records and make such records available for inspection; • follow current VA rules; and • comply with applicable limits on the percentage of students receiving certain veterans benefits on a program or campus basis. The VA shares responsibility for VA benefit approval and oversight with designated State Approving Agencies (SAAs). SAAs play a critical role in evaluating institutions and their programs to determine if they meet VA benefit eligibility requirements. Processes and approval criteria as well as interpretation of applicable requirements can vary from state to state. Therefore, approval in one state does not necessarily result in approval in all states. During 2012, President Obama signed an Executive Order directing the Departments of Defense, Veterans Affairs and Education to establish “Principles of Excellence” (Principles), based on certain guidelines set forth in the Executive Order, to apply to educational institutions receiving federal funding for service members, veterans and family members. We are required to comply with the Principles to continue recruitment activities on military installations. Additionally, there is a requirement to possess a memorandum of understanding (MOU) with the U.S. Department of Defense as well as with certain individual installations.

Quarterly Financial Summary (Un

Quarterly Financial Summary (Unaudited)	12 Months Ended
	Sep. 30, 2015
Quarterly Financial Information Disclosure [Abstract]
Quarterly Financial Summary (Unaudited)	Quarterly Financial Summary (Unaudited) Year ended September 30, 2015 First Second Third Fourth (1) Fiscal Revenues $ 95,680 $ 91,235 $ 85,106 $ 90,653 $ 362,674 Income (loss) from operations $ 5,600 $ 2,402 $ (3,996 ) $ (13,229 ) $ (9,223 ) Net income (loss) $ 3,094 $ 555 $ (2,975 ) $ (9,823 ) $ (9,149 ) Income (loss) per share: Basic $ 0.12 $ 0.02 $ (0.12 ) $ (0.41 ) $ (0.38 ) Diluted $ 0.12 $ 0.02 $ (0.12 ) $ (0.41 ) $ (0.38 ) (1) The quarter ended September 30, 2015 included goodwill impairment of $12.4 million . Year ended September 30, 2014 First Second Third Fourth Fiscal Revenues $ 97,040 $ 94,711 $ 91,329 $ 95,313 $ 378,393 Income (loss) from operations $ 3,058 $ (1,612 ) $ 1,011 $ 3,880 $ 6,337 Net income (loss) $ 1,707 $ (1,620 ) $ 366 $ 1,584 $ 2,037 Income (loss) per share: Basic $ 0.07 $ (0.07 ) $ 0.01 $ 0.06 $ 0.08 Diluted $ 0.07 $ (0.07 ) $ 0.01 $ 0.06 $ 0.08 The summation of quarterly per share information does not equal amounts for the full year as quarterly calculations are performed on a discrete basis. Additionally, securities may have had an anti-dilutive effect during individual quarters but not for the full year.

