Education Realty Trust 10-K 27 Feb 15 2014 FY Annual report Financial data

Document_and_Entity_Informatio

Document and Entity Information (USD $)	12 Months Ended
In Billions, except Share data, unless otherwise specified	Dec. 31, 2014	Feb. 25, 2015	Jun. 30, 2014
Entity Information [Line Items]
Entity Registrant Name	EDUCATION REALTY TRUST, INC.
Entity Central Index Key	1302343
Current Fiscal Year End Date	-19
Entity Filer Category	Large Accelerated Filer
Document Type	10-K
Document Period End Date	31-Dec-14
Document Fiscal Year Focus	2014
Document Fiscal Period Focus	FY
Trading Symbol	EDR
Amendment Flag	FALSE
Entity Common Stock, Shares Outstanding		48,051,190
Entity Well-known Seasoned Issuer	Yes
Entity Voluntary Filers	No
Entity Current Reporting Status	Yes
Entity Public Float			$1.50
Education Realty Operating Partnership L.P.
Entity Information [Line Items]
Entity Registrant Name	EDUCATION REALTY OPERATING PARTNERSHIP L P
Entity Central Index Key	1351345
Current Fiscal Year End Date	-19
Entity Filer Category	Non-accelerated Filer
Document Type	10-K
Document Period End Date	31-Dec-14
Document Fiscal Year Focus	2014
Document Fiscal Period Focus	FY
Trading Symbol	EDR
Amendment Flag	FALSE
Entity Well-known Seasoned Issuer	No
Entity Voluntary Filers	No
Entity Current Reporting Status	Yes

CONSOLIDATED_BALANCE_SHEETS

CONSOLIDATED BALANCE SHEETS (USD $)	Dec. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2013
Assets:
Collegiate housing properties, net	$1,586,009,000	$1,388,885,000
Assets under development	120,702,000	116,787,000
Cash and cash equivalents	18,385,000	22,073,000
Restricted cash	10,342,000	12,253,000
Student contracts receivable, net	2,205,000	807,000
Receivable from managed third parties	373,000	361,000
Notes receivable	375,000	18,125,000
Goodwill and other intangibles, net	3,497,000	3,822,000
Other assets	69,749,000	47,452,000
Total assets	1,811,637,000	1,610,565,000
Liabilities:
Mortgage and construction loans, net of unamortized premium	249,637,000	422,681,000
Unsecured revolving credit facility	24,000,000	356,900,000
Unsecured term loans	187,500,000	0
Senior unsecured notes	250,000,000	0
Accounts payable	2,183,000	2,289,000
Accrued expenses	74,686,000	65,357,000
Deferred revenue	17,301,000	23,498,000
Total liabilities	805,307,000	870,725,000
Commitments and contingencies
Redeemable noncontrolling interests	14,512,000	9,871,000
Equity:
Common stock, $0.01 par value per share, 200,000,000 shares authorized, 47,999,427 and 38,246,718 shares issued and outstanding as of December 31, 2014 and 2013, respectively	480,000	383,000
Preferred shares, $0.01 par value, 50,000,000 shares authorized, no shares issued and outstanding	0	0
Additional paid-in capital	1,034,683,000	814,305,000
Accumulated deficit	-41,909,000	-88,964,000
Accumulated other comprehensive loss	-4,465,000	0
Total Education Realty Trust, Inc. stockholders’ equity	988,789,000	725,724,000
Noncontrolling interests	3,029,000	4,245,000
Total equity	991,818,000	729,969,000
Total liabilities and equity	1,811,637,000	1,610,565,000
Education Realty Operating Partnership L.P.
Assets:
Collegiate housing properties, net	1,586,009,000	1,388,885,000
Assets under development	120,702,000	116,787,000
Cash and cash equivalents	18,385,000	22,073,000
Restricted cash	10,342,000	12,253,000
Student contracts receivable, net	2,205,000	807,000
Receivable from managed third parties	373,000	361,000
Notes receivable	375,000	18,125,000
Goodwill and other intangibles, net	3,497,000	3,822,000
Other assets	69,749,000	47,452,000
Total assets	1,811,637,000	1,610,565,000
Liabilities:
Mortgage and construction loans, net of unamortized premium	249,637,000	422,681,000
Unsecured revolving credit facility	24,000,000	356,900,000
Unsecured term loans	187,500,000	0
Senior unsecured notes	250,000,000	0
Accounts payable	2,183,000	2,289,000
Accrued expenses	74,686,000	65,357,000
Deferred revenue	17,301,000	23,498,000
Total liabilities	805,307,000	870,725,000
Commitments and contingencies
Redeemable limited partner units	10,081,000	7,512,000
Redeemable noncontrolling interests	4,431,000	2,359,000
Equity:
General partner - 20,760 units outstanding at December 31, 2014 and 2013	191,000	190,000
Limited partners - 143,977,522 and 114,719,395 units issued and outstanding as of December 31, 2014 and 2013, respectively	993,063,000	725,534,000
Accumulated other comprehensive loss	-4,465,000	0
Total partners' capital	988,789,000	725,724,000
Noncontrolling interests	3,029,000	4,245,000
Total partners' capital	991,818,000	729,969,000
Total liabilities and equity	$1,811,637,000	$1,610,565,000

CONSOLIDATED_BALANCE_SHEETS_Pa

CONSOLIDATED BALANCE SHEETS (Parenthetical) (USD $)	Dec. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2013
Common stock, par value (usd per share)	$0.01	$0.01
Common stock, shares authorized (shares)	200,000,000	200,000,000
Common stock, shares issued (shares)	47,999,427	38,246,718
Common stock, shares outstanding (shares)	47,999,427	38,246,718
Preferred shares, par value (usd per share)	$0.01	$0.01
Preferred shares, shares authorized (shares)	50,000,000	50,000,000
Preferred shares, shares issued (shares)	0	0
Preferred shares, shares outstanding (shares)	0	0
Education Realty Operating Partnership L.P.
General partner, units outstanding (shares)	20,760	20,760
Limited partners, units issued (shares)	143,977,522	143,977,522
Limited partners, units outstanding (shares)	114,719,395	114,719,395

