Universal Technical Institute (UTI) 10-Q 2 Feb 17 2017 Q1 Quarterly report Financial data

Document and Entity Information

Document and Entity Information - USD ($)	3 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2016	Jan. 26, 2017	Mar. 31, 2016
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-Q
Document Period End Date	Dec. 31, 2016
Document Fiscal Year Focus	2,017
Document Fiscal Period Focus	Q1
Amendment Flag	false
Entity Common Stock, Shares Outstanding		24,625,591
Trading Symbol	UTI
Entity Well-known Seasoned Issuer	No
Entity Voluntary Filers	No
Entity Current Reporting Status	Yes
Entity Public Float			$ 91,700,000

CONSOLIDATED BALANCE SHEETS

CONSOLIDATED BALANCE SHEETS - USD ($) $ in Thousands	Dec. 31, 2016	Sep. 30, 2016
Current assets:
Cash and cash equivalents	$ 102,859	$ 119,045
Restricted cash	15,066	5,956
Investments, current portion	968	1,691
Receivables, net	10,223	15,253
Prepaid expenses and other current assets	20,479	20,004
Total current assets	149,595	161,949
Property and equipment, net	111,533	114,033
Goodwill	9,005	9,005
Other assets	12,040	12,172
Total assets	282,173	297,159
Current liabilities:
Accounts payable and accrued expenses	30,072	42,545
Dividends payable	1,323	0
Deferred revenue	42,208	44,491
Accrued tool sets	2,953	2,938
Financing obligation, current	959	913
Income tax payable	1,991	0
Other current liabilities	3,649	3,673
Total current liabilities	83,155	94,560
Deferred tax liabilities, net	3,141	3,141
Deferred rent liability	8,478	8,987
Financing obligation	42,881	43,141
Other liabilities	10,375	10,716
Total liabilities	148,030	160,545
Commitments and contingencies (Note 11)
Shareholders' equity:
Common stock, $0.0001 par value, 100,000,000 shares authorized, 31,490,488 shares issued and 24,625,591 shares outstanding as of December 31, 2016 and 31,489,331 shares issued and 24,624,434 shares outstanding as of September 30, 2016	3	3
Preferred stock, $0.0001 par value, 10,000,000 shares authorized; 700,000 shares of Series A Convertible Preferred Stock issued and outstanding as of December 31, 2016, liquidation preference of $100 per share, and 700,000 shares issued and outstanding as of September 30, 2016	0	0
Paid-in capital - common	183,161	182,615
Paid-in capital - preferred	68,853	68,820
Treasury stock, at cost, 6,864,897 shares as of December 31, 2016 and September 30, 2016	(97,388)	(97,388)
Retained deficit	(20,501)	(17,454)
Accumulated other comprehensive income	15	18
Total shareholders' equity	134,143	136,614
Total liabilities and shareholders' equity	$ 282,173	$ 297,159

CONSOLIDATED BALANCE SHEETS (Pa

CONSOLIDATED BALANCE SHEETS (Parenthetical) - $ / shares	Dec. 31, 2016	Sep. 30, 2016
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	31,490,488	31,489,331
Common stock, shares outstanding	24,625,591	24,624,434
Preferred stock, par value	$ 0.0001	$ 0.0001
Preferred stock, shares authorized	10,000,000	10,000,000
Preferred stock, shares issued	700,000	700,000
Preferred stock, shares outstanding	700,000	700,000
Treasury stock, at cost	6,864,897	6,864,897

CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED STATEMEN

CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF INCOME (LOSS) (UNAUDITED) - USD ($) shares in Thousands, $ in Thousands	3 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2016	Dec. 31, 2015
Income Statement [Abstract]
Revenues	$ 84,179	$ 89,773
Operating expenses:
Educational services and facilities	47,154	49,652
Selling, general and administrative	35,638	42,314
Total operating expenses	82,792	91,966
Income (loss) from operations	1,387	(2,193)
Other (expense) income:
Interest expense, net	(749)	(817)
Equity in earnings of unconsolidated affiliates	128	135
Other income	120	254
Total other expense, net	(501)	(428)
Income (loss) before income taxes	886	(2,621)
Income tax expense (benefit)	2,610	(941)
Net loss	(1,724)	(1,680)
Preferred stock dividends	1,323	0
Loss available for distribution	$ (3,047)	$ (1,680)
Earnings per share:
Net income (loss) per share - basic	$ (0.12)	$ (0.07)
Net income (loss) per share - diluted	$ (0.12)	$ (0.07)
Weighted average number of shares outstanding:
Basic	24,625	24,234
Diluted	24,625	24,234
Cash dividends declared per common share	$ 0	$ 0.02

CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED STATEME5

CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF COMPREHENSIVE INCOME (LOSS) (UNAUDITED) Statement - USD ($) $ in Thousands	3 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2016	Dec. 31, 2015
Net loss	$ (1,724)	$ (1,680)
Equity interest in investee's unrealized gains on hedging derivatives, net of taxes	(3)	(1)
Comprehensive loss	$ (1,727)	$ (1,681)

CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF SHAR

CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF SHAREHOLDERS' EQUITY - 3 months ended Dec. 31, 2016 - USD ($) shares in Thousands, $ in Thousands	Total	Paid-in Capital	Treasury Stock	Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss) [Member]	Retained Earnings	Common Stock	Series A Preferred Stock [Member]	Series A Preferred Stock [Member]Paid-in Capital
Beginning Balance, shares at Sep. 30, 2016			6,865			31,489	700
Beginning Balance at Sep. 30, 2016	$ 136,614	$ 182,615	$ (97,388)	$ 18	$ (17,454)	$ 3	$ 0	$ 68,820
Net loss	1,724				1,724
Issuance of Series A Convertible Preferred Stock							0
Issuance of Series A Preferred Convertible Stock							$ 0
Adjustments to Additional Paid in Capital, Increase in Carrying Amount of Redeemable Preferred Stock							$ 33	33
Issuance of common stock under employee plans, shares						2
Issuance of common stock under employee plans	0					$ 0
Shares withheld for payroll taxes, shares						(1)
Shares withheld for payroll taxes	(2)	(2)				$ 0
Stock-based compensation	548	548
Preferred stock cash dividends					(1,323)
Equity interest in investee's unrealized gains on hedging derivatives, net of taxes	(3)
Ending Balance, shares at Dec. 31, 2016			6,865			31,490	700
Ending Balance at Dec. 31, 2016	$ 134,143	$ 183,161	$ (97,388)	$ 15	$ (20,501)	$ 3	$ 0	$ 68,853

CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF CASH

CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF CASH FLOWS - USD ($) $ in Thousands	3 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2016	Dec. 31, 2015
Cash flows from operating activities:
Net loss	$ (1,724)	$ (1,680)
Depreciation and amortization	3,639	3,582
Amortization of assets subject to financing obligation	670	801
Amortization of held-to-maturity investments	3	199
Bad debt expense	249	482
Stock-based compensation	548	912
Deferred income taxes	0	342
Equity in earnings of unconsolidated affiliates	(128)	(135)
Training equipment credits earned, net	(246)	(100)
(Gain) loss on disposal of property and equipment	(16)	25
Changes in assets and liabilities:
Increase in Restricted Cash	11,147	123
Receivables	2,574	463
Prepaid expenses and other current assets	(362)	(1,492)
Other assets	0	(79)
Accounts payable and accrued expenses	(12,644)	(5,122)
Deferred revenue	(2,283)	1,610
Income tax payable/receivable	4,198	(2,714)
Accrued tool sets and other current liabilities	78	(104)
Deferred rent liability	(509)	(449)
Other liabilities	(304)	29
Net cash (used in) provided by operating activities	(17,404)	(3,553)
Cash flows from investing activities:
Purchase of property and equipment	(1,441)	(2,626)
Proceeds received upon maturity of investments	720	9,555
Proceeds from Collection of Notes Receivable	0
Change in note receivable		(250)
Capitalized costs for intangible assets	0	(250)
Return of capital contribution from unconsolidated affiliate	118	119
Restricted cash: proprietary loan program	2,037	1,151
Net cash provided by (used in) investing activities	1,434	7,699
Cash flows from financing activities:
Payment of cash dividend	0	(970)
Payments of financing obligation	(214)	(169)
Payment of payroll taxes on stock-based compensation through shares withheld	(2)	(2)
Net cash used in financing activities	(216)	(1,141)
Net increase (decrease) in cash and cash equivalents	(16,186)	3,005
Cash and cash equivalents, beginning of period	119,045	29,438
Cash and cash equivalents, end of period	102,859	32,443
Supplemental disclosure of cash flow information:
Taxes paid	(1,587)	1,431
Interest Paid	852	863
Training equipment obtained in exchange for services	346	533
Depreciation on training equipment obtained in exchange for services	330	302
Change in accrued capital expenditures during the period	204	1,589
Dividends payable	$ 1,323	$ 0

Business Description

Business Description	3 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2016
Organization, Consolidation and Presentation of Financial Statements [Abstract]
Business Description	Nature of the Business We are the leading provider of postsecondary education for students seeking careers as professional automotive, diesel, collision repair, motorcycle and marine technicians as measured by total average undergraduate full-time student enrollment and graduates. We offer undergraduate degree or diploma programs at 12 campuses across the United States under the banner of several well-known brands, including Universal Technical Institute, Motorcycle Mechanics Institute and Marine Mechanics Institute and NASCAR Technical Institute. We also offer manufacturer specific advanced training (MSAT) programs, including student-paid electives, at our campuses and manufacturer or dealer sponsored training at certain campuses and dedicated training centers. We work closely with leading original equipment manufacturers (OEMs) 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, as well as from various veterans benefits programs. For further discussion, see Note 2 "Summary of Significant Accounting Policies - Concentration of Risk" and Note 19 “Government Regulation and Financial Aid” included in our 2016 Annual Report on Form 10-K filed with the SEC on November 30, 2016.