Summary of Significant Accoun26

Summary of Significant Accounting Policies (Policies)	12 Months Ended
	Sep. 30, 2015
Accounting Policies [Abstract]
Principles of Consolidation	Principles of Consolidation The accompanying consolidated financial statements include the accounts of UTI and its wholly owned subsidiaries. All significant intercompany accounts and transactions have been eliminated.
Use of Estimates	Use of Estimates The preparation of financial statements in accordance with accounting principles generally accepted in the United States requires management to make certain estimates and assumptions. Such estimates and assumptions affect the reported amounts of assets, liabilities, revenues and expenses and related disclosures of contingent assets and liabilities. On an ongoing basis, we evaluate our estimates and assumptions, including those related to revenue recognition, our proprietary loan program, allowance for uncollectible accounts, investments, property and equipment, goodwill recoverability, self-insurance claim liabilities, income taxes, contingencies and stock-based compensation. We base our estimates on historical experience and on various other assumptions that we believe are reasonable under the circumstances. The results of our analysis form the basis for making judgments about the carrying values of assets and liabilities that are not readily apparent from other sources. Actual results may differ from these estimates under different assumptions or conditions, and the impact of such differences may be material to our consolidated financial statements.
Revenue Recognition	Revenue Recognition Revenues consist primarily of student tuition and fees derived from the programs we provide after reductions are made for discounts and scholarships we sponsor, refunds for students who withdraw from our programs prior to specified dates and the portion of tuition students have funded through our proprietary loan program for which payment has not been received. Tuition and fee revenue is recognized ratably over the term of the course or program offered. Approximately 98% of our revenues for each of the years ended September 30, 2015 , 2014 and 2013 consisted of tuition. The majority of our undergraduate programs are designed to be completed in 45 to 102 weeks and our advanced training programs range from 11 to 24 weeks in duration. We supplement our revenues with sales of textbooks and program supplies and other revenues, which are recognized as sales occur or services are performed. Deferred revenue represents the excess of tuition and fee payments received as compared to tuition and fees earned and is reflected as a current liability in our consolidated balance sheets because it is expected to be earned within the next 12 months.
Proprietary Loan Program	Proprietary Loan Program In order to provide funding for students who are not able to fully finance the cost of their education under traditional governmental financial aid programs, commercial loan programs or other alternative sources, we established a private loan program with a bank. Under terms of the proprietary loan program, the bank originates loans for our students who meet our specific credit criteria with the related proceeds used exclusively to fund a portion of their tuition. We then purchase all such loans from the bank at least monthly and assume all of the related credit risk. The loans bear interest at market rates; however, principal and interest payments are not required until six months after the student completes or withdraws from his or her program. After the deferral period, monthly principal and interest payments are required over the related term of the loan. The bank provides these services in exchange for a fee at a percentage of the principal balance of each loan and related fees. Under the terms of the related agreement, we transfer funds for loan purchases to a deposit account with the bank in advance of the bank funding the loan, which secures our related loan purchase obligation. Such funds are classified as restricted cash in our consolidated balance sheet. In substance, we provide the students who participate in this program with extended payment terms for a portion of their tuition and as a result, we account for the underlying transactions in accordance with our tuition revenue recognition policy. However, due to the nature of the program coupled with the extended payment terms required under the student loan agreements, collectability is not reasonably assured. Accordingly, we recognize tuition and loan origination fees financed by the loan and any related interest income required under the loan when such amounts are collected. All related expenses incurred with the bank or other service providers are expensed as incurred within educational services and facilities expense and were approximately $1.4 million , $1.5 million and $2.0 million for the years ended September 30, 2015, 2014 and 2013, respectively. Since loan collectability is not reasonably assured, the loans and related deferred tuition revenue are not recognized in our consolidated balance sheets. The following table summarizes the impact of the proprietary loan program on our tuition revenue and interest income during each period in our consolidated statements of comprehensive income as well as on a cumulative basis at the end of the current period. Tuition revenue and interest income excluded represents amounts which would have been recognized during the period had collectability of the related amounts been assured. Amounts collected and recognized represent actual cash receipts during the period.
Cash and Cash Equivalents, Restricted Cash and Cash Equivalents, Policy [Policy Text Block]	Restricted Cash Restricted cash primarily represents the funds transferred in advance of loan purchases under our proprietary loan program. Restricted cash also includes funds held for students from Title IV financial aid program funds that result in credit balances on a student’s account.
Allowance for Uncollectible Accounts	Allowance for Uncollectible Accounts We maintain an allowance for uncollectible accounts for estimated losses resulting from the inability, failure or refusal of our students to make required payments. We offer a variety of payment plans to help students pay that portion of their education expenses not covered by financial aid programs or alternate fund sources, which are unsecured and not guaranteed. Management analyzes accounts receivable, historical percentages of uncollectible accounts, customer credit worthiness and changes in payment history when evaluating the adequacy of the allowance for uncollectible accounts. We use an internal group of collectors, augmented by third party collectors as deemed appropriate, in our collection efforts. Although we believe that our allowance is adequate, if the financial condition of our students deteriorates, resulting in an impairment of their ability to make payments, or if we underestimate the allowances required, additional allowances may be necessary, which would result in increased selling, general and administrative expenses in the period such determination is made.
Investments	Investments We invest in pre-funded municipal bonds which are generally secured by escrowed-to-maturity U.S. Treasury notes. Municipal bonds represent debt obligations issued by states, cities, counties and other governmental entities, which earn interest that is exempt from federal income taxes. Additionally, we invest in certificates of deposit issued by financial institutions and corporate bonds from large cap industrial and selected financial companies with a minimum credit rating of A. We have the ability and intention to hold our investments until maturity and therefore classify these investments as held-to-maturity and report them at amortized cost. Investments with an original maturity date of 90 days or less at the time of purchase are classified as cash equivalents and investments with a maturity date greater than one year at the end of the period are classified as non-current. We review our held-to-maturity investments for impairment quarterly to determine if other-than-temporary declines in the carrying value have occurred for any individual investment. Other-than-temporary declines in the value of our held-to-maturity investments are recorded as expense in the period in which the determination is made.
Property and Equipment	Property and Equipment Property, equipment and leasehold improvements are recorded at cost less accumulated depreciation and amortization. Depreciation and amortization expense are calculated using the straight-line method over the estimated useful lives of the related assets. Amortization of leasehold improvements is calculated using the straight-line method over the remaining useful life of the asset or term of lease, whichever is shorter. Costs relating to software developed for internal use and curriculum development are capitalized and amortized using the straight-line method over the related estimated useful lives. Such costs include direct costs of materials and services as well as payroll and related costs for employees who are directly associated with the projects. Maintenance and repairs are expensed as incurred. We review the carrying value of our property and equipment for possible impairment whenever events or changes in circumstances indicate that the carrying amounts may not be recoverable. We evaluate our long-lived assets for impairment by examining estimated future cash flows. These cash flows are evaluated by using probability weighting techniques as well as comparisons of past performance against projections. Assets may also be evaluated by identifying independent market values. If we determine that an asset’s carrying value is impaired, we will write-down the carrying value of the asset to its estimated fair value and charge the impairment as an operating expense in the period in which the determination is made. There were no impairment charges required for the years ended September 30, 2015, 2014 or 2013.
Goodwill	Goodwill Goodwill represents the excess of the cost of an acquired business over the estimated fair values of the assets acquired and liabilities assumed. Goodwill is reviewed at least annually for impairment, which may result from the deterioration in the operating performance of the acquired business, adverse market conditions, adverse changes in the applicable laws or regulations and a variety of other circumstances. Any resulting impairment charge would be recognized as an expense in the period in which impairment is identified. Our goodwill resulted from the acquisition of our motorcycle and marine education business in 1998, and was allocated to two of our reporting units that provide the related educational programs. Our recorded goodwill was $8.2 million as of September 30, 2015. We assess our goodwill for impairment during the fourth quarter of each fiscal year. The change in the carrying value of goodwill is as follows: Balance as of September 30, 2014 $ 20,579 Impairment (12,357 ) Balance as of September 30, 2015 $ 8,222 At September 30, 2015, we recorded a goodwill impairment of $12.4 million . We performed the first step of our goodwill impairment test using a discounted cash flow model that incorporated estimated future cash flows for the next five years and an associated terminal value. Key management assumptions included in the cash flow model included future tuition revenues, operating costs, working capital changes, capital expenditures and a discount rate. The majority of the inputs are unobservable and thus are considered to be Level 3 inputs. During the fourth quarter of 2015, the decline in new student starts at the MMI Phoenix, Arizona campus, combined with modifications to certain other assumptions underlying the estimates, resulted in a decrease in fair value for this reporting unit. We determined that the carrying value of this reporting unit exceeded its fair value, indicating goodwill impairment existed. The result of our valuation indicated that there was no remaining implied value attributable to goodwill in our MMI Phoenix, Arizona campus and accordingly, we expensed all $12.4 million of the goodwill associated with that campus as of September 30, 2015. There was no impairment of the $8.2 million of goodwill related to our MMI Orlando, Florida campus. There were no impairment charges required for the year ended September 30, 2014. Actual experience may differ from the amounts included in our assessment, which could result in additional impairment of our goodwill in the future.
Self-Insurance Plans	Self-Insurance Plans We are self-insured for claims related to employee health and dental care and claims related to workers’ compensation. Liabilities associated with these plans are estimated by management with consideration of our historical loss experience, severity factors and independent actuarial analysis. Our claim liabilities are based on estimates, and while we believe the amounts accrued are adequate, the ultimate losses may differ from the amounts provided.
Deferred Rent Liability	Deferred Rent Liability We lease the majority of our administrative and educational facilities under operating lease agreements. Some lease agreements contain tenant improvement allowances, free rent periods or rent escalation clauses. In instances where one or more of these items are included in a lease agreement, we record a deferred rent liability on the consolidated balance sheet and record rent expense evenly over the term of the lease.
Advertising Costs	Advertising Costs Costs related to advertising are expensed as incurred and totaled approximately $44.7 million , $39.2 million and $37.0 million for the years ended September 30, 2015, 2014 and 2013, respectively.
Stock-Based Compensation	Stock-Based Compensation Historically, we have issued restricted stock awards and restricted stock units with vesting subject to service conditions and stock options. We measure all share-based payments to employees at estimated fair value. We recognize the compensation expense for restricted stock awards and restricted stock units with only service conditions on a straight-line basis over the requisite service period. We did not grant stock options during the years ended September 30, 2015, 2014 and 2013. Shares issued under our equity compensation plans are new shares. Compensation expense associated with restricted stock awards and restricted stock units is measured based on the grant date fair value of our common stock, discounted for non-participation in anticipated dividends during the vesting period. The requisite service period for restricted stock awards and restricted stock units is generally the vesting period. Compensation expense is recognized only for those awards that are expected to vest, which we estimate based upon historical forfeitures.
Income Taxes	Income Taxes We recognize deferred tax assets and liabilities for the estimated future tax consequences of events attributable to differences between the financial statement carrying amounts of existing assets and liabilities and their respective tax bases. We also recognize deferred tax assets for net operating loss and tax credit carryforwards. Deferred tax assets and liabilities are measured using enacted tax rates in effect for the year in which the differences are expected to be recovered or settled. Deferred tax assets are reduced through a valuation allowance if it is more likely than not that the deferred tax assets will not be realized.
Concentration of Risk	Concentration of Risk Financial instruments that potentially subject us to concentrations of credit risk consist principally of cash and cash equivalents, restricted cash, investments and receivables. As of September 30, 2015, we held cash and cash equivalents of $29.4 million , restricted cash of $5.8 million and investments of $29.8 million invested in pre-funded municipal bonds, collateralized by escrowed-to-maturity U.S. treasury notes, certificates of deposit issued by financial institutions and corporate bonds. We place our cash and cash equivalents and restricted cash with high quality financial institutions and limit the amount of credit exposure with any one financial institution. We mitigate the concentration risk of our investments by limiting the amount invested in any one issuer. We mitigate the risk associated with our investment in corporate bonds by requiring a minimum credit rating of A. We extend credit for tuition and fees, for a limited period of time, to a majority of our students. A substantial portion is repaid through the student’s participation in federally funded financial aid programs. Transfers of funds from the financial aid programs to us are made in accordance with the U.S. Department of Education (ED) requirements. Approximately 66% of our revenues, on a cash basis, were collected from funds distributed under Title IV Programs for the year ended September 30, 2015. This percentage differs from our Title IV percentage as calculated under the 90/10 rule due to the prescribed treatment of certain Title IV stipends under the rule. Additionally, approximately 20% of our revenues, on a cash basis, were collected from funds distributed under various veterans benefits programs for the year ended September 30, 2015. The financial aid and veterans benefits programs are subject to political and budgetary considerations. There is no assurance that such funding will be maintained at current levels. Extensive and complex regulations govern the financial assistance programs in which our students participate. Our administration of these programs is periodically reviewed by various regulatory agencies. Any regulatory violation could be the basis for the initiation of potential adverse actions, including a suspension, limitation, placement on reimbursement status or termination proceeding, which could have a material adverse effect on our business. If any of our institutions were to lose its eligibility to participate in federal student financial aid programs, the students at that institution would lose access to funds derived from those programs and would have to seek alternative sources of funds to pay their tuition and fees. Students obtain access to federal student financial aid through an ED prescribed application and eligibility certification process. Student financial aid funds are generally made available to students at prescribed intervals throughout their predetermined expected length of study. Students typically apply the funds received from the federal financial aid programs to pay their tuition and fees. The transfer of funds is from the financial aid program to the student, who then uses those funds to pay for a portion of the cost of their education. The receipt of financial aid funds reduces the student’s amounts due to us and has no impact on revenue recognition, as the transfer relates to the source of funding for the costs of education, which may occur either through Title IV or other funds and resources available to the student.
Fair Value of Financial Instruments	Fair Value of Financial Instruments The carrying value of cash equivalents, restricted cash, accounts receivable, accounts payable, accrued liabilities and deferred tuition approximates their respective fair value as of September 30, 2015 and 2014 due to the short-term nature of these instruments.
Comprehensive Income	Comprehensive Income
Start-up Costs	Start-up Costs Costs related to the start-up of new campuses are expensed as incurred.

Summary of Significant Accoun27

Summary of Significant Accounting Policies (Tables)	12 Months Ended
	Sep. 30, 2015
Accounting Policies [Abstract]
Schedule of Goodwill [Table Text Block]	The change in the carrying value of goodwill is as follows: Balance as of September 30, 2014 $ 20,579 Impairment (12,357 ) Balance as of September 30, 2015 $ 8,222
Impact of the proprietary loan program on our tuition revenue and interest income during the period as well as on a cumulative basis	Year Ended September 30, Inception to date 2015 2014 2013 Tuition and interest income excluded $ 24,192 $ 26,042 $ 22,977 $ 120,093 Amounts collected and recognized (5,440 ) (3,457 ) (2,277 ) (13,919 ) Net amount excluded during the period $ 18,752 $ 22,585 $ 20,700 $ 106,174
Activity related to the balances outstanding under our proprietary loan program, including loans outstanding, interest and origination fees	The following table summarizes the activity related to the balances outstanding under our proprietary loan program, including loans outstanding, interest and origination fees, which are not recognized in our consolidated balance sheets. Amounts written off represent amounts which have been turned over to third party collectors; such amounts are not included within bad debt expense in our consolidated statements of comprehensive income. Year Ended September 30, 2015 2014 Balance at beginning of period $ 70,759 $ 59,767 Loans extended 18,740 22,174 Interest accrued 3,108 2,835 Amounts collected and recognized (5,440 ) (3,457 ) Amounts written off (12,503 ) (10,560 ) Balance at end of period $ 74,664 $ 70,759

Postemployment Benefits (Tables

Postemployment Benefits (Tables)	12 Months Ended
	Sep. 30, 2015
Postemployment Benefits [Abstract]
Postemployment Activity	The postemployment benefit accrual activity for the year ended September 30, 2015 was as follows: Liability Balance at Postemployment Cash Paid Other Liability Balance at Severance $ 2,150 $ 1,555 $ (2,902 ) $ (258 ) $ 545 Other 16 215 (150 ) (81 ) — Total $ 2,166 $ 1,770 $ (3,052 ) $ (339 ) $ 545 (1) Primarily relates to the expiration of benefits not used within the time offered under the separation agreement and non-cash severance.