CONSOLIDATED_STATEMENTS_OF_INC

CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF INCOME AND COMPREHENSIVE INCOME (USD $)	12 Months Ended
In Thousands, except Share data, unless otherwise specified	Dec. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2013	Dec. 31, 2012
Revenues:
Collegiate housing leasing revenue	$206,322	$167,476	$124,087
Third-party development consulting services	6,805	2,989	820
Third-party management services	3,959	3,697	3,446
Operating expense reimbursements	8,707	10,214	9,593
Total revenues	225,793	184,376	137,946
Operating expenses:
Collegiate housing leasing operations	92,649	79,957	59,524
Development and management services	9,685	6,477	6,266
General and administrative	10,117	7,678	7,910
Depreciation and amortization	58,974	48,098	33,240
Ground lease expense	8,988	7,622	6,395
Loss on impairment of collegiate housing properties	12,733	0	0
Reimbursable operating expenses	8,707	10,214	9,593
Total operating expenses	201,853	160,046	122,928
Operating income	23,940	24,330	15,018
Nonoperating (income) expenses:
Interest expense	20,656	17,526	14,390
Amortization of deferred financing costs	2,156	1,758	1,215
Interest income	-190	-447	-283
Guarantee fee income from participating development	-3,000	0	0
Interest on loan to participating development	-6,486	0	0
Gain on insurance settlement	-8,133	0	0
Loss on extinguishment of debt	3,543	0	0
Total nonoperating expenses	8,546	18,837	15,322
Income (loss) before equity in losses of unconsolidated entities, income taxes, discontinued operations and gain on sale of collegiate housing properties	15,394	5,493	-304
Equity in losses of unconsolidated entities	-710	-203	-363
Income (loss) before income taxes, discontinued operations and gain on sale of collegiate housing properties	14,684	5,290	-667
Income tax expense (benefit)	261	203	-884
Income from continuing operations	14,423	5,087	217
Income (loss) from discontinued operations	0	-456	8,420
Income before gain on sale of collegiate housing properties	14,423	4,631	8,637
Gain on sale of collegiate housing properties	33,231	0	0
Net income	47,654	4,631	8,637
Less: Net income attributable to the noncontrolling interests	599	308	216
Net income attributable to Education Realty Trust, Inc.	47,055	4,323	8,421
Comprehensive income:
Net income	47,654	4,631	8,637
Other comprehensive loss:
Loss on cash flow hedging derivatives	-4,465	0	0
Comprehensive income	43,189	4,631	8,637
Less: comprehensive income attributable to the noncontrolling interests	599	308	216
Comprehensive income attributable to Education Realty Trust, Inc.	42,590	4,323	8,421
Income (loss) attributable to Education Realty Trust, Inc. common stockholders per share – basic:
Continuing operations (usd per share)	$1.10	$0.12	$0
Discontinued operations (usd per share)	$0	($0.01)	$0.25
Net income attributable to Education Realty Trust, Inc. common stockholders per share (usd per share)	$1.10	$0.11	$0.25
Income (loss) attributable to Education Realty Trust, Inc. common stockholders per share – diluted:
Continuing operations (usd per share)	$1.09	$0.12	$0
Discontinued operations (usd per share)	$0	($0.01)	$0.25
Net income attributable to Education Realty Trust, Inc. common stockholders per share (usd per share)	$1.09	$0.11	$0.25
Earnings per unit information:
Net income attributable to unitholders per unit (usd per share)		$0.11
Weighted average common shares outstanding:
Weighted average common shares outstanding - basic (shares)	42,933,958	38,143,999	33,747,991
Weighted average common shares outstanding - diluted (shares)	43,277,347	38,489,866	34,105,653
Education Realty Operating Partnership L.P.
Revenues:
Collegiate housing leasing revenue	206,322	167,476	124,087
Third-party development consulting services	6,805	2,989	820
Third-party management services	3,959	3,697	3,446
Operating expense reimbursements	8,707	10,214	9,593
Total revenues	225,793	184,376	137,946
Operating expenses:
Collegiate housing leasing operations	92,649	79,957	59,524
Development and management services	9,685	6,477	6,266
General and administrative	10,117	7,678	7,910
Depreciation and amortization	58,974	48,098	33,240
Ground lease expense	8,988	7,622	6,395
Loss on impairment of collegiate housing properties	12,733	0	0
Reimbursable operating expenses	8,707	10,214	9,593
Total operating expenses	201,853	160,046	122,928
Operating income	23,940	24,330	15,018
Nonoperating (income) expenses:
Interest expense	20,656	17,526	14,390
Amortization of deferred financing costs	2,156	1,758	1,215
Interest income	-190	-447	-283
Guarantee fee income from participating development	-3,000	0	0
Interest on loan to participating development	-6,486	0	0
Gain on insurance settlement	-8,133	0	0
Loss on extinguishment of debt	3,543	0	0
Total nonoperating expenses	8,546	18,837	15,322
Income (loss) before equity in losses of unconsolidated entities, income taxes, discontinued operations and gain on sale of collegiate housing properties	15,394	5,493	-304
Equity in losses of unconsolidated entities	-710	-203	-363
Income (loss) before income taxes, discontinued operations and gain on sale of collegiate housing properties	14,684	5,290	-667
Income tax expense (benefit)	261	203	-884
Income from continuing operations	14,423	5,087	217
Income (loss) from discontinued operations	0	-456	8,420
Income before gain on sale of collegiate housing properties	14,423	4,631	8,637
Gain on sale of collegiate housing properties	33,231	0	0
Net income	47,654	4,631	8,637
Less: Net income attributable to the noncontrolling interests	232	227	92
Net income attributable to Education Realty Trust, Inc.	47,422	4,404	8,545
Comprehensive income:
Net income	47,654	4,631	8,637
Other comprehensive loss:
Loss on cash flow hedging derivatives	-4,465	0	0
Comprehensive income	43,189	4,631	8,637
Less: comprehensive income attributable to the noncontrolling interests	232	227	92
Comprehensive income attributable to Education Realty Trust, Inc.	$42,957	$4,404	$8,545
Income (loss) attributable to Education Realty Trust, Inc. common stockholders per share – basic:
Continuing operations (usd per share)	$0.37	$0.04	$0
Discontinued operations (usd per share)	$0	$0	$0.08
Net income attributable to Education Realty Trust, Inc. common stockholders per share (usd per share)	$0.37	$0.04	$0.08
Income (loss) attributable to Education Realty Trust, Inc. common stockholders per share – diluted:
Continuing operations (usd per share)	$0.37	$0.04	$0
Discontinued operations (usd per share)	$0	$0	$0.08
Net income attributable to Education Realty Trust, Inc. common stockholders per share (usd per share)	$0.37	$0.04	$0.08
Earnings per unit information:
Continuing operations (usd per share)	$0.37	$0.04	$0
Discontinued operations (usd per share)	$0	$0	$0.08
Net income attributable to unitholders per unit (usd per share)	$0.37	$0.04	$0.08
Weighted average common shares outstanding:
Weighted average common shares outstanding - basic (shares)	129,634,499	115,262,339	102,109,701
Weighted average common shares outstanding - diluted (shares)	129,841,756	115,469,596	102,316,958

CONSOLIDATED_STATEMENTS_OF_CHA

CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF CHANGES IN EQUITY (USD $)	Total	Common Stock	Additional Paid-In Capital	Accumulated Deficit	Accumulated Other Comprehensive Loss	Noncontrolling Interests
In Thousands, except Share data, unless otherwise specified
Beginning balance at Dec. 31, 2011	$563,354	$306	$663,269	($101,708)	$0	$1,487
Beginning balance (in shares) at Dec. 31, 2011		30,600,229
Increase (Decrease) in Stockholders' Equity [Roll Forward]
Proceeds from issuances of common stock, net of offering costs (in shares)		6,995,942
Proceeds from issuances of common stock, net of offering costs	220,265	70	220,195
Common stock issued to officers and directors (in shares)		10,762
Common stock issued to officers and directors	360		360
Amortization of restricted stock (in shares)		80,551
Amortization of restricted stock	768	1	767
Cash dividends	-33,959		-33,959			0
Return of equity to noncontrolling interests	-349					-349
Contributions from noncontrolling interests	4,039					4,039
Comprehensive income (loss)	8,332			8,421		-89
Ending balance at Dec. 31, 2012	762,810	377	850,632	-93,287	0	5,088
Ending balance (in shares) at Dec. 31, 2012		37,687,484
Increase (Decrease) in Stockholders' Equity [Roll Forward]
Proceeds from issuances of common stock, net of offering costs (in shares)		525,237
Proceeds from issuances of common stock, net of offering costs	16,685	5	16,680
Common stock issued to officers and directors (in shares)		11,060
Common stock issued to officers and directors	360		360
Amortization of restricted stock (in shares)		22,937
Amortization of restricted stock	1,337	1	1,336
Cash dividends	-48,010		-48,010
Return of equity to noncontrolling interests	-795					-795
Contributions from noncontrolling interests	69					69
Purchase of noncontrolling interests	-6,868		-6,693			-175
Adjustments to reflect redeemable noncontrolling interests at fair value						0
Comprehensive income (loss)	4,381			4,323		58
Ending balance at Dec. 31, 2013	729,969	383	814,305	-88,964	0	4,245
Ending balance (in shares) at Dec. 31, 2013		38,246,718
Increase (Decrease) in Stockholders' Equity [Roll Forward]
Proceeds from issuances of common stock, net of offering costs (in shares)		9,674,217
Proceeds from issuances of common stock, net of offering costs	288,717	96	288,621
Common stock issued to officers and directors (in shares)		13,384
Common stock issued to officers and directors	420		420
Amortization of restricted stock (in shares)		65,108
Amortization of restricted stock	2,206	1	2,205
Cash dividends	-59,149		-59,149			0
Return of equity to noncontrolling interests	-818					-818
Contributions from noncontrolling interests	2,230					2,230
Purchase of noncontrolling interests	-9,302		-6,507			-2,795
Adjustments to reflect redeemable noncontrolling interests at fair value	-5,212		-5,212			-2,555
Comprehensive income (loss)	42,757			47,055	-4,465	167
Ending balance at Dec. 31, 2014	$991,818	$480	$1,034,683	($41,909)	($4,465)	$3,029
Ending balance (in shares) at Dec. 31, 2014		47,999,427