Basis of Presentation (Notes)

Basis of Presentation (Notes)	3 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2016
Basis of Presentation [Abstract]
Basis of Presentation and Significant Accounting Policies [Text Block]	Basis of Presentation The accompanying unaudited condensed consolidated financial statements have been prepared in accordance with accounting principles generally accepted in the United States of America (GAAP) for interim financial information and the instructions to Form 10-Q and Article 10 of Regulation S-X. Accordingly, our condensed consolidated financial statements do not include all the information and footnotes required by GAAP for complete financial statements. Normal and recurring adjustments considered necessary for a fair statement of the results for the interim periods have been included. Operating results for the three months ended December 31, 2016 are not necessarily indicative of the results that may be expected for the year ending September 30, 2017. The accompanying condensed consolidated financial statements should be read in conjunction with the consolidated financial statements and notes thereto included in our 2016 Annual Report on Form 10-K filed with the SEC on November 30, 2016. The unaudited condensed consolidated financial statements include the accounts of Universal Technical Institute, Inc. and our wholly owned subsidiaries. All significant intercompany transactions and balances have been eliminated. The preparation of financial statements in conformity with GAAP requires us to make estimates and assumptions that affect the reported amounts of assets and liabilities, disclosure of contingent assets and liabilities at the date of the financial statements and the reported amounts of revenue and expenses during the reporting period. Actual results could differ from these estimates. Historically, we have calculated income tax expense for interim periods based on estimated annual effective tax rates. These rates have been derived, in part, from expected income before taxes for the year. However, authoritative accounting guidance indicates that companies should not apply the estimated annual tax rate to interim financial results if the estimated annual tax rate is not reliably predictable. We are not able to reasonably estimate the annual effective tax rate for the year ending September 30, 2017 because small fluctuations in our earnings before taxes could result in a material change in the estimated annual effective tax rate based on our current projections. Therefore, for the three months ended December 31, 2016, we calculated income taxes using the actual income tax rate for the respective periods. Restricted Cash Restricted cash includes 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. During the three months ended December 31, 2016, we renegotiated certain of the surety bonds that our insurers issue on behalf of our campuses and admissions representatives with multiple states, which are required to maintain authorization to conduct our business. As part of these negotiations, we collateralized $11.5 million in bonds, which is included in restricted cash in our condensed consolidated balance sheet. Changes in restricted cash that represent funds held for students or that result from changes in the collateralization required for surety bonds as described above are included in cash flows from operating activities on our condensed consolidated statements of cash flows because these restricted funds are related to the core activity of our operations.

Recent Accounting Pronouncement

Recent Accounting Pronouncements (Notes)	3 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2016
New Accounting Pronouncements and Changes in Accounting Principles [Abstract]
Description of New Accounting Pronouncements [Text Block]	Recent Accounting Pronouncements Recently Adopted Accounting Pronouncements In March 2016, the Financial Accounting Standards Board (FASB) issued guidance intended to simplify several areas of accounting for share-based compensation arrangements, including the income tax impact, classification on the statement of cash flows and forfeitures. The guidance is effective for annual periods, including interim periods within those periods, beginning after December 15, 2016, with early adoption permitted. We adopted this guidance as of October 1, 2016; the adoption had an immaterial impact on our results of operations, financial condition and financial statement disclosures. In April 2015, the FASB issued guidance related to customers' 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. We adopted the guidance prospectively as of October 1, 2016; the adoption had an immaterial impact on our results of operations, financial condition and financial statement disclosures. 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 adopted this guidance as of October 1, 2016; the adoption had no impact on our results of operations, financial condition or 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. We adopted this guidance as of October 1, 2016. The guidance had no impact on prior acquisitions. Recently Issued Accounting Pronouncements In January 2017, the FASB issued guidance which clarifies the definition of a business. The new standard is effective for fiscal years, and interim periods within those years, beginning after December 15, 2017. Early adoption is permitted and the standard is to be applied on a prospective basis to purchases or disposals of a business or an asset. We are currently evaluating the impact that the standard will have on our results of operations, financial condition and financial statement disclosures. In August 2016, the Financial Accounting Standards Board (FASB) issued guidance which clarifies how certain cash receipts and cash payments are presented and classified in the statement of cash flows. The new standard is effective for fiscal years, and interim periods within those years, beginning after December 15, 2017, and early adoption is permitted. We are currently evaluating the impact that the standard will have on our consolidated statements of cash flows. Further, in November 2016, the FASB issued guidance that requires restricted cash and cash equivalents to be included with cash and cash equivalents on the statement cash flows. The new standard is expected to be effective for fiscal years, and interim periods within those years, beginning after December 15, 2017, with early adoption permitted. Based on the restricted cash balances on our consolidated balance sheets, we expect this standard to have an impact on the presentation of our consolidated statements of cash flows. In June 2016, the FASB issued guidance which changes the methodology for measuring credit losses on financial instruments and the timing of when such losses are recorded. The guidance is effective for fiscal years, including interim periods within those years, beginning after December 15, 2019, with early adoption permitted. We are currently evaluating the impact that the standard will have on our results of operations, financial condition and financial statement disclosures. In February 2016, the FASB issued guidance requiring lessees to recognize a right-of-use asset and a lease liability on the balance sheet for substantially all leases, with the exception of short-term leases. Leases will be classified as either financing or operating, with classification affecting the pattern of expense recognition in the statement of income. The guidance is effective for annual periods, including interim periods within those periods, beginning after December 15, 2018, with early adoption permitted. We are currently evaluating the impact that the update will have on our results of operations, financial condition and financial statement disclosures. In January 2016, the FASB issued guidance related to the classification and measurement of financial instruments. The guidance primarily impacts the accounting for equity investments other than those accounted for using the equity method of accounting, financial liabilities under the fair value option and the presentation and disclosure requirements for financial instruments. Additionally, the FASB clarified guidance related to the valuation allowance assessment when recognizing deferred tax assets resulting from unrealized losses on available-for-sale debt securities. The accounting for other financial instruments, such as loans, investments in debt securities and financial liabilities is largely unchanged. The guidance is effective for annual periods, including interim periods within those periods, beginning after December 15, 2017 with early adoption permitted. 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. 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. In 2016, the FASB issued further guidance that offers narrow scope improvements and clarifies certain implementation issues related to revenue recognition, including principal versus agent considerations, the identification of performance obligations and licensing. These additional updates have the same effective date as the new revenue guidance. We have begun evaluating the potential impact to our various revenue streams and continue to evaluate the adoption methods and the impact that the update will have on our results of operations, financial condition and financial statement disclosures.

Postemployment Benefits (Notes)

Postemployment Benefits (Notes)	3 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2016
Postemployment Benefits [Abstract]
Postemployment Benefits Disclosure [Text Block]	Postemployment Benefits In September 2016, we completed a reduction in workforce impacting approximately 70 employees. In November 2016, we completed an additional reduction in workforce and provided postemployment benefits totaling approximately $1.3 million to approximately 75 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 November 2018. The postemployment benefit accrual activity for the year ended December 31, 2016 was as follows: Liability Balance at Postemployment Cash Paid Other Liability Balance at December 31, 2016 Severance $ 4,046 $ 1,259 $ (1,706 ) $ (257 ) $ 3,342 Other 189 114 (218 ) — 85 Total $ 4,235 $ 1,373 $ (1,924 ) $ (257 ) $ 3,427 (1) Primarily relates to the expiration of benefits not used within the time offered under the separation agreement and non-cash severance.