Receivables, net (Tables)

Receivables, net (Tables)	12 Months Ended
	Sep. 30, 2015
Receivables [Abstract]
Receivables, net	Receivables, net consist of the following: September 30, 2015 2014 Tuition receivables $ 18,517 $ 12,662 Other receivables 5,712 3,250 Receivables 24,229 15,912 Less allowance for uncollectible accounts (1,820 ) (3,794 ) $ 22,409 $ 12,118
Summary of the activity for our allowance for uncollectible accounts	The following table summarizes the activity for our allowance for uncollectible accounts for the year ended September 30: Balance at Additions to Write-offs of Balance at 2015 $ 3,794 $ 2,634 $ (4,608 ) $ 1,820 2014 $ 4,149 $ 3,972 $ (4,327 ) $ 3,794 2013 $ 4,108 $ 4,720 $ (4,679 ) $ 4,149

Investments (Tables)

Investments (Tables)	12 Months Ended
	Sep. 30, 2015
Investments, Debt and Equity Securities [Abstract]
Amortized Cost and Fair Value of Held to Maturity Investments	Amortized cost and fair value for investments classified as held-to-maturity at September 30, 2015 were as follows: Estimated Amortized Gross Unrealized Fair Market Cost Gains Losses Value Due in less than 1 year: Municipal bonds $ 13,117 $ 14 $ (1 ) $ 13,130 Corporate bonds 11,402 1 (10 ) 11,393 Certificates of deposit 3,567 — — 3,567 Due in 1 - 2 years: Municipal bonds 771 2 — 773 Corporate bonds 201 — — 201 Certificates of deposit 747 — — 747 $ 29,805 $ 17 $ (11 ) $ 29,811 Amortized cost and fair value for investments classified as held-to-maturity at September 30, 2014 were as follows: Estimated Amortized Gross Unrealized Fair Market Cost Gains Losses Value Due in less than 1 year: Municipal bonds $ 26,894 $ 20 $ — $ 26,914 Corporate bonds 16,836 1 (24 ) 16,813 Certificates of deposit 2,176 — — 2,176 Due in 1 - 2 years: Municipal bonds 4,230 7 — 4,237 Corporate bonds 4,054 — (13 ) 4,041 Certificates of deposit 2,973 — — 2,973 $ 57,163 $ 28 $ (37 ) $ 57,154

Fair Value Measurements (Tables

Fair Value Measurements (Tables)	12 Months Ended
	Sep. 30, 2015
Fair Value Disclosures [Abstract]
Summary of Fair Value of Our Money Market Mutual Funds, Municipal Bonds and Certificates of Deposit	Assets measured or disclosed at fair value on a recurring basis consisted of the following: Fair Value Measurements Using September 30, 2015 Quoted Prices Significant Significant Money market funds $ 24,369 $ 24,369 $ — $ — Corporate bonds 11,594 11,594 — — Municipal bonds 13,903 — 13,903 — Certificates of deposit 4,314 — 4,314 — Total assets at fair value on a recurring basis $ 54,180 $ 35,963 $ 18,217 $ — Fair Value Measurements Using September 30, 2014 Quoted Prices Significant Significant Money market funds $ 29,995 $ 29,995 $ — $ — Corporate bonds 20,854 20,854 — — Municipal bonds 31,151 — 31,151 — Certificates of deposit 5,149 — 5,149 — Total assets at fair value on a recurring basis $ 87,149 $ 50,849 $ 36,300 $ — Our Level 2 investments are valued using readily available pricing sources which utilize market observable inputs, including the current interest rate for similar types of instruments.

Property and Equipment, net (Ta

Property and Equipment, net (Tables)	12 Months Ended
	Sep. 30, 2015
Property, Plant and Equipment [Abstract]
Property and equipment, net	Property and equipment, net consisted of the following: Depreciable September 30, September 30, Land — $ 3,189 $ 1,456 Building and building improvements 30-35 79,555 50,306 Leasehold improvements 1-28 39,326 38,906 Training equipment 3-10 87,795 85,673 Office and computer equipment 3-10 38,776 37,271 Curriculum development 5 18,716 18,716 Software developed for internal use 3-5 11,859 11,888 Vehicles 5 1,233 1,207 Construction in progress — 3,941 10,746 284,390 256,169 Less accumulated depreciation and amortization (160,246 ) (149,242 ) $ 124,144 $ 106,927
Assets financed by financing obligations	The following amounts, which are included in the above table, represent assets financed by financing obligations: September 30, September 30, Buildings and building improvements $ 45,816 $ 33,500 Construction in progress — 4,638 Assets financed by financing obligations, gross 45,816 38,138 Less accumulated depreciation and amortization (3,480 ) (1,551 ) Assets financed by financing obligation, net $ 42,336 $ 36,587

Build-to-Suit Lease (Tables)

Build-to-Suit Lease (Tables)	12 Months Ended
	Sep. 30, 2015
Leases [Abstract]
Future minimum lease payments	Years ending September 30, 2016 $ 4,284 2017 4,402 2018 4,522 2019 4,646 2020 4,772 Thereafter 59,903 Total future minimum lease obligation $ 82,529 Less imputed interest on financing obligation (37,045 ) Less imputed accrued land lease obligation (694 ) Net present value of financing obligation $ 44,790

Investment in Unconsolidated 34

Investment in Unconsolidated Affiliate (Tables)	12 Months Ended
	Sep. 30, 2015
Investment in Unconsolidated Affiliate [Abstract]
Equity Method Investments [Table Text Block]	Investment in unconsolidated affiliate consists of the following: September 30, 2015 September 30, 2014 Carrying Value (In thousands) Ownership Percentage Carrying Value (In thousands) Ownership Percentage Investment in unconsolidated affiliate $ 3,986 27.972 % $ 3,903 27.972 % Investment in unconsolidated affiliate included the following activity during the period: Year ended September 30, 2015 2014 Balance at beginning of period $ 3,903 $ 4,000 Equity in earnings of unconsolidated affiliate 527 471 Return of capital contribution from unconsolidated affiliate (464 ) (568 ) Equity interest in investee's unrealized gains on hedging derivatives, net of taxes 20 — Balance at end of period $ 3,986 $ 3,903

Accounts Payable and Accrued 35

Accounts Payable and Accrued Expenses (Tables)	12 Months Ended
	Sep. 30, 2015
Payables and Accruals [Abstract]
Accounts payable and accrued expenses	Accounts payable and accrued expenses consisted of the following: September 30, 2015 September 30, 2014 Accounts payable $ 14,498 $ 12,990 Accrued compensation and benefits 17,534 17,963 Other accrued expenses 10,588 7,874 $ 42,620 $ 38,827

Income Taxes (Tables)

Income Taxes (Tables)	12 Months Ended
	Sep. 30, 2015
Income Tax Disclosure [Abstract]
Components of income tax expense	The components of income tax expense are as follows: Year Ended September 30, 2015 2014 2013 Current expense United States federal $ 2,819 $ 6,425 $ 5,317 State 1,043 1,335 1,490 Total current expense (benefit) 3,862 7,760 6,807 Deferred (benefit) expense United States federal (5,109 ) (3,923 ) (3,500 ) State (285 ) (127 ) (294 ) Total deferred (benefit) expense (5,394 ) (4,050 ) (3,794 ) Total provision for income taxes $ (1,532 ) $ 3,710 $ 3,013
Reconciliation of tax rate	The income tax provision differs from the tax that would result from application of the statutory federal tax rate of 35.0% to pre-tax income for the year. The reasons for the differences are as follows: Year Ended September 30, 2015 2014 2013 Income tax expense at statutory rate $ (3,738 ) $ 2,012 $ 2,419 State income taxes, net of federal tax benefit 393 697 504 Deferred tax asset write-off related to share based 1,572 828 — Other, net 241 173 90 Total income tax expense $ (1,532 ) $ 3,710 $ 3,013
Components of Deferred tax assets (liabilities)	The components of the deferred tax assets (liabilities) recorded in the accompanying consolidated balance sheets were as follows: September 30, 2015 2014 Gross deferred tax assets: Deferred compensation $ 1,784 $ 1,846 Reserves and accruals 5,395 8,847 Accrued tool sets 1,460 1,548 Deferred revenue 19,606 16,318 Deferred rent liability 1,939 2,539 Net operating loss carryovers 83 175 State tax credit carryforwards 310 319 Valuation allowance (401 ) (273 ) Total gross deferred tax assets 30,176 31,319 Gross deferred tax liabilities: Amortization of goodwill and intangibles (3,140 ) (8,026 ) Depreciation and amortization of property and equipment (421 ) (2,536 ) Prepaid and other expenses deductible for tax (1,828 ) (1,364 ) Total deferred tax liabilities, net (5,389 ) (11,926 ) Net deferred tax assets $ 24,787 $ 19,393
Classification of deferred tax assets (liabilities)
Summary of valuation allowance	The following table summarizes the activity for the valuation allowance for the year ended September 30: Balance at Beginning of Period Additions (Reductions) to Income Tax Expense Write-offs Balance at End of Period 2015 $ 273 $ 128 $ — $ 401 2014 $ 224 $ 49 $ — $ 273 2013 $ 80 $ 144 $ — $ 224