CONSOLIDATED_STATEMENTS_OF_CHA1

CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF CHANGES IN PARTNERS' CAPITAL AND NONCONTROLLING INTERESTS (USD $)	Total	Education Realty Operating Partnership L.P.	Education Realty Operating Partnership L.P.	Education Realty Operating Partnership L.P.	Education Realty Operating Partnership L.P.	Education Realty Operating Partnership L.P.
In Thousands, except Share data, unless otherwise specified			Accumulated Other Comprehensive Loss	Noncontrolling Interests	General Partner	Limited Partners
Balance at Dec. 31, 2011		$563,354	$0	$1,487	$199	$561,668
Balance, Units (shares) at Dec. 31, 2011					20,760	91,779,928
Increase (Decrease) in Partners' Capital [Roll Forward]
Vesting of restricted stock and restricted stock units (shares)						32,286
Vesting of restricted stock and restricted stock units		360				360
Issuance of units in exchange for contributions of gross equity offering proceeds (shares)						20,987,826
Issuance of units in exchange for contributions of gross equity offering proceeds		229,219				229,219
Offering costs and underwriters discount paid on behalf of the Trust		-8,954				-8,954
Amortization of restricted stock awards (shares)						241,652
Amortization of restricted stock awards		768				768
Distributions		-33,959			-7	-33,952
Return of equity to noncontrolling interests		-349		-349
Contributions from noncontrolling interests		4,039		4,039
Comprehensive income (loss)		8,332		-89	4	8,417
Balance at Dec. 31, 2012		762,810	0	5,088	196	757,526
Balance, Units (shares) at Dec. 31, 2012					20,760	113,041,692
Increase (Decrease) in Partners' Capital [Roll Forward]
Vesting of restricted stock and restricted stock units (shares)						33,180
Vesting of restricted stock and restricted stock units		360				360
Issuance of units in exchange for contributions of gross equity offering proceeds (shares)						1,575,713
Issuance of units in exchange for contributions of gross equity offering proceeds		17,177				17,177
Offering costs and underwriters discount paid on behalf of the Trust		-492				-492
Amortization of restricted stock awards (shares)						68,810
Amortization of restricted stock awards		1,337				1,337
Distributions		-48,010			-9	-48,001
Return of equity to noncontrolling interests		-795		-795
Contributions from noncontrolling interests		69		69
Purchase of noncontrolling interests	-6,868	-6,868		-175		-6,693
Comprehensive income (loss)		4,381		58	3	4,320
Balance at Dec. 31, 2013		729,969	0	4,245	190	725,534
Balance, Units (shares) at Dec. 31, 2013					20,760	114,719,395
Increase (Decrease) in Partners' Capital [Roll Forward]
Vesting of restricted stock and restricted stock units (shares)						40,152
Vesting of restricted stock and restricted stock units		420				420
Issuance of units in exchange for contributions of gross equity offering proceeds (shares)						29,022,651
Issuance of units in exchange for contributions of gross equity offering proceeds		300,259				300,259
Offering costs and underwriters discount paid on behalf of the Trust		-11,541				-11,541
Amortization of restricted stock awards (shares)						195,324
Amortization of restricted stock awards		2,206				2,206
Distributions		-59,149		0	-10	-59,139
Return of equity to noncontrolling interests		-818		-818
Contributions from noncontrolling interests		2,230		2,230
Purchase of noncontrolling interests	-9,302	-9,302		-2,795		-6,507
Adjustments to reflect redeemable limited partners' interests at fair value		-2,657				-2,657
Adjustments to reflect redeemable noncontrolling interests at fair value		-2,556				-2,556
Comprehensive income (loss)		42,757	-4,465	167	11	47,044
Balance at Dec. 31, 2014		$991,818	($4,465)	$3,029	$191	$993,063
Balance, Units (shares) at Dec. 31, 2014					20,760	143,977,522