Investments

Investments	3 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2016
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 December 31, 2016 were as follows: Estimated Amortized Gross Unrealized Fair Market Cost Gains Losses Value Due in less than 1 year: Municipal bonds $ 221 $ — $ — $ 221 Certificates of deposit 747 — — 747 $ 968 $ — $ — $ 968 Amortized cost and fair value for investments classified as held-to-maturity at September 30, 2016 were as follows: Estimated Amortized Gross Unrealized Fair Market Cost Gains Losses Value Due in less than 1 year: Municipal bonds $ 744 $ — $ — $ 744 Corporate bonds 200 — — 200 Certificates of deposit 747 — — 747 $ 1,691 $ — $ — $ 1,691 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 condensed consolidated balance sheets and condensed consolidated statements of income (loss).

Fair Value Measurements

Fair Value Measurements	3 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2016
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 December 31, 2016 Quoted Prices Significant Significant Money market funds $ 97,271 $ 97,271 $ — $ — Municipal bonds 221 — 221 — Certificates of deposit 747 — 747 — Total assets at fair value on a recurring basis $ 98,239 $ 97,271 $ 968 $ — Fair Value Measurements Using September 30, 2016 Quoted Prices Significant Significant Money market funds $ 108,963 $ 108,963 $ — $ — Corporate bonds 200 200 — — Commercial Paper 2,501 — 2,501 — Municipal bonds 744 — 744 — Certificates of deposit 747 — 747 — Total assets at fair value on a recurring basis $ 113,155 $ 109,163 $ 3,992 $ — 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	3 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2016
Property, Plant and Equipment [Abstract]
Property and Equipment, net	Property and Equipment, net Property and equipment, net consisted of the following: Depreciable December 31, 2016 September 30, 2016 Land — $ 3,189 $ 3,189 Buildings and building improvements 30-35 78,862 78,870 Leasehold improvements 1-28 39,815 39,539 Training equipment 3-10 92,714 92,601 Office and computer equipment 3-10 38,065 37,688 Curriculum development 5 18,743 18,702 Software developed for internal use 3-5 11,905 11,905 Vehicles 5 1,283 1,228 Construction in progress — 2,794 2,195 287,370 285,917 Less accumulated depreciation and amortization (175,837 ) (171,884 ) $ 111,533 $ 114,033 The following amounts, which are included in the above table, represent assets financed by financing obligations resulting from the build-to-suit arrangements at our Lisle, Illinois and Long Beach, California campuses: December 31, 2016 September 30, 2016 Buildings and building improvements $ 45,816 $ 45,816 Less accumulated depreciation and amortization (6,832 ) (6,162 ) Assets financed by financing obligations, net $ 38,984 $ 39,654

Investment in Unconsolidated Af

Investment in Unconsolidated Affiliate (Notes)	3 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2016
Investment in Unconsolidated Affiliate [Abstract]
Equity Method Investments Disclosure [Text Block]	Investment in Unconsolidated Affiliates We have an equity interest in a joint venture related to the lease of our Lisle, Illinois campus facility (JV). 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 condensed consolidated balance sheets. We recognize our proportionate share of the net income or loss during each accounting period and any return of capital as a change in our investment. 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. Additionally, in February 2016, we made an investment in and entered into a licensing agreement with Pro-MECH Learning Systems, LLC (Pro-MECH), a company that provides comprehensive technician development programs and shop operations services. This investment, which included $0.7 million in cash as well as the conversion of a $0.3 million note receivable extended during the first quarter of 2016, resulted in our ownership of 25% of the outstanding equity interests of Pro-MECH. The $1.0 million investment was accounted for under the equity method of accounting. During the three months ended September 30, 2016, we determined that the carrying value of our investment was not recoverable and recorded a full impairment loss. Investment in unconsolidated affiliates consisted of the following: December 31, 2016 September 30, 2016 Carrying Value Ownership Percentage Carrying Value Ownership Percentage Investment in JV $ 4,043 27.972 % $ 4,036 27.972 % Investment in Pro-MECH $ — 25.000 % $ — 25.000 % Investment in unconsolidated affiliates included the following activity during the period: Three Months Ended December 31, 2016 2015 Balance at beginning of period $ 4,036 $ 3,986 Equity in earnings of unconsolidated affiliates 128 135 Return of capital contribution from unconsolidated affiliates (118 ) (119 ) Equity interest in investee's unrealized gains (losses) on hedging derivatives, net of taxes (3 ) (1 ) Balance at end of period $ 4,043 $ 4,001

Accounts Payable and Accrued Ex

Accounts Payable and Accrued Expenses	3 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2016
Payables and Accruals [Abstract]
Accounts Payable and Accrued Expenses	Accounts Payable and Accrued Expenses Accounts payable and accrued expenses consisted of the following: December 31, 2016 September 30, 2016 Accounts payable $ 6,390 $ 11,805 Accrued compensation and benefits 14,957 22,501 Other accrued expenses 8,725 8,239 $ 30,072 $ 42,545

Income Taxes (Notes)

Income Taxes (Notes)	3 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2016
Income Tax Disclosure [Abstract]
Income Tax Disclosure [Text Block]	Income Taxes Each reporting period, we estimate the likelihood that we will be able to recover our deferred tax assets, which represent timing differences in the recognition of revenue and certain tax deductions for accounting and tax purposes. The realization of deferred tax assets is dependent, in part, upon future taxable income. In assessing the need for a valuation allowance, we consider all available evidence, including our historical profitability and projections of future taxable income. If, based on the weight of available evidence, it is more likely than not the deferred tax assets will not be realized, we record a valuation allowance. Such valuation allowance is maintained on our deferred tax assets until sufficient positive evidence exists to support its reversal in future periods. The weight given to the positive and negative evidence is commensurate with the extent to which the evidence may be objectively verified. Significant judgment is required to determine if, and the extent to which, valuation allowances should be recorded against deferred tax assets. During the three months ended March 31, 2016, there were several pieces of negative evidence that contributed to our conclusion that a valuation allowance was appropriate against all deferred tax assets that rely upon future taxable income for their realization. As a result of our assessment, we recorded a full valuation allowance during the three months ended March 31, 2016. The amount of the deferred tax assets considered realizable, however, could be adjusted in future periods if estimates of future taxable income during the carryforward period are increased, if objective negative evidence in the form of cumulative losses is no longer present and if additional weight may be given to subjective evidence such as our projections for growth. We will continue to evaluate our valuation allowance in future periods for any change in circumstances that causes a change in judgment about the realizability of the deferred tax assets. Under Section 382 of the Internal Revenue Code, for income tax purposes only, we underwent a change in ownership as a result of a preferred stock issuance in June 2016 which is discussed in Note 12. Under the IRC, a change in ownership occurs when a five percent shareholder, as measured by ownership value, increases their ownership in a loss corporation by more than 50 percentage points during the defined testing period; both common and preferred stock are included in the determination of ownership value. Since the purchaser of the preferred stock acquired ownership exceeding 50 percent of our total ownership value, this transaction qualified as a change in ownership under section 382 of the IRC only. Accordingly, certain deductions and losses will be subject to an annual Section 382 limitation. The limitation will affect the timing of when these deductions and losses can be used and, in turn, will decrease or eliminate the amount of tax refund that we anticipate to receive by carrying back the losses that we may incur in future periods. The limitation may cause us to make income tax payments even if a pre-tax loss is recorded in future periods. The limitation may also cause the deductions and losses to expire unused. The components of income tax expense are as follows: Three Months Ended December 31, 2016 2015 Current expense (benefit) United States federal $ 2,227 $ (1,420 ) State 383 137 Total current expense (benefit) 2,610 (1,283 ) Deferred (benefit) expense United States federal — 439 State — (97 ) Total deferred (benefit) expense — 342 Total provision for income taxes $ 2,610 $ (941 ) The income tax provision differs from the tax that would result from application of the statutory federal tax rate of 35% to pre-tax income for the period. The reasons for the differences are as follows: Three Months Ended December 31, 2016 2015 Income tax expense (benefit) at statutory rate $ 310 $ (917 ) State income taxes (benefits), net of federal tax benefit 107 (8 ) Deferred tax asset write-off related to share based compensation — 5 Increase in valuation allowance 2,139 — Other, net 54 (21 ) Total income tax expense (benefit) $ 2,610 $ (941 ) The components of the deferred tax assets (liabilities) recorded in the accompanying consolidated balance sheets were as follows: December 31, September 30, 2016 2016 Gross deferred tax assets: Deferred compensation $ 2,064 $ 2,083 Reserves and accruals 5,410 5,417 Accrued tool sets 1,198 1,188 Deferred revenue 23,747 22,326 Deferred rent liability 1,033 1,213 Depreciation and amortization of property and equipment 1,517 684 Charitable contribution carryovers 595 671 Deductions limited by Section 382 714 592 Net operating losses and tax credit carryforwards 380 479 Valuation allowance (34,941 ) (32,828 ) Total gross deferred tax assets 1,717 1,825 Gross deferred tax liabilities: Amortization of goodwill (3,141 ) (3,141 ) Prepaid and other expenses deductible for tax (1,717 ) (1,825 ) Total gross deferred tax liabilities (4,858 ) (4,966 ) Net deferred tax assets (liabilities) $ (3,141 ) $ (3,141 ) The following table summarizes the activity for the valuation allowance for the three months ended December 31, 2016: Balance at Additions to Income Write-offs Balance at End of $ 32,828 $ 2,139 $ (26 ) $ 34,941