Commitments and Contingencies (

Commitments and Contingencies (Tables)	12 Months Ended
	Sep. 30, 2015
Commitments and Contingencies Disclosure [Abstract]
Future Minimum Rental Commitments	Future minimum rental commitments as of September 30, 2015 for all non-cancelable operating leases are as follows: Years ending September 30, Gross Sublease income Net 2016 $ 27,901 (321 ) $ 27,580 2017 27,457 (325 ) 27,132 2018 27,347 (328 ) 27,019 2019 26,917 (332 ) 26,585 2020 22,482 (157 ) 22,325 Thereafter 46,272 — 46,272 $ 178,376 $ (1,463 ) $ 176,913

Common Shareholders' Equity (Ta

Common Shareholders' Equity (Tables)	12 Months Ended
	Sep. 30, 2015
Equity [Abstract]
Summary of operating expense line and the impact on net income	The following table summarizes the operating expense line and the impact on net income in the consolidated statements of income in which stock-based compensation expense has been recorded: Year Ended September 30, 2015 2014 2013 Educational services and facilities $ 294 $ 587 $ 617 Selling, general and administrative 3,971 5,134 5,607 Total stock-based compensation expense $ 4,265 $ 5,721 $ 6,224 Income tax benefit $ 1,629 $ 2,288 $ 2,427
Schedule of Share-based Payment Award, Stock Options, Valuation Assumptions [Table Text Block]	The following table summarizes the weighted average fair values of the restricted stock units granted: Year Ended September 30, 2015 2014 2013 Weighted average grant date fair value per share $ 4.49 $ 10.05 $ 9.60
Summary of stock option activity
Cash received and associated tax benefit
Share-based compensation activity, restricted stock	The following table summarizes restricted stock activity under the 2003 Plan: Number of Shares (In thousands) Weighted Average Grant Date Fair Value per Share Nonvested restricted stock outstanding as of September 30, 2014 401 $ 12.99 Restricted stock vested (146 ) $ 13.20 Restricted stock forfeited (37 ) $ 13.03 Nonvested restricted stock outstanding as of September 30, 2015 218 $ 12.85 The following table summarizes restricted stock unit activity under the 2003 Plan: Number of Shares Weighted Average Nonvested restricted stock units outstanding as of September 30, 2014 673 $ 9.76 Restricted stock units awarded 568 $ 4.49 Restricted stock units vested (188 ) $ 9.75 Restricted stock units forfeited (58 ) $ 9.72 Nonvested restricted stock units outstanding as of September 30, 2015 995 $ 6.76
Share-based compensation activity, restricted stock units	The following table summarizes restricted stock activity under the 2003 Plan: Number of Shares (In thousands) Weighted Average Grant Date Fair Value per Share Nonvested restricted stock outstanding as of September 30, 2014 401 $ 12.99 Restricted stock vested (146 ) $ 13.20 Restricted stock forfeited (37 ) $ 13.03 Nonvested restricted stock outstanding as of September 30, 2015 218 $ 12.85 The following table summarizes restricted stock unit activity under the 2003 Plan: Number of Shares Weighted Average Nonvested restricted stock units outstanding as of September 30, 2014 673 $ 9.76 Restricted stock units awarded 568 $ 4.49 Restricted stock units vested (188 ) $ 9.75 Restricted stock units forfeited (58 ) $ 9.72 Nonvested restricted stock units outstanding as of September 30, 2015 995 $ 6.76

Earnings per Share (Tables)

Earnings per Share (Tables)	12 Months Ended
	Sep. 30, 2015
Earnings Per Share [Abstract]
Summary of Calculation of Weighted Average Number of Shares Outstanding Used in Computing Basic and Diluted Net Income Loss Per Share	The calculation of the weighted average number of shares outstanding used in computing basic and diluted net income per share was as follows: Year Ended September 30, 2015 2014 2013 Weighted average number of shares (In thousands) Basic shares outstanding 24,391 24,640 24,515 Dilutive effect related to employee stock plans — 280 189 Diluted shares outstanding 24,391 24,920 24,704

Segment Information (Tables)

Segment Information (Tables)	12 Months Ended
	Sep. 30, 2015
Segment Reporting [Abstract]
Summary of Information by Reportable Segment	Summary information by reportable segment is as follows: Year Ended September 30, 2015 2014 2013 Revenues Postsecondary education $ 350,682 $ 367,630 $ 371,717 Other 11,992 10,763 8,605 Consolidated $ 362,674 $ 378,393 $ 380,322 Income (loss) from operations Postsecondary education $ (5,911 ) $ 9,045 $ 8,455 Other (3,312 ) (2,708 ) (2,430 ) Consolidated $ (9,223 ) $ 6,337 $ 6,025 Depreciation and amortization (1) Postsecondary education $ 18,888 $ 20,121 $ 21,796 Other 267 353 360 Consolidated $ 19,155 $ 20,474 $ 22,156 Net income (loss) Postsecondary education $ (7,477 ) $ 3,272 $ 5,293 Other (1,672 ) (1,235 ) (1,392 ) Consolidated $ (9,149 ) $ 2,037 $ 3,901 As of September 30, 2015 2014 2013 Goodwill Postsecondary education $ 8,222 $ 20,579 $ 20,579 Other — — — Consolidated $ 8,222 $ 20,579 $ 20,579 Total assets Postsecondary education $ 266,922 $ 282,529 $ 272,909 Other 7,380 5,540 7,285 Consolidated $ 274,302 $ 288,069 $ 280,194 (1) Excludes depreciation of training equipment obtained in exchange for services of $ 1.2 million , $ 1.2 million and $ 1.1 million for the years ended September 30, 2015, 2014 and 2013, respectively.

Quarterly Financial Summary (41

Quarterly Financial Summary (Unaudited) (Tables)	12 Months Ended
	Sep. 30, 2015
Quarterly Financial Information Disclosure [Abstract]
Quarterly Financial Summary (Unaudited)	Year ended September 30, 2015 First Second Third Fourth (1) Fiscal Revenues $ 95,680 $ 91,235 $ 85,106 $ 90,653 $ 362,674 Income (loss) from operations $ 5,600 $ 2,402 $ (3,996 ) $ (13,229 ) $ (9,223 ) Net income (loss) $ 3,094 $ 555 $ (2,975 ) $ (9,823 ) $ (9,149 ) Income (loss) per share: Basic $ 0.12 $ 0.02 $ (0.12 ) $ (0.41 ) $ (0.38 ) Diluted $ 0.12 $ 0.02 $ (0.12 ) $ (0.41 ) $ (0.38 ) (1) The quarter ended September 30, 2015 included goodwill impairment of $12.4 million . Year ended September 30, 2014 First Second Third Fourth Fiscal Revenues $ 97,040 $ 94,711 $ 91,329 $ 95,313 $ 378,393 Income (loss) from operations $ 3,058 $ (1,612 ) $ 1,011 $ 3,880 $ 6,337 Net income (loss) $ 1,707 $ (1,620 ) $ 366 $ 1,584 $ 2,037 Income (loss) per share: Basic $ 0.07 $ (0.07 ) $ 0.01 $ 0.06 $ 0.08 Diluted $ 0.07 $ (0.07 ) $ 0.01 $ 0.06 $ 0.08

Business Description (Narrative

Business Description (Narrative) (Details)	Sep. 30, 2015Campus
Organization, Consolidation and Presentation of Financial Statements [Abstract]
Number of campuses through which undergraduate degree, diploma and certificate programs are offered	12

Summary of Significant Accoun43

Summary of Significant Accounting Policies (Narrative) (Details) $ in Thousands	12 Months Ended
	Sep. 30, 2015USD ($)segment	Sep. 30, 2014USD ($)	Sep. 30, 2013USD ($)	Sep. 30, 2012USD ($)	Sep. 30, 2010USD ($)
Accounting Policies [Abstract]
Equity Method Investments	$ 3,986	$ 3,903	$ 4,000	$ 4,000
Revenue consisted of tuition	98.00%	98.00%	98.00%
Expenses Incurred with bank and other services	$ 1,400	$ 1,500	$ 2,000
Total amount of loans committed to provide	$ 123,900
Maximum maturity period	90 days
Number of reporting units | segment	2
Goodwill	$ 8,222	20,579	20,579
Accrued Insurance	3,500
Advertising Expenses	44,700	39,200	37,000
Stock Based Compensation Expenses	4,265	5,721	6,224
Tax Benefit	1,629	2,288	2,427
Cash and cash equivalents	29,438	38,985	$ 34,596		$ 44,611
Restricted cash	5,824	6,544
Investment	$ 29,800
Percentage of cash basis revenue collected from funds distributed under Title IV programs	66.00%
Percentage of Cash Basis Revenue Collected from Funds Distributed Under Veterans Benefits Programs	20.00%
Equity interest in investee's unrealized gains on hedging derivatives, net of taxes	$ 20	$ 0

Summary of Significant Accoun44

Summary of Significant Accounting Policies (Impact of Proprietary Loan Program on Tuition Revenue and Interest Income) (Details) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	12 Months Ended			88 Months Ended
	Sep. 30, 2015	Sep. 30, 2014	Sep. 30, 2013	Sep. 30, 2015
Schedule of impact of proprietary loan program on our tuition revenue and interest income
Tuition and interest income excluded	$ 24,192	$ 26,042	$ 22,977	$ 120,093
Amounts collected and recognized	(5,440)	(3,457)	(2,277)	(13,919)
Amounts written off	(12,503)	(10,560)
Net amount excluded during the period	$ 18,752	$ 22,585	$ 20,700	$ 106,174