CONSOLIDATED_STATEMENTS_OF_CAS

CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF CASH FLOWS (USD $)	12 Months Ended
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified	Dec. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2013	Dec. 31, 2012
Operating activities:
Net income	$47,654	$4,631	$8,637
Adjustments to reconcile net income to net cash provided by operating activities:
Depreciation and amortization	58,974	48,098	33,240
Depreciation included in discontinued operations	0	1,767	4,634
Deferred tax expense (benefit)	165	-260	1,043
Loss on disposal of assets	54	12	99
Gain on sale of collegiate housing property	-33,231	-3,913	-5,496
Gain on insurance settlement	-8,133	0	0
Noncash rent expense related to the straight-line adjustment for long-term ground leases	4,835	5,255	4,364
Loss on impairment of collegiate housing properties	12,733	5,001	0
Loss on extinguishment of debt	3,543	0	0
Amortization of deferred financing costs	2,156	1,758	1,215
Amortization of unamortized debt premiums	-806	-776	-80
Distributions of earnings from unconsolidated entities	97	71	195
Noncash compensation expense related to stock-based incentive awards	2,249	2,127	2,041
Equity in losses of unconsolidated entities	710	203	363
Change in operating assets and liabilities (net of acquisitions):
Student contracts receivable	-1,766	-315	-19
Management fees receivable	-12	268	304
Other assets	1,336	17,009	-9,009
Accounts payable and accrued expenses	3,699	-8,846	5,721
Deferred revenue	-5,036	5,317	4,142
Net cash provided by operating activities	89,221	77,407	51,394
Investing activities:
Property acquisitions, net of cash acquired	-131,392	-109,482	-239,065
Purchase of corporate assets	-11,477	-787	-3,106
Restricted cash	1,911	-5,843	-1,584
Insurance proceeds received on property losses	2,129	16,860	3,900
Investment in collegiate housing properties	-16,150	-17,183	-22,599
Proceeds from sale of collegiate housing properties	133,117	40,256	67,261
Notes receivable	-250	-125	0
Repayment on notes receivable	18,000	3,000	1,800
Loans to developments	0	0	-3,000
Earnest money deposits	-250	-125	-3,000
Investment in assets under development	-222,296	-215,409	-157,840
Distributions from unconsolidated entities	0	0	82
Investments in unconsolidated entities	-9,117	-9,475	-11,797
Net cash used in investing activities	-235,775	-298,313	-368,948
Financing activities:
Payment of mortgage and construction notes	-190,102	-97,931	-79,185
Borrowings under mortgage and construction loans	17,865	90,123	71,156
Borrowings on unsecured term loan	187,500	0
Borrowings on senior unsecured notes	250,000	0
Debt issuance costs	-6,419	-4,578	-1,026
Debt extinguishment costs	-2,807	0	0
Borrowings on line of credit	380,000	302,033	141,000
Repayments of line of credit	-712,900	-24,133	-62,000
Proceeds from issuance of common stock	289,584	16,890	220,441
Payment of offering costs	-866	-238	-805
Purchase and return of equity to noncontrolling interests	-10,138	-7,664	-349
Contributions from noncontrolling interests	2,230	1,197	4,039
Dividends and distributions paid to common and restricted stockholders	-59,149	-48,010	-33,959
Dividends and distributions paid to noncontrolling interests	-1,011	-449	-532
Repurchases of common stock for payments of restricted stock tax withholding	-921	-1,300	0
Net cash provided by financing activities	142,866	225,940	258,780
Net (decrease) increase in cash and cash equivalents	-3,688	5,034	-58,774
Cash and cash equivalents, beginning of period	22,073	17,039	75,813
Cash and cash equivalents, end of period	18,385	22,073	17,039
Supplemental disclosure of cash flow information:
Interest paid, net of amounts capitalized	20,548	23,060	18,402
Income taxes paid	45	542	76
Supplemental disclosure of noncash activities:
Redemption of redeemable noncontrolling interests from unit holder	0	0	606
Capital expenditures in accounts payable and accrued expenses related to developments	18,558	15,425	20,028
Mortgage and construction loans assumed in connection with property acquisitions	0	32,420	48,451
Education Realty Operating Partnership L.P.
Operating activities:
Net income	47,654	4,631	8,637
Adjustments to reconcile net income to net cash provided by operating activities:
Depreciation and amortization	58,974	48,098	33,240
Depreciation included in discontinued operations	0	1,767	4,634
Deferred tax expense (benefit)	165	-260	1,043
Loss on disposal of assets	54	12	99
Gain on sale of collegiate housing property	-33,231	-3,913	-5,496
Gain on insurance settlement	-8,133	0	0
Noncash rent expense related to the straight-line adjustment for long-term ground leases	4,835	5,255	4,364
Loss on impairment of collegiate housing properties	12,733	5,001	0
Loss on extinguishment of debt	3,543	0	0
Amortization of deferred financing costs	2,156	1,758	1,215
Amortization of unamortized debt premiums	-806	-776	-80
Distributions of earnings from unconsolidated entities	97	71	195
Noncash compensation expense related to stock-based incentive awards	2,249	2,127	2,041
Equity in losses of unconsolidated entities	710	203	363
Change in operating assets and liabilities (net of acquisitions):
Student contracts receivable	-1,766	-315	-19
Management fees receivable	-12	268	304
Other assets	1,336	17,009	-9,009
Accounts payable and accrued expenses	3,699	-8,846	5,721
Deferred revenue	-5,036	5,317	4,142
Net cash provided by operating activities	89,221	77,407	51,394
Investing activities:
Property acquisitions, net of cash acquired	-131,392	-109,482	-239,065
Purchase of corporate assets	-11,477	-787	-3,106
Restricted cash	1,911	-5,843	-1,584
Insurance proceeds received on property losses	2,129	16,860	3,900
Investment in collegiate housing properties	-16,150	-17,183	-22,599
Proceeds from sale of collegiate housing properties	133,117	40,256	67,261
Notes receivable	-250	-125	0
Repayment on notes receivable	18,000	3,000	1,800
Loans to developments	0	0	-3,000
Earnest money deposits	-250	-125	-3,000
Investment in assets under development	-222,296	-215,409	-157,840
Distributions from unconsolidated entities	0	0	82
Investments in unconsolidated entities	-9,117	-9,475	-11,797
Net cash used in investing activities	-235,775	-298,313	-368,948
Financing activities:
Payment of mortgage and construction notes	-190,102	-97,931	-79,185
Borrowings under mortgage and construction loans	17,865	90,123	71,156
Borrowings on unsecured term loan	187,500	0
Borrowings on senior unsecured notes	250,000	0
Debt issuance costs	-6,419	-4,578	-1,026
Debt extinguishment costs	-2,807	0	0
Borrowings on line of credit	380,000	302,033	141,000
Repayments of line of credit	-712,900	-24,133	-62,000
Proceeds from issuance of common stock	300,259	17,144	228,590
Payment of offering costs	-11,541	-492	-8,954
Purchase and return of equity to noncontrolling interests	-10,138	-7,664	-349
Contributions from noncontrolling interests	2,230	1,197	4,039
Distributions paid on unvested restricted stock awards	-69	-80	-61
Distributions paid to unitholders	-59,080	-47,930	-33,898
Distributions paid to noncontrolling interests	-1,011	-449	-532
Repurchases of common stock for payments of restricted stock tax withholding	-921	-1,300	0
Net cash provided by financing activities	142,866	225,940	258,780
Net (decrease) increase in cash and cash equivalents	-3,688	5,034	-58,774
Cash and cash equivalents, beginning of period	22,073	17,039	75,813
Cash and cash equivalents, end of period	18,385	22,073	17,039
Supplemental disclosure of cash flow information:
Interest paid, net of amounts capitalized	20,548	23,060	18,402
Income taxes paid	45	542	76
Supplemental disclosure of noncash activities:
Redemption of redeemable noncontrolling interests from unit holder	0	0	606
Capital expenditures in accounts payable and accrued expenses related to developments	18,558	15,425	20,028
Mortgage and construction loans assumed in connection with property acquisitions	$0	$32,420	$48,451

Organization_and_description_o

Organization and description of business	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2014
Organization, Consolidation and Presentation of Financial Statements [Abstract]
Organization and description of business	Organization and description of business
	Education Realty Trust, Inc. ("EdR" and collectively with its consolidated subsidiaries, the “Trust”) was organized in the state of Maryland on July 12, 2004 and commenced operations effective with the initial public offering that was completed on January 31, 2005. Through the Trust's controlling interest in both the sole general partner and the majority owning limited partner of Education Realty Operating Partnership L.P. ("EROP" and collectively with its consolidated subsidiaries, the "Operating Partnership"), the Trust is one of the largest developers, owners and managers of collegiate housing communities in the United States in terms of beds owned and under management. The Trust is a self-administered and self-managed REIT publicly traded on the New York Stock Exchange under the ticker symbol "EDR". Under the Articles of Incorporation, as amended, the Trust is authorized to issue up to 200 million shares of common stock and 50 million shares of preferred stock, each having a par value of $0.01 per share.
	The sole general partner of EROP is Education Realty OP GP, Inc. (“OP GP”), an entity that is indirectly wholly-owned by EdR. As of December 31, 2014, OP GP held an ownership interest in EROP of less than 1%. The limited partners of EROP are Education Realty OP Limited Partner Trust, a wholly-owned subsidiary of EdR, and other limited partners consisting of current and former members of management. OP GP, as the sole general partner of EROP, has the responsibility and discretion in the management and control of EROP, and the limited partners of EROP, in such capacity, have no authority to transact business for, or participate in the management activities of EROP. Management operates the Trust and the Operating Partnership as one business. The management of the Trust consists of the same members as the management of the Operating Partnership. EdR consolidates the Operating Partnership for financial reporting purposes, and EdR does not have significant assets other than its investment in the Operating Partnership. Therefore, the assets and liabilities of the Trust and the Operating Partnership are the same on their respective financial statements. Unless otherwise indicated, the accompanying Notes to the Consolidated Financial Statements apply to both the Trust and the Operating Partnership.
	The Trust also provides real estate facility management, development and other advisory services through the following taxable REIT subsidiaries ("TRSs"):
	•	EDR Management Inc. (our “Management Company”), a Delaware corporation performing collegiate housing management activities; and
	•	EDR Development LLC (our “Development Company”), a Delaware limited liability company providing development consulting services for third party collegiate housing communities.
	The Trust is subject to the risks involved with the ownership and operation of residential real estate near major universities throughout the United States. The risks include, among others, those normally associated with changes in the demand for housing by students at the related universities, competition for residents, creditworthiness of residents, changes in tax laws, interest rate levels, the availability of financing and potential liability under environmental and other laws.