Commitments and Contingencies

Commitments and Contingencies	3 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2016
Commitments and Contingencies Disclosure [Abstract]
Commitments and Contingencies	Commitments and Contingencies 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 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 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 requested and we provided in April 2015 additional documents and information related to graduate employment at our Norwood, Massachusetts campus and our policies and practices for determining graduate employment. We have not received any additional requests since April 2015. 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 condensed consolidated financial statements. 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 condensed 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 $0.4 million and $0.5 million for each of the three months ended December 31, 2016 and 2015, respectively. Since loan collectability is not reasonably assured, the loans and related deferred tuition revenue are not recognized in our condensed consolidated balance sheets. The following table summarizes the impact of the proprietary loan program on our tuition revenue and interest income during the period as well as on a cumulative basis at the end of each period in our condensed consolidated statements of income (loss). 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. Three Months Ended December 31, Inception 2016 2015 Tuition and interest income excluded $ 5,992 $ 6,646 $ 148,707 Amounts collected and recognized (1,833 ) (1,535 ) (22,918 ) Net amount excluded during the period $ 4,159 $ 5,111 $ 125,789 As of December 31, 2016 , we had committed to provide loans to our students for approximately $144.0 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 condensed 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 condensed consolidated statements of income (loss). Three Months Ended December 31, 2016 2015 Balance at beginning of period $ 75,511 $ 74,664 Loans extended 6,248 8,283 Interest accrued 1,010 916 Amounts collected and recognized (1,833 ) (1,535 ) Amounts written off (4,353 ) (3,652 ) Balance at end of period $ 76,583 $ 78,676

Shareholders' Equity

Shareholders' Equity	3 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2016
Equity [Abstract]
Common Shareholders’ Equity	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 June 9, 2016, our Board of Directors voted to eliminate the quarterly cash dividend on our common stock. Any future common stock dividends require the approval of a majority of the voting power of the Series A Preferred Stock. Preferred Stock Preferred Stock consists of 10,000,000 authorized preferred shares of $0.0001 par value each. As of December 31, 2016 and September 30, 2016, 700,000 shares of Series A Convertible Preferred Stock (Series A Preferred Stock) were issued and outstanding. The liquidation preference associated with the Series A Preferred Stock was $100 per share at December 31, 2016. Pursuant to the terms of the Securities Purchase Agreement, we may pay a cash dividend on each share of the Series A Preferred Stock at a rate of 7.5% per year on the liquidation preference then in effect (Cash Dividend). If we do not pay a Cash Dividend, the liquidation preference shall be increased to an amount equal to the current liquidation preference in effect plus an amount reflecting that liquidation preference multiplied by the Cash Dividend rate then in effect plus 2.0% per year (Accrued Dividend). Cash Dividends are payable semi-annually in arrears on September 30 and March 31 of each year, and begin to accrue on the first day of the applicable dividend period. We accrued Cash Dividends of $1.3 million at December 31, 2016. 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. We did not repurchase shares during the three months ended December 31, 2016. As of December 31, 2016 , 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. Under the terms of the Purchase Agreement, stock purchases under this program require the approval of a majority of the voting power of the Series A Preferred Stock. Stockholder Rights Agreement On June 29, 2016, our Board of Directors authorized the adoption of a stockholder Rights Agreement to protect against any potential future use of coercive or abusive takeover techniques and to ensure that our stockholders are not deprived of the opportunity to realize the full and fair value of their investment. This agreement, which expires on June 28, 2017 , mitigates the risk of any person or group from acquiring beneficial ownership of 15% or more of our outstanding common stock, or, in the case of any person or group that already owns 15% or more of the outstanding common stock, an additional 0.25%. Under this agreement, our Board of Directors declared a dividend of one preferred stock purchase right for each outstanding share of common stock, payable to holders of record as of the close of business on July 11, 2016. Each right, which is exercisable only in the event of potential takeover, initially entitles the holder to purchase one one-thousandth of a share of a newly authorized series of participating preferred stock designated as Series E Junior Participating Preferred Stock , with a par value of $0.0001 per share and a purchase price of $9.00 per share, subject to adjustment. Each share of Series E Junior Participating Preferred Stock shall entitle the holder to 1,000 votes on all matters submitted to a vote of our stockholders.

Earnings per Share

Earnings per Share	3 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2016
Earnings Per Share [Abstract]
Earnings per Share	Earnings per Share Basic net income (loss) per share has historically been calculated by dividing net income (loss) attributable to common stock by the weighted average number of common shares outstanding for the period. Our Series A Preferred Stock is considered a participating security because, in the event that we pay a dividend or make a distribution on the outstanding common stock, we shall also pay each holder of the Series A Preferred Stock a dividend on an as-converted basis. As such, for periods subsequent to the issuance of the Series A Preferred Stock, which occurred on June 24, 2016, we calculated basic earnings per share pursuant to the two-class method. The two-class method is an earnings allocation formula that determines earnings per share for common stock and participating securities according to dividend and participation rights in undistributed earnings. Under this method, all earnings, distributed and undistributed, are allocated to common shares and participating securities based on their respective rights to receive dividends. The Series A Preferred Stock is not included in the computation of basic income (loss) per share in periods in which we have a net loss, as the Series A Preferred Stock is not contractually obligated to share in our net losses. Accordingly, the two-class method was not applicable for the three months ended December 31, 2016. Diluted net income per share is calculated using the more dilutive of the as-converted or the two-class method. The two-class method assumes conversion of all potential shares other than the participating securities. Dilutive potential common shares include outstanding stock options, unvested restricted share awards and units and convertible preferred stock. The basic and diluted net income (loss) amounts are the same for the three months ended December 31, 2016 and for the three months ended December 31, 2015 as a result of the potentially dilutive securities being antidilutive due to a net loss. The following table summarizes the computation of basic and diluted income (loss) per share under the as-converted method: Three Months Ended December 31, 2016 2015 (In thousands) Loss available for distribution $ (3,047 ) $ (1,680 ) Weighted average number of shares Basic shares outstanding 24,625 24,234 Dilutive effect related to employee stock plans — — Diluted shares outstanding 24,625 24,234 Net loss per share - basic $ (0.12 ) $ (0.07 ) Net loss per share - diluted $ (0.12 ) $ (0.07 ) The following table summarizes the potential weighted average shares of common stock that were excluded from the determination of our diluted shares outstanding as they were anti-dilutive: Three Months Ended December 31, 2016 2015 (In thousands) Outstanding stock-based grants 665 817 Convertible preferred stock 21,021 — 21,686 817

Segment Information

Segment Information	3 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2016
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. Our equity method investments and other non-Postsecondary Education operations are also included within 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 a financing obligation. Summary information by reportable segment is as follows: Three Months Ended December 31, 2016 2015 Revenues Postsecondary Education $ 80,544 $ 86,665 Other 3,635 3,108 Consolidated $ 84,179 $ 89,773 Income (loss) from operations Postsecondary Education $ 2,097 $ (1,216 ) Other (710 ) (977 ) Consolidated $ 1,387 $ (2,193 ) Depreciation and amortization (1) Postsecondary Education $ 4,208 $ 4,320 Other 101 63 Consolidated $ 4,309 $ 4,383 Net income (loss) Postsecondary Education $ (1,546 ) $ (1,172 ) Other (178 ) (508 ) Consolidated $ (1,724 ) $ (1,680 ) December 31, 2016 September 30, 2016 Goodwill Postsecondary Education $ 8,222 $ 8,222 Other 783 783 Consolidated $ 9,005 $ 9,005 Total assets Postsecondary Education $ 274,437 $ 289,688 Other 7,736 7,471 Consolidated $ 282,173 $ 297,159 (1) Excludes depreciation of training equipment obtained in exchange for services of $0.3 million and $0.3 million for the three months ended December 31, 2016 and 2015, respectively.