Summary of Significant Accoun45

Summary of Significant Accounting Policies (Balances Outstanding under Proprietary Loan Program) (Details) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	12 Months Ended			88 Months Ended
	Sep. 30, 2015	Sep. 30, 2014	Sep. 30, 2013	Sep. 30, 2015
Activity related to the balances outstanding under our proprietary loan program
Balance at beginning of period	$ 70,759	$ 59,767
Loans extended	18,740	22,174
Interest accrued	3,108	2,835
Amounts collected and recognized	(5,440)	(3,457)	$ (2,277)	$ (13,919)
Amounts written off	(12,503)	(10,560)
Balance at ending of period	$ 74,664	$ 70,759	$ 59,767	$ 74,664

Summary of Significant Accoun46

Summary of Significant Accounting Policies Rollforward of goodwill balance (Details) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	3 Months Ended	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2014	Sep. 30, 2015	Sep. 30, 2014	Sep. 30, 2013
Goodwill [Line Items]
Goodwill		$ 8,222	$ 20,579	$ 20,579
Goodwill Impairment	$ (12,400)	$ (12,357)	$ 0	$ 0

Summary of Significant Accoun47

Summary of Significant Accounting Policies Goodwill Text (Details) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	3 Months Ended	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2014	Sep. 30, 2015	Sep. 30, 2014	Sep. 30, 2013
Goodwill [Line Items]
Goodwill Impairment	$ 12,400	$ 12,357	$ 0	$ 0
Goodwill		8,222	$ 20,579	$ 20,579
ARIZONA
Goodwill [Line Items]
Goodwill Impairment		12,357
Orlando Florida Campus
Goodwill [Line Items]
Goodwill		$ 8,200

Postemployment Benefits (Narrat

Postemployment Benefits (Narrative) (Details) $ in Thousands	1 Months Ended	12 Months Ended
	Sep. 30, 2014USD ($)employees	Sep. 30, 2015USD ($)
Schedule of Postemployment Benefits [Line Items]
Number of impacted employees due to reduction in workforce | employees	50
Expiration Period Of Postemployment Benefits Agreements		2016-05
Postemployment benefit expense	$ 1,200	$ 1,770
Minimum [Member]
Schedule of Postemployment Benefits [Line Items]
Period for payment of post employment benefit		1 month
Maximum [Member]
Schedule of Postemployment Benefits [Line Items]
Period for payment of post employment benefit		24 months
Employee Severance [Member]
Schedule of Postemployment Benefits [Line Items]
Postemployment benefit expense		$ 1,555

Postemployment Benefits (Postem

Postemployment Benefits (Postemployment Activity) (Details) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	1 Months Ended	12 Months Ended
	Sep. 30, 2014	Sep. 30, 2015
Postemployment Benefits Disclosure [Line Items]
Liability Beginning Balance		$ 2,166
Postemployment Benefit Charges	$ 1,200	1,770
Cash Paid		(3,052)
Other Non-cash		(339)
Liability Ending Balance	2,166	545
Severance
Postemployment Benefits Disclosure [Line Items]
Liability Beginning Balance		2,150
Postemployment Benefit Charges		1,555
Cash Paid		(2,902)
Other Non-cash		(258)
Liability Ending Balance	2,150	545
Other
Postemployment Benefits Disclosure [Line Items]
Liability Beginning Balance		16
Postemployment Benefit Charges		215
Cash Paid		(150)
Other Non-cash		(81)
Liability Ending Balance	$ 16	$ 0

Receivables, net (Details)

Receivables, net (Details) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	12 Months Ended
	Sep. 30, 2015	Sep. 30, 2014	Sep. 30, 2013
Accounts, Notes, Loans and Financing Receivable [Line Items]
Allowance for Doubtful Accounts Receivable, Write-offs	$ 4,608	$ 4,327	$ 4,679
Tuition receivables	18,517	12,662
Other receivables	5,712	3,250
Receivables	24,229	15,912
Less allowance for uncollectible accounts	(1,820)	(3,794)
Total	22,409	$ 12,118
Student funds received from a non-Title IV federal funding agency [Member]
Accounts, Notes, Loans and Financing Receivable [Line Items]
Allowance for Doubtful Accounts Receivable, Write-offs	$ (1,000)

Receivables, net (Allowance for

Receivables, net (Allowance for Uncollectible Accounts) (Details) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	12 Months Ended
	Sep. 30, 2015	Sep. 30, 2014	Sep. 30, 2013
Accounts, Notes, Loans and Financing Receivable [Line Items]
Balance at Beginning of Period	$ 3,794	$ 4,149	$ 4,108
Additions to Bad Debt Expense	1,589	3,972	4,720
Write-offs of Uncollectible Accounts	(4,608)	(4,327)	(4,679)
Balance at End of Period	1,820	3,794	4,149
Trade Accounts Receivable [Member]
Accounts, Notes, Loans and Financing Receivable [Line Items]
Additions to Bad Debt Expense	$ 2,634	$ 3,972	$ 4,720

Investments (Amortized Cost and

Investments (Amortized Cost and Fair Value of Held to Maturity Investments) (Details) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	Sep. 30, 2015	Sep. 30, 2014
Schedule of Held-to-maturity Securities [Line Items]
Amortized Cost	$ 29,805	$ 57,163
Gross Unrealized Gains	17	28
Gross Unrealized Losses	(11)	(37)
Estimated Fair Market Value	29,811	57,154
Municipal bonds, due in less than 1 year
Schedule of Held-to-maturity Securities [Line Items]
Amortized Cost	13,117	26,894
Gross Unrealized Gains	14	20
Gross Unrealized Losses	(1)	0
Estimated Fair Market Value	13,130	26,914
Corporate bonds, due in less than 1 year
Schedule of Held-to-maturity Securities [Line Items]
Amortized Cost	11,402	16,836
Gross Unrealized Gains	1	1
Gross Unrealized Losses	(10)	(24)
Estimated Fair Market Value	11,393	16,813
Certificates of deposit, due in less than 1 year
Schedule of Held-to-maturity Securities [Line Items]
Amortized Cost	3,567	2,176
Gross Unrealized Gains	0	0
Gross Unrealized Losses	0	0
Estimated Fair Market Value	3,567	2,176
Municipal bonds, due in 1 - 2 years
Schedule of Held-to-maturity Securities [Line Items]
Amortized Cost	771	4,230
Gross Unrealized Gains	2	7
Gross Unrealized Losses	0	0
Estimated Fair Market Value	773	4,237
Corporate bonds due In 1 - 2 years
Schedule of Held-to-maturity Securities [Line Items]
Amortized Cost	201	4,054
Gross Unrealized Gains	0	0
Gross Unrealized Losses	0	(13)
Estimated Fair Market Value	201	4,041
Certificates of deposit, due in 1- 2 years
Schedule of Held-to-maturity Securities [Line Items]
Amortized Cost	747	2,973
Gross Unrealized Gains	0	0
Gross Unrealized Losses	0	0
Estimated Fair Market Value	$ 747	$ 2,973

Fair Value Measurements (Assets

Fair Value Measurements (Assets Measured at Fair Value on a Recurring Basis) (Details) - Fair Value, Measurements, Recurring - USD ($) $ in Thousands	Sep. 30, 2015	Sep. 30, 2014
Estimate of Fair Value Measurement [Member]
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring Basis [Line Items]
Total assets at fair value on a recurring basis	$ 54,180	$ 87,149
Estimate of Fair Value Measurement [Member] | Money market funds
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring Basis [Line Items]
Total assets at fair value on a recurring basis	24,369	29,995
Estimate of Fair Value Measurement [Member] | Corporate bonds
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring Basis [Line Items]
Total assets at fair value on a recurring basis	11,594	20,854
Estimate of Fair Value Measurement [Member] | Municipal bonds
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring Basis [Line Items]
Total assets at fair value on a recurring basis	13,903	31,151
Estimate of Fair Value Measurement [Member] | Certificates of deposit
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring Basis [Line Items]
Total assets at fair value on a recurring basis	4,314	5,149
Quoted Prices in Active Markets for Identical Assets (Level 1)
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring Basis [Line Items]
Total assets at fair value on a recurring basis	35,963	50,849
Quoted Prices in Active Markets for Identical Assets (Level 1) | Money market funds
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring Basis [Line Items]
Total assets at fair value on a recurring basis	24,369	29,995
Quoted Prices in Active Markets for Identical Assets (Level 1) | Corporate bonds
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring Basis [Line Items]
Total assets at fair value on a recurring basis	11,594	20,854
Quoted Prices in Active Markets for Identical Assets (Level 1) | Municipal bonds
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring Basis [Line Items]
Total assets at fair value on a recurring basis	0	0
Quoted Prices in Active Markets for Identical Assets (Level 1) | Certificates of deposit
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring Basis [Line Items]
Total assets at fair value on a recurring basis	0	0
Significant Other Observable Inputs (Level 2)
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring Basis [Line Items]
Total assets at fair value on a recurring basis	18,217	36,300
Significant Other Observable Inputs (Level 2) | Money market funds
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring Basis [Line Items]
Total assets at fair value on a recurring basis	0	0
Significant Other Observable Inputs (Level 2) | Corporate bonds
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring Basis [Line Items]
Total assets at fair value on a recurring basis	0	0
Significant Other Observable Inputs (Level 2) | Municipal bonds
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring Basis [Line Items]
Total assets at fair value on a recurring basis	13,903	31,151
Significant Other Observable Inputs (Level 2) | Certificates of deposit
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring Basis [Line Items]
Total assets at fair value on a recurring basis	4,314	5,149
Significant Unobservable Inputs (Level 3)
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring Basis [Line Items]
Total assets at fair value on a recurring basis	0	0
Significant Unobservable Inputs (Level 3) | Money market funds
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring Basis [Line Items]
Total assets at fair value on a recurring basis	0	0
Significant Unobservable Inputs (Level 3) | Corporate bonds
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring Basis [Line Items]
Total assets at fair value on a recurring basis	0	0
Significant Unobservable Inputs (Level 3) | Municipal bonds
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring Basis [Line Items]
Total assets at fair value on a recurring basis	0	0
Significant Unobservable Inputs (Level 3) | Certificates of deposit
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring Basis [Line Items]
Total assets at fair value on a recurring basis	$ 0	$ 0