Summary_of_significant_account

Summary of significant accounting policies	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2014
Accounting Policies [Abstract]
Summary of significant accounting policies	Summary of significant accounting policies
	Basis of presentation
	The accompanying consolidated financial statements have been prepared on the accrual basis of accounting in conformity with accounting principles generally accepted in the United States (“GAAP”). The accompanying consolidated financial statements of the Trust represent the assets and liabilities and operating results of the Trust and its majority owned subsidiaries.
	All intercompany balances and transactions have been eliminated in the accompanying consolidated financial statements.
	Use of estimates
	The preparation of financial statements in conformity with GAAP requires management to make estimates and assumptions that affect the reported amounts of assets and liabilities and disclosures of contingent assets and liabilities at the date of the financial statements and the reported amounts of revenues and expenses during the reporting period. Significant estimates and assumptions are used by management in determining the recognition of third-party development consulting services revenue under the percentage of completion method, useful lives of collegiate housing assets, the valuation of goodwill, the initial valuations and underlying allocations of purchase price in connection with collegiate housing property acquisitions, and the determination of fair value for impairment assessments and derivative valuation. Actual results could differ from those estimates.
	Cash and cash equivalents
	All highly-liquid investments with a maturity of three months or less when purchased are considered cash equivalents. Restricted cash is excluded from cash for the purpose of preparing the consolidated statements of cash flows. The Trust maintains cash balances in various banks. At times, the amounts of cash may exceed the amount the Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation (“FDIC”) insures. As of December 31, 2014, the Trust had $11.0 million cash on deposit that was uninsured by the FDIC or in excess of the FDIC limits.
	Restricted cash
	Restricted cash includes escrow accounts held by lenders for the purpose of paying taxes, insurance, principal and interest and funding capital improvements.
	Distributions
	EdR pays regular quarterly cash distributions to stockholders. At the same time, EROP pays an equivalent amount per unit to holders of partnership units of the Operating Partnership ("OP Units") as of the record date. These distributions are determined quarterly by the Board of Directors (“Board”) based on the operating results, economic conditions, capital expenditure requirements, the REIT annual distribution requirements of the Code, leverage covenants imposed by our revolving credit facility and other debt documents, and any other matters the Board deems relevant. Distributions for the year ended December 31, 2014 totaled $59.1 million, or $1.38 per share to our common and restricted stockholders, and $1.0 million, or $0.46 per OP Unit, to the Operating Partnership unitholders. Of the distributions to the common and restricted stockholders, $0.30 was treated as a non-taxable return of capital and $1.08 was treated as ordinary dividend income for income tax purposes.
	Notes receivable
	On August 26, 2013, the Trust provided a $0.5 million promissory loan to College Park Apartments, Inc. ("CPA"), the Trust's partner in the unconsolidated joint venture University Village-Greensboro LLC (see Note 8), at an interest rate of 10% per annum and a maturity date of August 1, 2020. Under the loan, CPA can make one draw per calendar quarter. At December 31, 2014 and 2013, $0.4 million and $0.1 million, respectively, was outstanding. The loan is secured by CPA's interest in the joint venture.
	On July 14, 2010, the Trust entered into definitive agreements for the development, financing and management of a $60.7 million, 20-story, 572-bed graduate collegiate housing complex at the Science + Technology Park at Johns Hopkins Medical Institute. The Trust developed and manages the building, which was constructed on land owned by Johns Hopkins University and leased to a subsidiary of East Baltimore Development, Inc., a nonprofit partnership of private and public entities dedicated to Baltimore’s urban revitalization. Under terms of the agreements, the Trust (a) received development and construction oversight fees and reimbursement of pre-development expenses, (b) invested in the form of an $18.0 million second mortgage, (c) will earn a $3.0 million fee for providing a repayment guarantee of the construction first mortgage and (d) received a 10-year management contract. The second mortgage had a maturity date of July 31, 2040. As of December 31, 2013, the notes receivable for the second mortgage had a balance of $18.0 million and is recorded in notes receivable in the accompanying consolidated balance sheet. The Trust did not have an ownership interest in any form that would require consolidation. Due to its financing commitments to the project along with other factors, the Trust deferred recognition of the development services revenue, guarantee fee revenue and interest income earned on the second mortgage until the second mortgage was repaid, and the Trust no longer had a substantial continuing financial involvement. During the year ended December 31, 2014, the third party owners closed on permanent financing for the community and used the proceeds to repay the construction first mortgage and second mortgage. As a result, the Trust recognized development services revenue, net of costs, of $2.6 million (including participation in cost savings of $0.8 million), guarantee fee revenue of $3.0 million and interest income on the second mortgage of $6.5 million.
	Collegiate housing properties
	Land, land improvements, buildings and improvements, and furniture, fixtures and equipment are recorded at cost. Buildings and improvements are depreciated over 15 to 40 years, land improvements are depreciated over 15 years and furniture, fixtures, and equipment are depreciated over 3 to 7 years. Depreciation is computed using the straight-line method for financial reporting purposes over the estimated useful life.
	For assets under development, the Trust capitalizes interest based on the weighted average interest cost of the total debt and internal development costs as assets under development. When the property opens, these costs, along with other direct costs of the development, are transferred into the applicable asset category and depreciation commences.
	Acquired collegiate housing communities’ results of operations are included in the Trust’s results of operations from the respective dates of acquisition. Appraisals, estimates of cash flows and other valuation techniques are used to allocate the purchase price of acquired property between land, land improvements, buildings and improvements, furniture, fixtures and equipment and identifiable intangibles such as amounts related to in-place leases. Acquisition costs are expensed as incurred and are included in general and administrative expenses in the accompanying consolidated statements of income and comprehensive income.
	Management assesses impairment of long-lived assets to be held and used whenever events or changes in circumstances indicate that the carrying amount of an asset may not be recoverable. Management uses an estimate of future undiscounted cash flows of the related asset based on its intended use to determine whether the carrying value is recoverable. If the Trust determines that the carrying value of an asset is not recoverable, the fair value of the asset is estimated and an impairment loss is recorded to the extent the carrying value exceeds estimated fair value. Management estimates fair value using discounted cash flow models, market appraisals if available, and other market participant data.
	During the years ended December 31, 2014 and 2013, the Trust recorded a $12.7 million and a $5.0 million loss on impairment of collegiate housing properties, respectively. The impairment losses were due to a change in circumstances that indicated their respective carrying values may not be recoverable. The change in circumstances for the properties could be attributable to changes in property specific market conditions, changes in anticipated future use and/or leasing results or a combination of these factors.
	When a collegiate housing community has met the criteria to be classified as held for sale, the fair value less cost to sell such asset is estimated. If the fair value less cost to sell the asset is less than the carrying amount of the asset, an impairment charge is recorded for the estimated loss. Depreciation expense is no longer recorded once a collegiate housing community has met the held for sale criteria. Operations of collegiate housing communities that are sold or classified as held for sale were recorded as part of discontinued operations prior to January 1, 2014. During the year ended December 31, 2013 and 2012, five properties were classified as discontinued operations in the accompanying consolidated statements of income and comprehensive income. All five of these properties were sold by December 31, 2013 (see Note 5). Effective January 1, 2014, the Trust adopted Accounting Standards Update ("ASU") No. 2014-08 related to the presentation of discontinued operations. Prospectively, only dispositions that represent a strategic shift in the business will qualify for treatment as discontinued operations. The property dispositions during the year ended December 31, 2014 did not qualify for treatment as discontinued operations and, as a result, the operations of the properties are included in continuing operations in the accompanying consolidated statements of income and comprehensive income.
	Deferred financing costs
	Deferred financing costs represent costs incurred in connection with acquiring debt facilities. The deferred financing costs incurred for years ended December 31, 2014, 2013 and 2012 were $6.4 million, $4.6 million and $0.9 million, respectively, and are being amortized over the terms of the related debt using a method that approximates the effective interest method. Amortization expense totaled $2.2 million, $1.8 million, and $1.2 million for the years ended December 31, 2014, 2013 and 2012, respectively. As of December 31, 2014 and 2013, accumulated amortization totaled $8.3 million and $7.0 million, respectively. Deferred financing costs, net of amortization, are included in other assets in the accompanying consolidated balance sheets (see Note 7).
	Redeemable noncontrolling interests (the Trust) / redeemable limited partners (EROP)