Government Regulation and Finan

Government Regulation and Financial Aid (Notes)	3 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2016
Government Regulation and Financial Aid [Abstract]
Government Regulation And Financial Aid [Text Block]	Government Regulation and Financial Aid State Authorization and Regulation On December 16, 2016, the Massachusetts Division of Professional Licensure published disclosure and business practice regulations applicable to proprietary schools operating in or recruiting from Massachusetts. As published, certain of the regulations are effective immediately and others become effective through January 1, 2018. The disclosure obligations under the new regulations are similar to those currently required by Massachusetts. The regulations also require various business practice changes including, among other items, ethics training for admissions representatives, creation of program outlines separate from existing catalogs, changes to refund requirements for students who begin school with pending financial aid and changes to enrollment agreements to reflect the refund policy change. We are working to comply with the various regulations. Accreditation As of September 30, 2016, two programs in the automotive and automotive/diesel/industrial divisions at our Rancho Cucamonga, California campus did not achieve the graduation benchmarks set by the Accrediting Commission of Career Schools and Colleges and were placed on outcomes reporting. We plan to begin offering our Automotive Technology and Diesel Technology II curricula at this campus in 2017, subject to approval by state regulators; as part of this rollout, the below-benchmark programs will be discontinued. Regulation of Federal Student Financial Aid Programs On January 9, 2017, the Department of Education (ED) issued to our schools final versions of the first set of debt to earnings rates under the new gainful employment rule. The final rates were consistent with the draft rates previously discussed in our 2016 Annual Report on Form 10-K filed with the SEC on November 30, 2016, with nine of our 12 educational programs achieving passing rates and the other three programs in the zone. On December 6, 2016, we were advised by ED that our applications for Title IV program participation recertification with respect to our Universal Technical Institute of Arizona and Universal Technical Institute of Phoenix institutions had been processed. The Universal Technical Institute of Arizona institution has received its program participation agreement which places the institution on provisional certification until March 31, 2018, based on an open ED program review from April 2015 for which we have not yet received a report. As a result of the institution's placement on provisional certification, ED requires that we apply for and receive approval prior to awarding or disbursing Title IV aid for any new locations or new programs. We were advised to expect a standard, non-provisional program participation agreement for the Universal Technical Institute of Phoenix institution with an expiration date of March 31, 2018, and we are currently awaiting the new agreement. This timeframe has been designed to allow for participation alignment of all three of our institutions, as our Universal Technical Institute of Texas institution is also set to expire on March 31, 2018. We will submit recertification applications for all of our institutions in December 2017 as required. On November 1, 2016, ED published final regulations establishing new rules regarding, among other things, the ability of borrowers to obtain discharges of their obligations to repay certain Title IV loans and for ED to initiate a proceeding to collect from the institution the discharged and returned amounts and the extensive list of circumstances that may require institutions to provide letters of credit or other financial protection to ED. The new regulations have a general effective date of July 1, 2017.

Postemployment Benefits (Tables

Postemployment Benefits (Tables)	3 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2016
Postemployment Benefits [Abstract]
Postemployment activity	The postemployment benefit accrual activity for the year ended December 31, 2016 was as follows: Liability Balance at Postemployment Cash Paid Other Liability Balance at December 31, 2016 Severance $ 4,046 $ 1,259 $ (1,706 ) $ (257 ) $ 3,342 Other 189 114 (218 ) — 85 Total $ 4,235 $ 1,373 $ (1,924 ) $ (257 ) $ 3,427

Investments (Tables)

Investments (Tables)	3 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2016
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 December 31, 2016 were as follows: Estimated Amortized Gross Unrealized Fair Market Cost Gains Losses Value Due in less than 1 year: Municipal bonds $ 221 $ — $ — $ 221 Certificates of deposit 747 — — 747 $ 968 $ — $ — $ 968 Amortized cost and fair value for investments classified as held-to-maturity at September 30, 2016 were as follows: Estimated Amortized Gross Unrealized Fair Market Cost Gains Losses Value Due in less than 1 year: Municipal bonds $ 744 $ — $ — $ 744 Corporate bonds 200 — — 200 Certificates of deposit 747 — — 747 $ 1,691 $ — $ — $ 1,691

Fair Value Measurements (Tables

Fair Value Measurements (Tables)	3 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2016
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 December 31, 2016 Quoted Prices Significant Significant Money market funds $ 97,271 $ 97,271 $ — $ — Municipal bonds 221 — 221 — Certificates of deposit 747 — 747 — Total assets at fair value on a recurring basis $ 98,239 $ 97,271 $ 968 $ — Fair Value Measurements Using September 30, 2016 Quoted Prices Significant Significant Money market funds $ 108,963 $ 108,963 $ — $ — Corporate bonds 200 200 — — Commercial Paper 2,501 — 2,501 — Municipal bonds 744 — 744 — Certificates of deposit 747 — 747 — Total assets at fair value on a recurring basis $ 113,155 $ 109,163 $ 3,992 $ —

Property and Equipment, net (Ta

Property and Equipment, net (Tables)	3 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2016
Property, Plant and Equipment [Abstract]
Property and equipment, net	Property and equipment, net consisted of the following: Depreciable December 31, 2016 September 30, 2016 Land — $ 3,189 $ 3,189 Buildings and building improvements 30-35 78,862 78,870 Leasehold improvements 1-28 39,815 39,539 Training equipment 3-10 92,714 92,601 Office and computer equipment 3-10 38,065 37,688 Curriculum development 5 18,743 18,702 Software developed for internal use 3-5 11,905 11,905 Vehicles 5 1,283 1,228 Construction in progress — 2,794 2,195 287,370 285,917 Less accumulated depreciation and amortization (175,837 ) (171,884 ) $ 111,533 $ 114,033
Assets financed by financing obligations	The following amounts, which are included in the above table, represent assets financed by financing obligations resulting from the build-to-suit arrangements at our Lisle, Illinois and Long Beach, California campuses: December 31, 2016 September 30, 2016 Buildings and building improvements $ 45,816 $ 45,816 Less accumulated depreciation and amortization (6,832 ) (6,162 ) Assets financed by financing obligations, net $ 38,984 $ 39,654

Investment in Unconsolidated 27

Investment in Unconsolidated Affiliate (Tables)	3 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2016
Investment in Unconsolidated Affiliate [Abstract]
Equity Method Investments [Table Text Block]	Investment in unconsolidated affiliates consisted of the following: December 31, 2016 September 30, 2016 Carrying Value Ownership Percentage Carrying Value Ownership Percentage Investment in JV $ 4,043 27.972 % $ 4,036 27.972 % Investment in Pro-MECH $ — 25.000 % $ — 25.000 % Investment in unconsolidated affiliates included the following activity during the period: Three Months Ended December 31, 2016 2015 Balance at beginning of period $ 4,036 $ 3,986 Equity in earnings of unconsolidated affiliates 128 135 Return of capital contribution from unconsolidated affiliates (118 ) (119 ) Equity interest in investee's unrealized gains (losses) on hedging derivatives, net of taxes (3 ) (1 ) Balance at end of period $ 4,043 $ 4,001

Accounts Payable and Accrued 28

Accounts Payable and Accrued Expenses (Tables)	3 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2016
Payables and Accruals [Abstract]
Accounts payable and accrued expenses	Accounts payable and accrued expenses consisted of the following: December 31, 2016 September 30, 2016 Accounts payable $ 6,390 $ 11,805 Accrued compensation and benefits 14,957 22,501 Other accrued expenses 8,725 8,239 $ 30,072 $ 42,545

Income Taxes (Tables)

Income Taxes (Tables)	3 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2016
Income Tax Disclosure [Abstract]
Schedule of Components of Income Tax Expense (Benefit) [Table Text Block]	The components of income tax expense are as follows: Three Months Ended December 31, 2016 2015 Current expense (benefit) United States federal $ 2,227 $ (1,420 ) State 383 137 Total current expense (benefit) 2,610 (1,283 ) Deferred (benefit) expense United States federal — 439 State — (97 ) Total deferred (benefit) expense — 342 Total provision for income taxes $ 2,610 $ (941 )
Schedule of Effective Income Tax Rate Reconciliation [Table Text Block]	The income tax provision differs from the tax that would result from application of the statutory federal tax rate of 35% to pre-tax income for the period. The reasons for the differences are as follows: Three Months Ended December 31, 2016 2015 Income tax expense (benefit) at statutory rate $ 310 $ (917 ) State income taxes (benefits), net of federal tax benefit 107 (8 ) Deferred tax asset write-off related to share based compensation — 5 Increase in valuation allowance 2,139 — Other, net 54 (21 ) Total income tax expense (benefit) $ 2,610 $ (941 )
Schedule of Deferred Tax Assets and Liabilities [Table Text Block]	The components of the deferred tax assets (liabilities) recorded in the accompanying consolidated balance sheets were as follows: December 31, September 30, 2016 2016 Gross deferred tax assets: Deferred compensation $ 2,064 $ 2,083 Reserves and accruals 5,410 5,417 Accrued tool sets 1,198 1,188 Deferred revenue 23,747 22,326 Deferred rent liability 1,033 1,213 Depreciation and amortization of property and equipment 1,517 684 Charitable contribution carryovers 595 671 Deductions limited by Section 382 714 592 Net operating losses and tax credit carryforwards 380 479 Valuation allowance (34,941 ) (32,828 ) Total gross deferred tax assets 1,717 1,825 Gross deferred tax liabilities: Amortization of goodwill (3,141 ) (3,141 ) Prepaid and other expenses deductible for tax (1,717 ) (1,825 ) Total gross deferred tax liabilities (4,858 ) (4,966 ) Net deferred tax assets (liabilities) $ (3,141 ) $ (3,141 )
Schedule of Valuation and Qualifying Accounts Disclosure [Text Block]	The following table summarizes the activity for the valuation allowance for the three months ended December 31, 2016: Balance at Additions to Income Write-offs Balance at End of $ 32,828 $ 2,139 $ (26 ) $ 34,941