Property and Equipment, net (Na

Property and Equipment, net (Narrative) (Details) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	1 Months Ended	12 Months Ended
	Mar. 31, 2015	Sep. 30, 2015	Sep. 30, 2014	Sep. 30, 2013
Property, Plant and Equipment [Line Items]
Financing obligation, current		$ 737	$ 5,234
Capital Leased Assets, Gross, Orlando Building and Building Improvements		45,816	38,138
Depreciation		16,500	17,700	$ 18,400
Amortization		$ 3,600	4,000	$ 4,800
Houston [Member]
Property, Plant and Equipment [Line Items]
Property, Plant and Equipment, Additions	$ 9,400
Lease Expiration Date		Dec. 31, 2018
Property, Plant and Equipment, Transfers and Changes	5,000
Accumulated Depreciation, Depletion and Amortization, Reclassifications from Property, Plant and Equipment	4,300
Property, Plant and Equipment, Useful Life		30 years
Orlando Florida Campus
Property, Plant and Equipment [Line Items]
Lease Expiration Date		Aug. 31, 2022
Building and Building Improvements [Member]
Property, Plant and Equipment [Line Items]
Capital Leased Assets, Gross, Orlando Building and Building Improvements		$ 45,816	$ 33,500
Building and Building Improvements [Member] | Houston [Member]
Property, Plant and Equipment [Line Items]
Property, Plant and Equipment, Additions	7,700
Building and Building Improvements [Member] | Orlando Florida Campus
Property, Plant and Equipment [Line Items]
Financing obligation, current		4,600
Capital Leased Assets, Gross, Orlando Building and Building Improvements		$ 4,600
Land [Member] | Houston [Member]
Property, Plant and Equipment [Line Items]
Property, Plant and Equipment, Additions	$ 1,700
Minimum [Member] | Office And Computer Equipment [Member]
Property, Plant and Equipment [Line Items]
Property, Plant and Equipment, Useful Life		3 years
Minimum [Member] | Building and Building Improvements [Member]
Property, Plant and Equipment [Line Items]
Property, Plant and Equipment, Useful Life		30 years

Property and Equipment, net (De

Property and Equipment, net (Details) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	12 Months Ended
	Sep. 30, 2015	Sep. 30, 2014
Property, Plant and Equipment [Line Items]
Property and equipment, gross	$ 284,390	$ 256,169
Less accumulated depreciation and amortization	(160,246)	(149,242)
Property and equipment, net	124,144	106,927
Land [Member]
Property, Plant and Equipment [Line Items]
Property and equipment, gross	3,189	1,456
Building and Building Improvements [Member]
Property, Plant and Equipment [Line Items]
Property and equipment, gross	$ 79,555	50,306
Building and Building Improvements [Member] | Minimum [Member]
Property, Plant and Equipment [Line Items]
Property, Plant and Equipment, Useful Life	30 years
Building and Building Improvements [Member] | Maximum [Member]
Property, Plant and Equipment [Line Items]
Property, Plant and Equipment, Useful Life	35 years
Leasehold improvements [Member]
Property, Plant and Equipment [Line Items]
Property and equipment, gross	$ 39,326	38,906
Leasehold improvements [Member] | Minimum [Member]
Property, Plant and Equipment [Line Items]
Property, Plant and Equipment, Useful Life	1 year
Leasehold improvements [Member] | Maximum [Member]
Property, Plant and Equipment [Line Items]
Property, Plant and Equipment, Useful Life	28 years
Training equipment [Member]
Property, Plant and Equipment [Line Items]
Property and equipment, gross	$ 87,795	85,673
Training equipment [Member] | Minimum [Member]
Property, Plant and Equipment [Line Items]
Property, Plant and Equipment, Useful Life	3 years
Training equipment [Member] | Maximum [Member]
Property, Plant and Equipment [Line Items]
Property, Plant and Equipment, Useful Life	10 years
Office And Computer Equipment [Member]
Property, Plant and Equipment [Line Items]
Property and equipment, gross	$ 38,776	37,271
Office And Computer Equipment [Member] | Minimum [Member]
Property, Plant and Equipment [Line Items]
Property, Plant and Equipment, Useful Life	3 years
Office And Computer Equipment [Member] | Maximum [Member]
Property, Plant and Equipment [Line Items]
Property, Plant and Equipment, Useful Life	10 years
Software developed for internal use [Member]
Property, Plant and Equipment [Line Items]
Property and equipment, gross	$ 11,859	11,888
Software developed for internal use [Member] | Minimum [Member]
Property, Plant and Equipment [Line Items]
Property, Plant and Equipment, Useful Life	3 years
Software developed for internal use [Member] | Maximum [Member]
Property, Plant and Equipment [Line Items]
Property, Plant and Equipment, Useful Life	5 years
Curriculum development [Member]
Property, Plant and Equipment [Line Items]
Property, Plant and Equipment, Useful Life	5 years
Property and equipment, gross	$ 18,716	18,716
Vehicles [Member]
Property, Plant and Equipment [Line Items]
Property, Plant and Equipment, Useful Life	5 years
Property and equipment, gross	$ 1,233	1,207
Construction in progress [Member]
Property, Plant and Equipment [Line Items]
Property and equipment, gross	$ 3,941	$ 10,746

Property and Equipment, net Ass

Property and Equipment, net Assets Financed by Financing Obligations (Details) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	Sep. 30, 2015	Sep. 30, 2014
Capital Leased Assets [Line Items]
Capital Leased Assets, Gross	$ 45,816	$ 38,138
Capital Leases, Lessee Balance Sheet, Assets by Major Class, Accumulated Depreciation	(3,480)	(1,551)
Capital Leases, Balance Sheet, Assets by Major Class, Net	42,336	36,587
Building and Building Improvements [Member]
Capital Leased Assets [Line Items]
Capital Leased Assets, Gross	45,816	33,500
Construction in progress [Member]
Capital Leased Assets [Line Items]
Capital Leased Assets, Gross	$ 0	$ 4,638

Build-to-Suit Lease (Future Min

Build-to-Suit Lease (Future Minimum Lease Payments) (Details) $ in Thousands	Sep. 30, 2015USD ($)
Future minimum rental commitments
2,015	$ 4,284
2,016	4,402
2,017	4,522
2,018	4,646
2,019	4,772
Thereafter	59,903
Financing Obligations - Total	82,529
Capital Leases, Future Minimum Payments, Present Value of Net Minimum Payments	44,790
Lisle Illinois Campus [Member]
Future minimum rental commitments
Capital Leases, Future Minimum Payments, Interest Included in Payments	(37,045)
Financing Obligation on Land Lease [Member] [Member] | Lisle Illinois Campus [Member]
Future minimum rental commitments
Financing Obligations - Total	$ (694)

Build-to-Suit Lease (Narrative)

Build-to-Suit Lease (Narrative) (Details)	12 Months Ended
	Sep. 30, 2015
Long Beach, California campus [Member]
Property, Plant and Equipment [Line Items]
Lessee Leasing Arrangements, Capital Leases, Term of Contract	15 years

Investment in Unconsolidated 59

Investment in Unconsolidated Affiliate (Details) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	12 Months Ended
	Sep. 30, 2015	Sep. 30, 2014	Sep. 30, 2013	Sep. 30, 2015	Sep. 30, 2014	Sep. 30, 2013
Investment in Unconsolidated Affiliate [Abstract]
Equity Method Investments	$ 3,903	$ 4,000	$ 4,000	$ 3,986	$ 3,903	$ 4,000
Investment in Unconsolidated Affiliate, Ownership Percentage				27.972%	27.972%	28.00%
Investment in Unconsolidated Affiliate, Beginning Balance	3,903	4,000	4,000
Equity in earnings of unconsolidated affiliate	527	471	0
Return of capital contribution from unconsolidated affiliate	(464)	(568)	0
Investment in Unconsolidated Affiliate, Ending Balance	3,986	3,903	$ 4,000
Equity interest in investee's unrealized gains on hedging derivatives, net of taxes	$ 20	$ 0

Accounts Payable and Accrued 60

Accounts Payable and Accrued Expenses (Details) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	Sep. 30, 2015	Sep. 30, 2014
Payables and Accruals [Abstract]
Accounts payable	$ 14,498	$ 12,990
Accrued compensation and benefits	17,534	17,963
Other accrued expenses	10,588	7,874
Accounts payable and accrued expenses, total	$ 42,620	$ 38,827