	The Trust follows the guidance issued by the Financial Accounting Standards Board ("FASB") regarding the classification and measurement of redeemable securities. The Trust classifies redeemable noncontrolling interests, which include redeemable interests in consolidated joint ventures and units of limited partnership interest in University Towers Operating Partnership, LP and in the Operating Partnership in the mezzanine section of the accompanying consolidated balance sheets. In the accompanying consolidated balance sheets of the Operating Partnership, the redeemable units of limited partnership in the Operating Partnership are classified as redeemable limited partners. The redeemable noncontrolling interest units / redeemable limited partner units are adjusted to the greater of carrying value or fair market value based on the common share price of EdR at the end of each respective reporting period.
	Common stock issuances and offering costs
	Specific incremental costs directly attributable to the issuance of EdR common stock are charged against the gross proceeds of the related issuance. Accordingly, underwriting commissions and other stock issuance costs are reflected as a reduction of additional paid-in capital in the accompanying consolidated statement of changes in equity.
	The Trust is structured as an umbrella partnership REIT ("UPREIT") and contributes all proceeds from its various equity offerings to EROP. For every one share of common stock offered and sold by EdR for cash, EdR must contribute the net proceeds to EROP and, in return, EROP will issue three OP Units to EdR (rather than the one-to-one relationship that existed prior to the reverse stock split). As stipulated in the Operating Partnership Agreement, proceeds from equity offerings are deemed to be contributed to the Operating Partnership at the gross amount with EROP incurring expenses related to the underwriters commission and other offering costs. Accordingly, proceeds from common stock issuances contributed to EROP in exchange for OP Units are presented gross on the Operating Partnership's consolidated statement of cash flows and consolidated statement of changes in partners' capital and noncontrolling interest. The payment of offering costs by EROP on behalf of the Trust is considered a distribution.
	In May 2012, the Trust entered into two equity distribution agreements ("ATM Program") pursuant to which the Trust may issue and sell shares of EdR common stock having an aggregate offering amount of $50.0 million. As of December 31, 2013, the Trust had sold 0.5 million shares of common stock under the distribution agreements for net proceeds of approximately $17.8 million. The Trust used the net proceeds to repay debt, fund its development pipeline, fund acquisitions and for general corporate purposes. The Trust sold 1.0 million shares of EdR common stock under the distribution agreements during the year ended December 31, 2014 and received net proceeds of $31.5 million, which exhausted the ATM Program entered into during May 2012.
	On August 14, 2012, the Trust completed a follow-on offering of 5.8 million shares of common stock, which included 0.8 million shares purchased by the underwriters pursuant to an option to purchase additional shares. The Trust received approximately $180.9 million in net proceeds from the offering after deducting the underwriting discount and other offering expenses. The Trust used the net proceeds to repay the unsecured revolving credit facility (see Note 10) and to fund the acquisition of The Province at East Carolina University, The District on 5th serving the University of Arizona, Campus Village serving Michigan State University, The Province at Kent State serving Kent State University and The Suites at Overton Park and The Centre at Overton Park both serving Texas Tech University (see Note 4).
	On June 24, 2014, the Trust completed a follow-on equity offering of 8.2 million shares of EdR common stock. The Trust received approximately $239.4 million in net proceeds from the offering after deducting the underwriting discount and other offering expenses payable by the Trust.
	During October 2014, the Trust entered into agreements to establish a new ATM Program authorized to sell a maximum of $150.0 million in additional shares of EdR common stock. The Trust sold 0.5 million shares under these distribution agreements during the year ended December 31, 2014 and received net proceeds of $18.1 million. The Trust used the net proceeds to repay debt, fund its development pipeline, fund acquisitions and for general corporate purposes.
	On November 20, 2014, the Board authorized a 1-for-3 reverse stock split of shares of EdR common stock, effective December 1, 2014. Accordingly, every three issued and outstanding shares of EdR common stock as of December 1, 2014 were reduced to one. All shares and related per-share information presented in these financial statements have been retroactively adjusted to reflect the decreased number of shares.
	Debt premiums
	Differences between the estimated fair value of debt and the principal value of debt assumed in connection with collegiate housing property acquisitions are amortized over the term of the related debt as an offset to interest expense using the effective interest method. As of December 31, 2014 and 2013, net unamortized debt premiums totaled $1.5 million and $2.3 million, respectively. These amounts are included in mortgage and construction loans in the accompanying consolidated balance sheets.
	Income taxes
	EdR qualifies as a REIT under the Code. EdR is generally not subject to federal, state and local income taxes on any of its taxable income that it distributes if it distributes at least 90% of its REIT taxable income for each tax year to its stockholders and meets certain other requirements. If EdR fails to qualify as a REIT for any taxable year, EdR will be subject to federal, state and local income taxes (including any applicable alternative minimum tax) on its taxable income.
	The Trust has elected to treat certain of its subsidiaries, including the Management Company, as TRSs. A TRS is subject to federal, state and local income taxes. Our Management Company provides management services and through our Development Company, provides development services, which if directly provided by the Trust would jeopardize EdR’s REIT status. Deferred tax assets and liabilities are recognized based on the difference between the financial statement carrying amounts of existing assets and liabilities and their respective tax basis. Deferred tax assets and liabilities are measured using enacted tax rates in effect in the years in which those temporary differences are expected to reverse.
	Repairs, maintenance and major improvements
	The costs of ordinary repairs and maintenance are charged to operations when incurred. Major improvements that extend the life of an asset are capitalized and depreciated over the remaining useful life of the asset. Planned major repair, maintenance and improvement projects are capitalized when performed. In some circumstances, the lenders require the Trust to maintain a reserve account for future repairs and capital expenditures. These amounts are classified as restricted cash in the accompanying consolidated balance sheets as the funds are not available for use.
	Goodwill and other intangible assets
	Goodwill is tested annually for impairment as of December 31, and is tested for impairment more frequently if events and circumstances indicate that the assets might be impaired. An impairment loss is recognized to the extent that the carrying amount exceeds the asset’s fair value. The accumulated impairment loss recorded as of December 31, 2008 was $0.4 million. No additional impairment has been recorded through December 31, 2014. The carrying value of goodwill was $3.1 million as of December 31, 2014 and 2013, of which $2.1 million was recorded on the management services segment and $0.9 million was recorded on the development consulting services segment. Goodwill is not subject to amortization. Other intangible assets generally include in-place leases acquired in connection with acquisitions and are amortized over the estimated life of the lease/contract term. The carrying value of other intangible assets was $0.4 million and $0.8 million as of December 31, 2014 and 2013, respectively.
	Investment in unconsolidated entities
	The Trust accounts for its investments in unconsolidated joint ventures using the equity method whereby the costs of an investment are adjusted for the Trust’s share of earnings of the respective investment reduced by distributions received. The earnings and distributions of the unconsolidated joint ventures are allocated based on each owner’s respective ownership interests. These investments are classified as other assets or accrued expenses, depending on whether the distributions exceed the Trust’s contributions and share of earnings in the joint ventures, in the accompanying consolidated balance sheets (see Note 8).
	Revenue recognition
	The Trust recognizes revenue related to leasing activities at the collegiate housing communities owned by the Trust, management fees related to managing third-party collegiate housing communities, development consulting fees related to the general oversight of third-party collegiate housing development and operating expense reimbursements for payroll and related expenses incurred for third-party collegiate housing communities managed by the Trust.
	Collegiate housing leasing revenue — Collegiate housing leasing revenue is comprised of all activities related to leasing and operating the collegiate housing communities and includes revenues from leasing apartments by the bed, food services, parking lot rentals and providing certain ancillary services. Students are required to execute lease contracts with payment schedules that vary from semester to monthly payments. Generally, the Trust requires each executed leasing contract to be accompanied by a signed parental guarantee. Receivables are recorded when billed. Revenues and nonrefundable application and service fees are recognized on a straight-line basis over the term of the contracts. At certain collegiate housing facilities, the Trust offers parking lot rentals to the residents. The related revenues are recognized on a straight-line basis over the term of the related agreement. Deferred revenue related to collegiate housing revenue consists of prepaid rent and deferred rent revenue, application and service fees and was $17.1 million and $15.0 million at December 31, 2014 and 2013, respectively.
	Due to the nature of the Trust’s business, accounts receivable result primarily from monthly billings of student rents. Payments are normally received within 30 days. Balances are considered past due when payment is not received on the contractual due date. Allowances for uncollectible accounts are established by management when it is determined that collection is doubtful. Such allowances are reviewed periodically based upon experience. The following table reconciles the allowance for doubtful accounts as of and for the years ended December 31, 2014, 2013 and 2012 (in thousands):