Commitments and Contingencies (

Commitments and Contingencies (Tables)	3 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2016
Commitments and Contingencies Disclosure [Abstract]
Impact Of Proprietary Loan Program On Our Tuition Revenue And Interest Income Table [Text Block]	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 condensed 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 condensed consolidated statements of income (loss). Three Months Ended December 31, 2016 2015 Balance at beginning of period $ 75,511 $ 74,664 Loans extended 6,248 8,283 Interest accrued 1,010 916 Amounts collected and recognized (1,833 ) (1,535 ) Amounts written off (4,353 ) (3,652 ) Balance at end of period $ 76,583 $ 78,676
Activity Related To Balances Outstanding Under Our Proprietary Loan Program Table [Text Block]	The following table summarizes the impact of the proprietary loan program on our tuition revenue and interest income during the period as well as on a cumulative basis at the end of each period in our condensed consolidated statements of income (loss). 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. Three Months Ended December 31, Inception 2016 2015 Tuition and interest income excluded $ 5,992 $ 6,646 $ 148,707 Amounts collected and recognized (1,833 ) (1,535 ) (22,918 ) Net amount excluded during the period $ 4,159 $ 5,111 $ 125,789

Earnings per Share (Tables)

Earnings per Share (Tables)	3 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2016
Antidilutive Securities Excluded from Computation of Earnings Per Share [Line Items]
Schedule of Antidilutive Securities Excluded from Computation of Earnings Per Share [Table Text Block]	The following table summarizes the potential weighted average shares of common stock that were excluded from the determination of our diluted shares outstanding as they were anti-dilutive: Three Months Ended December 31, 2016 2015 (In thousands) Outstanding stock-based grants 665 817 Convertible preferred stock 21,021 — 21,686 817
Summary of Calculation of Weighted Average Number of Shares Outstanding Used in Computing Basic and Diluted Net Income Loss Per Share	The following table summarizes the computation of basic and diluted income (loss) per share under the as-converted method: Three Months Ended December 31, 2016 2015 (In thousands) Loss available for distribution $ (3,047 ) $ (1,680 ) Weighted average number of shares Basic shares outstanding 24,625 24,234 Dilutive effect related to employee stock plans — — Diluted shares outstanding 24,625 24,234 Net loss per share - basic $ (0.12 ) $ (0.07 ) Net loss per share - diluted $ (0.12 ) $ (0.07 )

Segment Information (Tables)

Segment Information (Tables)	3 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2016
Segment Reporting [Abstract]
Summary of Information by Reportable Segment	Summary information by reportable segment is as follows: Three Months Ended December 31, 2016 2015 Revenues Postsecondary Education $ 80,544 $ 86,665 Other 3,635 3,108 Consolidated $ 84,179 $ 89,773 Income (loss) from operations Postsecondary Education $ 2,097 $ (1,216 ) Other (710 ) (977 ) Consolidated $ 1,387 $ (2,193 ) Depreciation and amortization (1) Postsecondary Education $ 4,208 $ 4,320 Other 101 63 Consolidated $ 4,309 $ 4,383 Net income (loss) Postsecondary Education $ (1,546 ) $ (1,172 ) Other (178 ) (508 ) Consolidated $ (1,724 ) $ (1,680 ) December 31, 2016 September 30, 2016 Goodwill Postsecondary Education $ 8,222 $ 8,222 Other 783 783 Consolidated $ 9,005 $ 9,005 Total assets Postsecondary Education $ 274,437 $ 289,688 Other 7,736 7,471 Consolidated $ 282,173 $ 297,159 (1) Excludes depreciation of training equipment obtained in exchange for services of $0.3 million and $0.3 million for the three months ended December 31, 2016 and 2015, respectively.

Business Description (Narrative

Business Description (Narrative) (Details)	Dec. 31, 2016Campus
Organization, Consolidation and Presentation of Financial Statements [Abstract]
Number of campuses through which undergraduate degree, diploma and certificate programs are offered	12

Postemployment Benefits Narrati

Postemployment Benefits Narrative (Details) $ in Thousands	1 Months Ended		3 Months Ended
	Nov. 30, 2016USD ($)employees	Sep. 30, 2016employees	Dec. 31, 2016USD ($)
Schedule Of Postemployment Benefits [Line Items]
Number Of Impacted Employees Due To Reduction In Workforce | employees	75	70
Postemployment Benefits, Period Expense | $	$ 1,300		$ 1,373
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

Postemployment Benefits (Detail

Postemployment Benefits (Details) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	1 Months Ended	3 Months Ended
	Nov. 30, 2016	Dec. 31, 2016
Postemployment Benefits Disclosure [Line Items]
Beginning Balance Postemployment Benefits Liability		$ 4,235
Postemployment Benefits, Period Expense	$ 1,300	1,373
Payments for Postemployment Benefits		(1,924)
Post Employment Benefits Other Non Cash Settlement, Increase (Decrease)		(257)
Ending Balance Postemployment Benefits Liability		3,427
Severance [Member]
Postemployment Benefits Disclosure [Line Items]
Beginning Balance Postemployment Benefits Liability		4,046
Postemployment Benefits, Period Expense		1,259
Payments for Postemployment Benefits		(1,706)
Post Employment Benefits Other Non Cash Settlement, Increase (Decrease)		(257)
Ending Balance Postemployment Benefits Liability		3,342
Other [Member]
Postemployment Benefits Disclosure [Line Items]
Beginning Balance Postemployment Benefits Liability		189
Postemployment Benefits, Period Expense		114
Payments for Postemployment Benefits		(218)
Post Employment Benefits Other Non Cash Settlement, Increase (Decrease)		0
Ending Balance Postemployment Benefits Liability		$ 85

Investments (Amortized Cost and

Investments (Amortized Cost and Fair Value of Held to Maturity Investments) (Details) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	Dec. 31, 2016	Sep. 30, 2016
Schedule of Held-to-maturity Securities [Line Items]
Amortized Cost	$ 968	$ 1,691
Gross Unrealized Gains	0	0
Gross Unrealized Losses	0	0
Estimated Fair Market Value	968	1,691
Municipal bonds, due in less than 1 year
Schedule of Held-to-maturity Securities [Line Items]
Amortized Cost	221	744
Gross Unrealized Gains	0	0
Gross Unrealized Losses	0	0
Estimated Fair Market Value	221	744
Corporate bonds, due in less than 1 year
Schedule of Held-to-maturity Securities [Line Items]
Amortized Cost		200
Gross Unrealized Gains		0
Gross Unrealized Losses		0
Estimated Fair Market Value		200
Certificates of deposit, due in less than 1 year
Schedule of Held-to-maturity Securities [Line Items]
Amortized Cost	747	747
Gross Unrealized Gains	0	0
Gross Unrealized Losses	0	0
Estimated Fair Market Value	$ 747	$ 747

Fair Value Measurements (Assets

Fair Value Measurements (Assets Measured at Fair Value on a Recurring Basis) (Details) - Fair Value, Measurements, Recurring - USD ($) $ in Thousands	Dec. 31, 2016	Sep. 30, 2016
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	$ 97,271	$ 109,163
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	97,271	108,963
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		200
Quoted Prices in Active Markets for Identical Assets (Level 1) | Commercial Paper [Member]
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring Basis [Line Items]
Total assets at fair value on a recurring basis		0
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	968	3,992
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
Significant Other Observable Inputs (Level 2) | Commercial Paper [Member]
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring Basis [Line Items]
Total assets at fair value on a recurring basis		2,501
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	221	744
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	747	747
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
Significant Unobservable Inputs (Level 3) | Commercial Paper [Member]
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring Basis [Line Items]
Total assets at fair value on a recurring basis		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
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	98,239	113,155
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	97,271	108,963
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		200
Estimate of Fair Value Measurement [Member] | Commercial Paper [Member]
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring Basis [Line Items]
Total assets at fair value on a recurring basis		2,501
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	221	744
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	$ 747	$ 747