Income Taxes (Narrative) (Detai

Income Taxes (Narrative) (Details) $ in Millions	12 Months Ended
	Sep. 30, 2015USD ($)
Income Tax Disclosure [Abstract]
Statutory federal tax rate	35.00%
Deferred tax assets related to state net operating loss and credit carryforwards	$ 0.4
State
Operating Loss Carryforwards [Line Items]
Valuation allowances related to the state net operating loss carry-forwards	$ 0.4

Income Taxes (Components of Inc

Income Taxes (Components of Income Tax Expense) (Details) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	12 Months Ended
	Sep. 30, 2015	Sep. 30, 2014	Sep. 30, 2013
Components of income tax expense [Line Items]
Current Income Tax Expense (Benefit)	$ 3,862	$ 7,760	$ 6,807
Deferred Income Taxes	(5,394)	(4,050)	(3,794)
Income tax expense (benefit)	(1,532)	3,710	3,013
United States federal
Components of income tax expense [Line Items]
Current Income Tax Expense (Benefit)	2,819	6,425	5,317
Deferred Income Taxes	(5,109)	(3,923)	(3,500)
State
Components of income tax expense [Line Items]
Current Income Tax Expense (Benefit)	1,043	1,335	1,490
Deferred Income Taxes	$ (285)	$ (127)	$ (294)

Income Taxes (Reconciliation of

Income Taxes (Reconciliation of Tax Rate) (Details) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	12 Months Ended
	Sep. 30, 2015	Sep. 30, 2014	Sep. 30, 2013
Income Tax Disclosure [Abstract]
Income tax expense at statutory rate	$ (3,738)	$ 2,012	$ 2,419
State income taxes, net of federal tax benefit	393	697	504
Deferred tax asset write-off related to share based compensation	1,572	828	0
Other, net	241	173	90
Total provision for income taxes	$ (1,532)	$ 3,710	$ 3,013

Income Taxes (Components of Def

Income Taxes (Components of Deferred Tax Assets (Liabilities)) (Details) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	Sep. 30, 2015	Sep. 30, 2014
Gross deferred tax assets:
Deferred compensation	$ 1,784	$ 1,846
Reserves and accruals	5,395	8,847
Accrued tool sets	1,460	1,548
Deferred revenue	19,606	16,318
Deferred rent liability	1,939	2,539
Net operating loss carryovers	83	175
State tax credit carryforwards	310	319
Valuation allowance	(401)	(273)
Total deferred tax assets, net	30,176	31,319
Gross deferred tax liabilities:
Amortization of goodwill and intangibles	(3,140)	(8,026)
Depreciation and amortization of property and equipment	(421)	(2,536)
Prepaid expenses deductible for tax	(1,828)	(1,364)
Total deferred tax liabilities, net	(5,389)	(11,926)
Net deferred tax assets	$ 24,787	$ 19,393

Income Taxes (Summary of Valuat

Income Taxes (Summary of Valuation Allowance) (Details) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	12 Months Ended
	Sep. 30, 2015	Sep. 30, 2014	Sep. 30, 2013
Income Tax Disclosure [Abstract]
Balance at beginning of period	$ 273	$ 224	$ 80
Additions (reductions) to income tax expense	128	49	144
Write-offs	0	0	0
Balance at End of Period	$ 401	$ 273	$ 224

Commitments and Contingencies66

Commitments and Contingencies (Narrative) (Details) $ in Thousands	12 Months Ended
	Sep. 30, 2015USD ($)Campus	Sep. 30, 2014USD ($)	Sep. 30, 2013USD ($)
Commitments and Contingencies Disclosure [Abstract]
Number Of Campus Properties Leased From Related Party | Campus	1
Rent expense includes rent paid to related parties	$ 2,100	$ 2,300	$ 2,500
Minimum Balance to be maintained in credits earned on purchases	1,000
Net Prepaid Expenses from Excess of Credits Earned Over Credits Used	6,400	6,200
Accrued tool sets	3,624	3,806
Liability to vendor for vouchers redeemed by students	1,200	1,200
Severance agreement amount committed	$ 9,700
Maximum contribution per employee percentage of regular compensation	75.00%
Maximum contribution per employee percentage of incentive compensation	100.00%
Maximum contribution per non-employee percentage of cash compensation	100.00%
Deferred compensation contributions, vesting period	5 years
Obligation under the plan	$ 4,500	4,600
Cash Surrender Value of Life Insurance	5,000	4,700
Operating Leased Assets [Line Items]
Operating Leases, Rent Expense, Minimum Rentals	28,000	27,900	28,900
Maximum License costs over seven years	2,300
John C. and Cynthia L. White [Member]
Operating Leased Assets [Line Items]
Operating Leases, Rent Expense, Minimum Rentals	$ 300
Minimum Annual Rent Increase	4.00%
Delegates LLC [Member]
Operating Leased Assets [Line Items]
Operating Leases, Rent Expense, Minimum Rentals	$ 700
Minimum Annual Rent Increase	4.00%
Licensing Agreement 1 [Member]
Operating Leased Assets [Line Items]
License Costs	$ 1,100	1,000	1,100
Licensing Agreement 2 [Member]
Operating Leased Assets [Line Items]
Minimum Royalty Payments under Licensing Agreements	1,900
Decrease in Minimum Royalty Payments by Subsequent Year	1,600
License Costs	1,900	$ 1,800	$ 1,700
Increase in Minimum Royalty Payments by Subsequent Year	50
Licensing Agreement 3 [Member]
Operating Leased Assets [Line Items]
License Costs	$ 100
Minimum notification of intent to terminate agreement	90 days
Licensing Agreement Four [Member]
Operating Leased Assets [Line Items]
License Costs	$ 200
Surety Bond [Member]
Operating Leased Assets [Line Items]
Debt Instrument, Face Amount	19,000
Minimum [Member]
Operating Leased Assets [Line Items]
Employee agreement amount committed	$ 2,400
Severance agreement, term of benefits	6 months
Maximum [Member]
Operating Leased Assets [Line Items]
Employee agreement amount committed	$ 6,300
Severance agreement, term of benefits	12 months

Commitments and Contingencies67

Commitments and Contingencies (Future Minimum Rental Commitments) (Details) $ in Thousands	Sep. 30, 2015USD ($)
Commitments and Contingencies Disclosure [Abstract]
Operating Leases, Future Minimum Payments Due, Next Twelve Months, Gross	$ 27,901
Operating Leases, Future Minimum Payments Due, Future Minimum Sublease Rentals, due within	(321)
2,016	27,580
Operating Leases, Future Minimum Payments, Due in Two Years, Gross	27,457
Operating Leases, Future Minimum Payments Due, Future Min. Sublease Rentals, due in two years	(325)
Operating Leases, Income Statement, Sublease Revenue	0
2,017	27,132
Operating Leases, Future Minimum Payments, Due in Three Years, Gross	27,347
Operating Leases, Future Minimum Payments Due, Future Minimum Sublease Rentals, due in three years	(328)
2,018	27,019
Operating Leases, Future Minimum Payments, Due in Four Years, Gross	26,917
Operating Leases, Future Minimum Payments Due, Future Minimum Sublease Rentals, due in four years	(332)
2,019	26,585
Operating Leases, Future Minimum Payments, Due in Five Years, Gross	22,482
Operating Leases, Future Minimum Payments Due, Future Minimum Sublease Rentals, due in five years	(157)
2,020	22,325
Thereafter	46,272
Operating Leases, Future Minimum Payments Due, Gross Total	178,376
Operating Leases, Future Minimum Payments Due, Future Minimum Sublease Rentals	(1,463)
Operating Leases - Total	$ 176,913

Commitments and Contingencies L

Commitments and Contingencies Legal (Details)	3 Months Ended
	Sep. 30, 2015
Commitments and Contingencies Disclosure [Abstract]
Other Unrecorded Amounts	1.4

Common Shareholders' Equity (Na

Common Shareholders' Equity (Narrative) (Details)

Sep. 30, 2014$ / shares

Jun. 30, 2014$ / shares

Mar. 31, 2014$ / shares

Dec. 31, 2011plan

Feb. 28, 2003shares

Sep. 30, 2015USD ($)$ / sharesshares

Jun. 30, 2015$ / shares

Jun. 30, 2015$ / shares

Sep. 30, 2015USD ($)$ / sharesshares

Sep. 30, 2014USD ($)$ / shares

Sep. 30, 2013USD ($)$ / shares

Sep. 30, 2013USD ($)$ / sharesshares

Sep. 16, 2015USD ($)

Dec. 20, 2011USD ($)

Feb. 28, 2007shares

Apr. 01, 2002shares

Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award [Line Items]

Number of voting rights per share, common stock | $ / shares

$ 1

Common stock dividends declared, per share | $ / shares

$ 0.10

$ 0.10

$ 0.10

Cash dividend

$ 7,795,000

$ 9,875,000

$ 9,820,000

Dividends Payable

$ 0.02

Repurchase of common stock authorized by Board of Directors

$ 25,000,000

Purchased shares | shares

852,318

1,677,570

Average price per share | $ / shares

$ 7.73

$ 9.09

Aggregate cost of treasury stock repurchased during the period

$ 6,600,000

$ 15,300,000

Number of repurchase plan replaced by existing plan | plan

2

Common Stock [Member]

Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award [Line Items]

Cash dividend

$ 7,300,000

Two Thousand Two Plan [Member]

Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award [Line Items]