		2014			2013			2012
	Balance, beginning of period	$	96		$	142		$	133
	Provision for uncollectible accounts	1,263			1,379			1,128
	Deductions	(1,301		)	(1,425		)	(1,119		)
	Balance, end of period	$	58		$	96		$	142
	Third-party development services revenue — The Trust provides development consulting services in an agency capacity with third parties whereby the fee is determined based upon the total construction costs. Total fees vary from 3 – 5% of the total estimated costs, and the Trust typically receives a portion of the fees up front. These fees, including the up-front fee, are recognized using the percentage of completion method in proportion to the contract costs incurred by the owner over the course of construction of the respective projects. Occasionally, the development consulting contracts include a provision whereby the Trust can participate in project savings resulting from successful cost management efforts. These revenues are recognized once all contractual terms have been satisfied and no future performance requirements exist. This typically occurs after construction is complete. For the years ended December 31, 2014, 2013 and 2012, there was $1.2 million, $0.8 million and $0.2 million of revenue recognized, respectively, related to cost savings agreements on development projects.
	At December 31, 2014 and 2013, deferred development fees totaled $0.2 million and $2.8 million (including deferred development fees of $2.6 million related to the participating project at Johns Hopkins), respectively. In addition, deferred revenue included deferred interest income related to the participating project at Johns Hopkins of $5.6 million as of December 31, 2013.
	Third-party management services revenue — The Trust enters into management contracts to manage third-party collegiate housing communities. Management revenues are recognized when earned in accordance with each management contract. Incentive management fees are recognized when the incentive criteria have been met.
	Operating expense reimbursements — The Trust pays certain payroll and related costs to operate and manage third-party collegiate housing communities. Under the terms of the related management agreements, the third-party property owners reimburse these costs. The amounts billed to the third-party owners are recognized as revenue.
	Costs related to development consulting services
	Costs associated with the pursuit of third-party development consulting contracts are expensed as incurred, until such time that management has been notified of a contract award. At such time, the reimbursable costs are recorded as receivables and are reflected as other assets in the accompanying consolidated balance sheets (see Note 7).
	Costs directly associated with internal development projects are capitalized as part of the cost of the project.
	Advertising expense
	Advertising expenses are charged to income during the period incurred. The Trust does not use direct response advertising. Advertising expense was $4.7 million, $4.6 million and $3.2 million for the years ended December 31, 2014, 2013 and 2012, respectively.
	Segment information
The Trust discloses certain operating and financial data with respect to separate business activities within its enterprise. The Trust has identified three reportable business segments: collegiate housing leasing, collegiate housing development consulting services and collegiate housing management services.
Stock-based compensation
On May 4, 2011, the Trust’s stockholders approved the Education Realty Trust, Inc. 2012 Omnibus Equity Incentive Plan (the “2011 Plan”). The 2011 Plan replaced the Education Realty Trust, Inc. 2004 Incentive Plan (“2004 Plan”) in its entirety. The 2011 Plan is described more fully in Note 9. Compensation costs related to share-based payments are recognized in the accompanying consolidated financial statements in accordance with authoritative guidance.
Earnings per share
Earnings per Share - The Trust
Basic earnings per share is calculated by dividing net earnings available to common stockholders by weighted average shares of common stock outstanding. Diluted earnings per share is calculated similarly, except that it includes the dilutive effect of the assumed exercise of potentially dilutive securities. The Trust follows the authoritative guidance regarding the determination of whether certain instruments are participating securities. All unvested share-based payment awards that contain nonforfeitable rights to dividends or dividend equivalents are included in the computation of earnings per share under the two-class method. This results in shares of unvested restricted stock being included in the computation of basic earnings per share for all periods presented.
Earnings per OP Unit - EROP
Basic earnings per unit is calculated by dividing net earnings available to unitholders by the weighted average number of OP Units outstanding. Diluted earnings per unit is calculated similarly, except that it includes the dilutive effect of the assumed exercise of potentially dilutive securities. EROP follows the authoritative guidance regarding the determination of whether certain instruments are participating securities.
Fair value measurements
The Trust follows the guidance contained in FASB Accounting Standards Codification 820, Fair Value Measurements and Disclosures ("ASC 820"). Fair value is generally defined as the exit price at which an asset or liability could be exchanged in a current transaction between willing unrelated parties, other than in a forced liquidation or sale. ASC 820 establishes a fair value hierarchy, giving the highest priority to quoted prices in active markets and the lowest priority to unobservable data, and requires disclosures for assets and liabilities measured at fair value based on their level in the hierarchy.
The fair value framework requires the categorization of assets and liabilities into three levels based upon the assumptions used to value the assets or liabilities. Level 1 provides the most reliable measure of fair value, whereas Level 3 generally requires significant management judgment. The three levels are defined as follows:
•	Level 1 - Unadjusted quoted prices in active markets for identical assets or liabilities at the measurement date.
•	Level 2 - Observable inputs other than those included in Level 1, for example, quoted prices for similar assets or liabilities in active markets or quoted prices for identical assets or liabilities in inactive markets.
•	Level 3 - Unobservable inputs reflecting management's own assumption about the inputs used in pricing the asset or liability at the measurement date.
Derivative instruments and hedging activities
All derivative financial instruments are recorded on the balance sheet at fair value. Changes in fair value are recognized either in earnings or as other comprehensive income (loss), depending on whether the derivative has been designated as a fair value or cash flow hedge and whether it qualifies as part of a hedging relationship, the nature of the exposure being hedged, and how effective the derivative is at offsetting movements in underlying exposure. Hedge accounting is discontinued when it is determined that the derivative is no longer effective in offsetting changes in the fair value or cash flows of a hedged item; the derivative expires or is sold, terminated, or exercised; it is no longer probable that the forecasted transaction will occur; or management determines that designating the derivative as a hedging instrument is no longer appropriate. The Trust uses interest rate swaps to effectively convert a portion of its variable rate debt to fixed rate, thus reducing the impact of changes in interest rates on interest payments (see Notes 10 and 14). These instruments are designated as cash flow hedges and the interest differential to be paid or received is recorded as interest expense.
Recent accounting pronouncements
In February 2015, the FASB issued ASU 2015-02, "Consolidation (Topic 810)" ("ASU 2015-02"), which amends the consolidation requirements in ASC 810, Consolidation. ASU 2015-02 affects reporting entities that are required to evaluate whether they should consolidate certain legal entities. All legal entities are subject to reevaluation under the revised consolidation model. Specifically, the amendments: (i) modify the evaluation of whether limited partnerships and similar legal entities are variable interest entities ("VIEs") or voting interest entities, (ii) eliminate the presumption that a general partner should consolidate a limited partnership, (iii) affect the consolidated analysis of reporting entities that are involved with VIEs, particularly those that have fee arrangements and related party relationships and (iv) provide a scope exception for certain entities. ASU 2015-02 is effective for annual reporting periods beginning after December 15, 2015, and interim periods within those fiscal years. The Trust is currently evaluating the provisions of this guidance.
In May 2014, the FASB issued ASU 2014-09, "Revenue from Contracts with Customers (Topic 606)" ("ASU 2014-09"). The guidance outlines a single comprehensive model for entities to use in accounting for revenue arising from contracts with customers and supersedes most current revenue recognition guidance, including the guidance on real estate derecognition for most transactions. ASU 2014-09 provides that an entity should recognize revenue to depict the transfer of promised goods or services to customers in an amount that reflects the consideration to which the entity expects to be entitled in exchange for those goods and services. ASU 2014-09 is effective for annual reporting periods beginning after December 15, 2016, and interim periods within those years and permits the use of either the retrospective or cumulative effect transition method. The Trust is currently evaluating the provisions of this guidance.
In April 2014, the FASB issued ASU 2014-08, "Presentation of Financial Statements (Topic 205) and Property, Plant and Equipment (Topic 360) - Reporting Discontinued Operations and Disclosures of Disposals of Components of an Entity" ("ASU 2014-08"). ASU 2014-08 changes the threshold for disclosing discontinued operations and the related disclosure requirements. Pursuant to ASU 2014-08, only disposals representing a strategic shift, such as a major line of business, a major geographical area or a major equity investment, should be presented as a discontinued operation. The guidance is to be applied prospectively to new disposals and new classifications of disposal groups as held for sale after the effective date. ASU 2014-08 is effective for annual periods beginning on or after December 15, 2014 with early adoption permitted. The Trust adopted ASU 2014-08 as of January 1, 2014.