Property and Equipment, net (Na

Property and Equipment, net (Narrative) (Details) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	Dec. 31, 2016	Sep. 30, 2016
Property, Plant and Equipment [Line Items]
Financing obligation, current	$ 959	$ 913
Buildings and Building Improvements [Member]
Property, Plant and Equipment [Line Items]
Buildings and building improvements	$ 45,816	45,816
Buildings and Building Improvements [Member] | Orlando Florida Campus
Property, Plant and Equipment [Line Items]
Financing obligation, current

Property and Equipment, net (De

Property and Equipment, net (Details) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	3 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2016	Sep. 30, 2016
Property, Plant and Equipment [Line Items]
Property and equipment, gross	$ 287,370	$ 285,917
Less accumulated depreciation and amortization	(175,837)	(171,884)
Property and equipment, net	111,533	114,033
Land [Member]
Property, Plant and Equipment [Line Items]
Property and equipment, gross	3,189	3,189
Buildings and Building Improvements [Member]
Property, Plant and Equipment [Line Items]
Property and equipment, gross	$ 78,862	78,870
Buildings and Building Improvements [Member] | Minimum [Member]
Property, Plant and Equipment [Line Items]
Depreciable Lives	30 years
Buildings and Building Improvements [Member] | Maximum [Member]
Property, Plant and Equipment [Line Items]
Depreciable Lives	35 years
Leasehold improvements [Member]
Property, Plant and Equipment [Line Items]
Property and equipment, gross	$ 39,815	39,539
Leasehold improvements [Member] | Minimum [Member]
Property, Plant and Equipment [Line Items]
Depreciable Lives	1 year
Leasehold improvements [Member] | Maximum [Member]
Property, Plant and Equipment [Line Items]
Depreciable Lives	28 years
Training equipment [Member]
Property, Plant and Equipment [Line Items]
Property and equipment, gross	$ 92,714	92,601
Training equipment [Member] | Minimum [Member]
Property, Plant and Equipment [Line Items]
Depreciable Lives	3 years
Training equipment [Member] | Maximum [Member]
Property, Plant and Equipment [Line Items]
Depreciable Lives	10 years
Office and computer equipment [Member]
Property, Plant and Equipment [Line Items]
Property and equipment, gross	$ 38,065	37,688
Office and computer equipment [Member] | Minimum [Member]
Property, Plant and Equipment [Line Items]
Depreciable Lives	3 years
Office and computer equipment [Member] | Maximum [Member]
Property, Plant and Equipment [Line Items]
Depreciable Lives	10 years
Curriculum development [Member]
Property, Plant and Equipment [Line Items]
Depreciable Lives	5 years
Property and equipment, gross	$ 18,743	18,702
Software Development [Member]
Property, Plant and Equipment [Line Items]
Property and equipment, gross	$ 11,905	11,905
Software Development [Member] | Minimum [Member]
Property, Plant and Equipment [Line Items]
Depreciable Lives	3 years
Software Development [Member] | Maximum [Member]
Property, Plant and Equipment [Line Items]
Depreciable Lives	5 years
Vehicles [Member]
Property, Plant and Equipment [Line Items]
Depreciable Lives	5 years
Property and equipment, gross	$ 1,283	1,228
Construction in progress [Member]
Property, Plant and Equipment [Line Items]
Property and equipment, gross	$ 2,794	$ 2,195

Property and Equipment, net Ass

Property and Equipment, net Assets Financed by Financing Obligations (Details) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	Dec. 31, 2016	Sep. 30, 2016
Assets financed by financing obligations [Line Items]
Less accumulated depreciation and amortization	$ (6,832)	$ (6,162)
Assets financed by financing obligation, net	(38,984)	(39,654)
Buildings and Building Improvements [Member]
Assets financed by financing obligations [Line Items]
Assets financed by financing obligations, gross	$ 45,816	$ 45,816

Investment in Unconsolidated 41

Investment in Unconsolidated Affiliate Narrative (Details) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	12 Months Ended
	Sep. 30, 2016	Dec. 31, 2016	Dec. 31, 2015	Sep. 30, 2015
Schedule of Equity Method Investments [Line Items]
Investment in Unconsolidated Affiliate	$ 4,036	$ 4,043	$ 4,001	$ 3,986
Investment in unconsolidated affiliates	1,000
Investment in JV [Member]
Schedule of Equity Method Investments [Line Items]
Investment in Unconsolidated Affiliate	$ 4,036	$ 4,043
Investment in Unconsolidated Affiliate, Ownership Percentage	27.972%	27.972%
Investment in Pro Mech [Member]
Schedule of Equity Method Investments [Line Items]
Investment in Unconsolidated Affiliate	$ 0	$ 0
Investment in Unconsolidated Affiliate, Ownership Percentage	25.00%	25.00%
Investment in unconsolidated affiliates	$ 700
Conversion of note Receivable into Investment in Unconsolidated Affiliate	$ 300

Investment in Unconsolidated 42

Investment in Unconsolidated Affiliate (Details) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	3 Months Ended		12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2016	Dec. 31, 2015	Sep. 30, 2016	Sep. 30, 2015
Schedule of Equity Method Investments [Line Items]
Investment in Unconsolidated Affiliate	$ 4,043	$ 4,001	$ 4,036	$ 3,986
Investment in unconsolidated affiliates			1,000
Equity in earnings of unconsolidated affiliates	128	135
Return of capital contribution from unconsolidated affiliate	(118)	(119)
Equity interest in investee's unrealized gains on hedging derivatives, net of taxes	(3)	$ (1)
Investment in JV [Member]
Schedule of Equity Method Investments [Line Items]
Investment in Unconsolidated Affiliate	$ 4,043		$ 4,036
Investment in Unconsolidated Affiliate, Ownership Percentage	27.972%		27.972%
Investment in Pro Mech [Member]
Schedule of Equity Method Investments [Line Items]
Investment in Unconsolidated Affiliate	$ 0		$ 0
Investment in Unconsolidated Affiliate, Ownership Percentage	25.00%		25.00%
Investment in unconsolidated affiliates			$ 700

Accounts Payable and Accrued 43

Accounts Payable and Accrued Expenses (Details) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	Dec. 31, 2016	Sep. 30, 2016
Payables and Accruals [Abstract]
Accounts payable	$ 6,390	$ 11,805
Accrued compensation and benefits	14,957	22,501
Other accrued expenses	8,725	8,239
Accounts payable and accrued expenses, total	$ 30,072	$ 42,545

Income Taxes Narrative (Details

Income Taxes Narrative (Details) $ in Thousands	3 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2016USD ($)
Income Tax Disclosure [Abstract]
Valuation Allowances and Reserves, Period Increase (Decrease)	$ 2,139

Income Taxes Components of Inco

Income Taxes Components of Income Tax Expense (Details) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	3 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2016	Dec. 31, 2015
Components of income tax expense [Line Items]
Current Income Tax Expense (Benefit)	$ 2,610	$ (1,283)
Deferred income taxes	0	342
Income tax expense (benefit)	2,610	(941)
UNITED STATES
Components of income tax expense [Line Items]
Current Income Tax Expense (Benefit)	2,227	(1,420)
Deferred income taxes	0	439
State and Local Jurisdiction [Member]
Components of income tax expense [Line Items]
Current Income Tax Expense (Benefit)	383	137
Deferred income taxes	$ 0	$ (97)

Income Taxes Reconciliation of

Income Taxes Reconciliation of Tax Rate (Details) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	3 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2016	Dec. 31, 2015
Income Tax Disclosure [Abstract]
Income tax expense at statutory rate	$ 310	$ (917)
State income taxes (benefits), net of federal tax benefit	107	(8)
Increase in valuation allowance	2,139	0
Other, net	54	(21)
Income tax expense (benefit)	2,610	(941)
Effective Income Tax Rate Reconciliation, Nondeductible Expense, Share-based Compensation Cost, Amount	$ 0	$ 5

Income Taxes Components of Defe

Income Taxes Components of Deferred Tax Assets (Liabilities) (Details) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	Dec. 31, 2016	Sep. 30, 2016
Income Tax Disclosure [Abstract]
Deferred compensation	$ 2,064	$ 2,083
Reserves and accruals	5,410	5,417
Accrued tool sets	1,198	1,188
Deferred revenue	23,747	22,326
Deferred rent liability	1,033	1,213
Deferred Tax Assets, Property, Plant and Equipment	1,517	684
Deferred Tax Assets, Charitable Contribution Carryforwards	595	671
Deferred tax assets, deductions limited by Section 382	714	592
Net operating loss carryovers	380	479
Valuation Allowance	(34,941)	(32,828)
Total gross deferred tax assets	1,717	1,825
Amortization of goodwill	(3,141)	(3,141)
Prepaid and other expenses deductible for tax	(1,717)	(1,825)
Total gross deferred tax liabilities	(4,858)	(4,966)
Net deferred tax assets (liabilities)	$ (3,141)	$ (3,141)