Issuance of options to purchase shares of common stock | shares

700,000

Number of additional shares authorized for issuance under an established share-based compensation plan | shares

100,000

Vesting period

4 years

Expiration date of options granted

10 years

Two Thousand Three Plan [Member]

Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award [Line Items]

Issuance of options to purchase shares of common stock | shares

5,300,000

Common stock reserved for issuance | shares

2,700,000

2,700,000

Available for future grant | shares

1,500,000

1,500,000

Termination Due to Death [Member] | Two Thousand Two Plan [Member]

Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award [Line Items]

Termination of the participant reason of death

1 year

Termination for reasons other than death, disability, cause, material breach or unsatisfactory performance [Member] | Two Thousand Two Plan [Member]

Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award [Line Items]

Termination of the participant reason other than death

30 days

Restricted Stock [Member]

Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award [Line Items]

Unrecognized stock compensation expense related to restricted stock awards

$ 2,700,000

$ 2,700,000

Recognized weighted average period

1 year 8 months

Awarded, Weighted Average Grant Date Fair Value per Share | $ / shares

$ 10.78

Fair Value Assumptions, Weighted Average Expected Dividend | $ / shares

0.10

Restricted Stock [Member] | Termination for reasons other than death, disability, cause, material breach or unsatisfactory performance [Member] | Two Thousand Three Plan [Member]

Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award [Line Items]

Vesting period

1 year

Restricted Stock Units (RSUs) [Member]

Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award [Line Items]

Unrecognized stock compensation expense related to restricted stock awards

$ 6,200,000

$ 6,200,000

Recognized weighted average period

2 years 1 month

Awarded, Weighted Average Grant Date Fair Value per Share | $ / shares

$ 4.49

$ 10.05

9.60

Fair Value Assumptions, Weighted Average Expected Dividend | $ / shares

$ 0.02

$ 0.10

$ 0.10

$ 0.10

Restricted Stock Units (RSUs) [Member] | Termination for reasons other than death, disability, cause, material breach or unsatisfactory performance [Member]

Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award [Line Items]

Vesting period

1 year

Minimum [Member] | Restricted Stock [Member]

Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award [Line Items]

Vesting period

4 years

Minimum [Member] | Restricted Stock Units (RSUs) [Member]

Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award [Line Items]

Vesting period

4 years

Maximum [Member] | Restricted Stock [Member]

Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award [Line Items]

Vesting period

5 years

Maximum [Member] | Restricted Stock Units (RSUs) [Member]

Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award [Line Items]

Vesting period

5 years

Common Shareholders' Equity (Su

Common Shareholders' Equity (Summary of Operating Expense Line and the Impact on Net Income) (Details) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	12 Months Ended
	Sep. 30, 2015	Sep. 30, 2014	Sep. 30, 2013
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award [Line Items]
Total stock-based compensation expense	$ 4,265	$ 5,721	$ 6,224
Income tax benefit	1,629	2,288	2,427
Educational Services and Facilities [Member]
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award [Line Items]
Total stock-based compensation expense	294	587	617
Selling, General and Administrative Expenses [Member]
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award [Line Items]
Total stock-based compensation expense	$ 3,971	$ 5,134	$ 5,607

Common Shareholders' Equity (Sh

Common Shareholders' Equity (Share-based Compensation Activity) (Details) - USD ($) $ / shares in Units, shares in Thousands, $ in Thousands	12 Months Ended
	Sep. 30, 2015	Sep. 30, 2014	Sep. 30, 2013
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award [Line Items]
Total stock-based compensation expense	$ 4,265	$ 5,721	$ 6,224
Restricted Stock [Member]
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Equity Instruments Other than Options, Nonvested, Number of Shares [Roll Forward]
Beginning Balance, Number of Shares	401
Vested, Number of Shares	(146)
Forfeited, Number of Shares	(37)
Ending Balance, Number of Shares	218	401
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Equity Instruments Other than Options, Nonvested, Weighted Average Grant Date Fair Value [Abstract]
Beginning Balance, Weighted Average Grant Date Fair Value per Share	$ 12.99
Awarded, Weighted Average Grant Date Fair Value per Share			$ 10.78
Vested, Weighted Average Grant Date Fair Value per Share	13.20
Forfeited, Weighted Average Grant Date Fair Value per Share	13.03
Ending Balance, Weighted Average Grant Date Fair Value per Share	$ 12.85	$ 12.99
Restricted Stock Units (RSUs) [Member]
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Equity Instruments Other than Options, Nonvested, Number of Shares [Roll Forward]
Beginning Balance, Number of Shares	673
Awarded, Number of Shares	568
Vested, Number of Shares	(188)
Forfeited, Number of Shares	(58)
Ending Balance, Number of Shares	995	673
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Equity Instruments Other than Options, Nonvested, Weighted Average Grant Date Fair Value [Abstract]
Beginning Balance, Weighted Average Grant Date Fair Value per Share	$ 9.76
Awarded, Weighted Average Grant Date Fair Value per Share	4.49	$ 10.05	$ 9.60
Vested, Weighted Average Grant Date Fair Value per Share	9.75
Forfeited, Weighted Average Grant Date Fair Value per Share	9.72
Ending Balance, Weighted Average Grant Date Fair Value per Share	$ 6.76	$ 9.76
Educational Services and Facilities [Member]
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award [Line Items]
Total stock-based compensation expense	$ 294	$ 587	$ 617

Earnings per Share (Narrative)

Earnings per Share (Narrative) (Details) - shares shares in Millions	12 Months Ended
	Sep. 30, 2014	Sep. 30, 2013
Earnings Per Share [Abstract]
Shares not included in the determination of our diluted shares outstanding as they were anti-dilutive	0.9	1.6

Earnings per Share (Calculation

Earnings per Share (Calculation of the Weighted Average Number of Shares Outstanding) (Details) - shares shares in Thousands	12 Months Ended
	Sep. 30, 2015	Sep. 30, 2014	Sep. 30, 2013
Weighted average number of shares
Basic shares outstanding	24,391	24,640	24,515
Dilutive effect related to employee stock plans	0	280	189
Diluted shares outstanding	24,391	24,920	24,704

Defined Contribution Employee74

Defined Contribution Employee Benefit Plan (Narrative) (Details) - USD ($) $ in Millions	12 Months Ended
	Sep. 30, 2015	Sep. 30, 2014	Sep. 30, 2013
Compensation and Retirement Disclosure [Abstract]
Defined Benefit Plan, Contributions by Employer	$ 0.2	$ 1.1	$ 1.2

Segment Information (Details)

Segment Information (Details) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	3 Months Ended								12 Months Ended
	Sep. 30, 2015	Jun. 30, 2015	Mar. 31, 2015	Dec. 31, 2014	Sep. 30, 2014	Jun. 30, 2014	Mar. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2013	Sep. 30, 2015	Sep. 30, 2014	Sep. 30, 2013
Revenues
Revenues	$ 90,653	$ 85,106	$ 91,235	$ 95,680	$ 95,313	$ 91,329	$ 94,711	$ 97,040	$ 362,674	$ 378,393	$ 380,322
Income (loss) from operations
Income (loss) from operations	(13,229)	(3,996)	2,402	5,600	3,880	1,011	(1,612)	3,058	(9,223)	6,337	6,025
Depreciation and amortization
Total Depreciation and Amortization									19,155	20,474
Net income (loss)
Net income (loss)	(9,823)	$ (2,975)	$ 555	$ 3,094	1,584	$ 366	$ (1,620)	$ 1,707	(9,149)	2,037	3,901
Goodwill
Goodwill	8,222				20,579				8,222	20,579	20,579
Assets
Total assets	274,302				288,069				274,302	288,069	280,194
Postsecondary education
Revenues
Revenues									350,682	367,630	371,717
Income (loss) from operations
Income (loss) from operations									(5,911)	9,045	8,455
Depreciation and amortization
Total Depreciation and Amortization									18,888	20,121	21,796
Net income (loss)
Net income (loss)									(7,477)	3,272	5,293
Goodwill
Goodwill	8,222				20,579				8,222	20,579	20,579
Assets
Total assets	266,922				282,529				266,922	282,529	272,909
Other
Revenues
Revenues									11,992	10,763	8,605
Income (loss) from operations
Income (loss) from operations									(3,312)	(2,708)	(2,430)
Depreciation and amortization
Total Depreciation and Amortization									267	353	360
Net income (loss)
Net income (loss)									(1,672)	(1,235)	(1,392)
Goodwill
Goodwill	0				0				0	0	0
Assets
Total assets	$ 7,380				$ 5,540				$ 7,380	$ 5,540	$ 7,285

Government Regulation and Fin76

Government Regulation and Financial Aid (Details)	12 Months Ended
	Sep. 30, 2015
Risks and Uncertainties [Abstract]
Percentage of cash basis revenue collected from funds distributed under Title IV programs	73.00%

Quarterly Financial Summary (77

Quarterly Financial Summary (Unaudited) (Details) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	3 Months Ended	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2014	Sep. 30, 2015	Sep. 30, 2014	Sep. 30, 2013
Goodwill impairment [Abstract]
Goodwill Impairment	$ 12,400	$ 12,357	$ 0	$ 0

Uncategorized Items - uti-20150

Label	Element	Value
Depreciation of training equipment obtained in exchange for services	uti_Depreciationoftrainingequipmentobtainedinexchangeforservices	$ 1,095
Depreciation of training equipment obtained in exchange for services	uti_Depreciationoftrainingequipmentobtainedinexchangeforservices	$ 1,215