Income Taxes Summary of Valuati

Income Taxes Summary of Valuation Allowance (Details) $ in Thousands	3 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2016USD ($)
Income Tax Disclosure [Abstract]
Beginning Balance Valuation Allowances and Reserves	$ 32,828
Valuation Allowances and Reserves, Period Increase (Decrease)	2,139
Valuation Allowances and Reserves, Additions for Charges to Cost and Expense	(26)
Ending Balance Valuation Allowances and Reserves	$ 34,941

Commitments and Contingencies49

Commitments and Contingencies (Narrative) (Details) - USD ($)	3 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2016	Dec. 31, 2015
Commitments and Contingencies (Textual) [Abstract]
Amount Of Loans Committed To Provide	$ 144
Loan Processing Fee	$ 400,000	$ 500,000

Commitments and Contingencies S

Commitments and Contingencies Schedule Of Impact Of Proprietary Loan Program On Our Tuition Revenue And Interest Income (Details) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	3 Months Ended		103 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2016	Dec. 31, 2015	Dec. 31, 2016
Schedule of Impact of Proprietary Loan Program on our Tuition Revenue and Interest Income [Abstract]
Tuition and interest income excluded	$ 5,992	$ 6,646	$ 148,707
Amounts collected and recognized	(1,833)	(1,535)	(22,918)
Net amount excluded during the period	$ 4,159	$ 5,111	$ 125,789

Commitments and Contingencies B

Commitments and Contingencies Balances Outstanding under Proprietary Loan Program (Details) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	3 Months Ended		103 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2016	Dec. 31, 2015	Dec. 31, 2016	Sep. 30, 2016	Sep. 30, 2015
Activity Related to Balances Outstanding under our Proprietary Loan Program [Abstract]
Amounts Outstanding Under Our Proprietary Loan Program	$ 76,583	$ 78,676	$ 76,583	$ 75,511	$ 74,664
Loans extended	6,248	8,283
Interest accrued	1,010	916
Amounts collected and recognized	(1,833)	(1,535)	$ (22,918)
Amounts written off	$ (4,353)	$ (3,652)

Shareholders' Equity Shareholde

Shareholders' Equity Shareholders' Equity - Additional Information (Details) $ / shares in Units, $ in Thousands	Jul. 11, 2016$ / shares	Jun. 30, 2017	Dec. 31, 2016USD ($)$ / sharesshares	Mar. 31, 2017USD ($)	Dec. 31, 2016USD ($)$ / sharesshares	Sep. 30, 2016USD ($)$ / sharesshares	Jun. 24, 2016shares	Dec. 31, 2015USD ($)	Dec. 20, 2011USD ($)
Stockholders Equity Note [Line Items]
Common Stock, Voting Rights			1
Preferred stock, shares authorized | shares			10,000,000		10,000,000	10,000,000
Preferred stock, par value | $ / shares			$ 0.0001		$ 0.0001	$ 0.0001
Preferred stock, shares issued | shares			700,000		700,000	700,000
Adjustments to Additional Paid in Capital, Stock Issued, Issuance Costs | $				$ 1,200
Nature of Common Ownership or Management Control Relationships			Coliseum Capital Management, LLC, an affiliate of the Purchaser, and its affiliates also beneficially owns 3,601,724 shares, or approximately 14.9%, of our common stock, as reported in a form 13D filed with the SEC on March 21, 2016.
Dividends payable | $			$ 1,323		$ 1,323	$ 0		$ 0
Repurchase of common stock authorized by Board of Directors | $									$ 25,000
Purchased shares | shares					1,677,570
Average price per share | $ / shares					$ 9.09
Aggregate cost of treasury stock repurchased during the period | $					$ 15,300
RightsExpirationDate		Jun. 28, 2017
NumberOfRightsForEachOutstandingShare	1
Series E Preferred Stock [Member]
Stockholders Equity Note [Line Items]
Preferred stock, par value | $ / shares	$ 0.0001
RightToPurchaseShareOfPreferredStock	Each right, which is exercisable only in the event of potential takeover, initially entitles the holder to purchase one one-thousandth of a share of a newly authorized series of participating preferred stock designated as Series E Junior Participating Preferred Stock
Class of Warrant or Right, Exercise Price of Warrants or Rights | $ / shares	$ 9
Preferred Stock, Voting Rights	1,000
Series A Preferred Stock [Member]
Stockholders Equity Note [Line Items]
Preferred stock, shares issued | shares						700,000
Preferred Stock, Liquidation Preference Per Share | $ / shares						$ 100
Preferred Stock, Dividend Rate, Percentage			7.50%
Convertible Preferred Stock, Terms of Conversion				3.33
Conversion cap, percentage						4.99%
Preferred Stock, Dividend Payment Rate, Variable			If we do not pay a Cash Dividend, the liquidation preference shall be increased to an amount equal to the current liquidation preference in effect plus an amount reflecting that liquidation preference multiplied by the Cash Dividend rate then in effect plus 2.0% per year (Accrued Dividend).
Preferred Stock Voting Cap				4.99%
Conversion cap, shares | shares							1,225,227
Preferred Stock
Stockholders Equity Note [Line Items]
Proceeds from Issuance or Sale of Equity | $				$ 70,000

Earnings per Share (Calculation

Earnings per Share (Calculation of the Weighted Average Number of Shares Outstanding) (Details) - shares shares in Thousands	3 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2016	Dec. 31, 2015
Weighted average number of shares
Basic	24,625	24,234
Incremental Common Shares Attributable to Dilutive Effect of Share-based Payment Arrangements	0	0
Diluted	24,625	24,234

Earnings per Share Schedule of

Earnings per Share Schedule of antidilutive securities (Details) - shares	3 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2016	Dec. 31, 2015
Antidilutive Securities Excluded from Computation of Earnings Per Share [Line Items]
Antidilutive Securities Excluded from Computation of Earnings Per Share, Amount	21,686,000	817,000
Restricted Stock [Member]
Antidilutive Securities Excluded from Computation of Earnings Per Share [Line Items]
Antidilutive Securities Excluded from Computation of Earnings Per Share, Amount	665,000	817,000
Convertible Preferred Stock [Member]
Antidilutive Securities Excluded from Computation of Earnings Per Share [Line Items]
Antidilutive Securities Excluded from Computation of Earnings Per Share, Amount	21,021,000	0

Earnings per Share calculation

Earnings per Share calculation of earnings per share (Details) - USD ($) $ / shares in Units, shares in Thousands, $ in Thousands	3 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2016	Dec. 31, 2015
Earnings Per Share, Diluted, by Common Class, Including Two Class Method [Line Items]
Loss available for distribution	$ (3,047)	$ (1,680)
Weighted Average Number of Shares Outstanding, Basic	24,625	24,234
Incremental Common Shares Attributable to Dilutive Effect of Share-based Payment Arrangements	0	0
Weighted Average Number of Shares Outstanding, Diluted	24,625	24,234
Net income (loss) per share - basic	$ (0.12)	$ (0.07)
Net income (loss) per share - diluted	$ (0.12)	$ (0.07)

Segment Information (Details)

Segment Information (Details) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	3 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2016	Dec. 31, 2015	Sep. 30, 2016
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]
Depreciation on training equipment obtained in exchange for services	$ 330	$ 302
Revenues
Revenues	84,179	89,773
Income (loss) from operations
Income (loss) from operations	1,387	(2,193)
Depreciation and amortization
Depreciation and amortization	3,639	3,582
Total Depreciation and Amortization	4,309	4,383
Net income (loss)
Net loss	(1,724)	(1,680)
Goodwill
Goodwill	9,005		$ 9,005
Assets
Total assets	282,173		297,159
Postsecondary education
Revenues
Revenues	80,544	86,665
Income (loss) from operations
Income (loss) from operations	2,097	(1,216)
Depreciation and amortization
Depreciation and amortization	4,208	4,320
Net income (loss)
Net loss	(1,546)	(1,172)
Goodwill
Goodwill	8,222		8,222
Assets
Total assets	274,437		289,688
Other
Revenues
Revenues	3,635	3,108
Income (loss) from operations
Income (loss) from operations	(710)	(977)
Depreciation and amortization
Depreciation and amortization	101	63
Net income (loss)
Net loss	(178)	$ (508)
Goodwill
Goodwill	783		783
Assets
Total assets	$ 7,736		$ 7,471