Income_taxes

Income taxes	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2014
Income Tax Disclosure [Abstract]
Income taxes	Income taxes
	Deferred income taxes result from temporary differences between the carrying amounts of assets and liabilities of the TRSs for financial reporting purposes and the amounts used for income tax purposes.
	Significant components of the deferred tax assets and liabilities as of December 31, 2014 and 2013 are as follows (in thousands):
		2014			2013
	Deferred tax assets:
	Deferred revenue	$	—		$	1,022
	Accrued expenses	381			252
	Straight line rent	343			366
	Restricted stock amortization	1,076			85
	Net operating loss carryforwards	1,346			418
	Total deferred tax assets	3,146			2,143
	Deferred tax liabilities:
	Depreciation and amortization	(526		)	(634		)
	Total deferred tax liabilities	(526		)	(634		)
	Net deferred tax assets	$	2,620		$	1,509
	Significant components of the income tax provision (benefit) for the years ended December 31, 2014, 2013 and 2012 are as follows (in thousands):
		2014			2013			2012
	Deferred:
	Federal	$	108		$	(296	)	$	895
	State	57			36			148
	Deferred expense (benefit)	165			(260		)	1,043
	Current:
	Federal	(52		)	312			(1,326		)
	State	148			151			(601		)
	Current (benefit) expense	96			463			(1,927		)
	Total (benefit) provision	$	261		$	203		$	(884	)
	TRS losses subject to tax consisted of $0.9 million, $0.2 million and $1.9 million for the years ended December 31, 2014, 2013 and 2012, respectively. The reconciliation of income tax attributable to income before noncontrolling interest computed at the U.S. statutory rate to income tax provision is as follows (in thousands):
		2014			2013			2012
	Tax provision at U.S. statutory rates on TRS income subject to tax	$	71		$	15		$	(566	)
	State income tax, net of federal benefit	34			126			(312		)
	Other	156			62			(6		)
	Tax provision (benefit)	$	261		$	203		$	(884	)
	The TRS has net operating loss carryforwards that expire at various dates through fiscal year 2034. The Trust has assessed the need for a valuation allowance against its deferred tax assets and determined such is not necessary because it is more likely than not the deferred tax assets will be fully realized.
	The Trust had no unrecognized tax benefits as of December 31, 2014, 2013 and 2012. As of December 31, 2014, the Trust did not expect to record any unrecognized tax benefits. The Trust, and its subsidiaries, file federal and state income tax returns. As of December 31, 2014, open tax years generally included tax years for 2010, 2011, and 2012. The Trust’s policy is to include interest and penalties related to unrecognized tax benefits in general and administrative expenses. As of December 31, 2014, 2013 and 2012, the Trust had no interest or penalties recorded related to unrecognized tax benefits.

Acquisition_and_development_of

Acquisition and development of real estate investments	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2014
Real Estate [Abstract]
Acquisition and development of real estate investments	Acquisition and development of real estate investments
	Acquisition of collegiate housing properties
	2014 Acquisitions
	During the year ended December 31, 2014, the following collegiate housing property acquisitions were completed:
	Name		Primary University Served		Acquisition		# of Beds		# of Units		Contract Price (in thousands)
					Date
	109 Tower		Florida International University Miami, Florida		Aug-14		542		149		$	43,500
	District on Apache		Arizona State University Tempe, Arizona		Sep-14		900		279		$	89,800
	Combined acquisition costs for these purchases were $0.9 million and are included in general and administrative expenses in the accompanying consolidated statements of income and comprehensive income for the year ended December 31, 2014. These acquisitions were funded with proceeds from the follow-on equity offering in June 2014 (see Note 2), draws on the Fourth Amended Revolver and the Fifth Amended Revolver (see Note 4) and cash on hand. A summary follows of the fair values of the assets acquired and the liabilities assumed as of the dates of the acquisitions (in thousands):
			109 Tower				District on Apache				Total
	Collegiate housing properties		$	43,384			$	89,216			$	132,600
	In-place leases		—				643				643
	Other assets		200				36				236
	Current liabilities		(746		)		(1,341		)		(2,087		)
	Total net assets acquired		$	42,838			$	88,554			$	131,392
	The contracted purchase price of $133.3 million, reflected in the table above, net of $2.1 million in assumed liabilities, represents a net asset value of $131.2 million. The $0.2 million difference between this amount and the net assets reflected in the second table above represents working capital and other assets that were not part of the contractual purchase price, but were acquired.
	During 2014, the Trust also purchased the remaining 30% of its joint venture partner's interest in The Retreat at Oxford and a portion of its joint venture partner's interest in Roosevelt Point (see Note 11).
	2013 Acquisitions
	During the year ended December 31, 2013, the following collegiate housing community acquisitions were completed:
	Name		Primary University Served		Acquisition		# of Beds			# of Units			Contract Price (in thousands)
					Date
	The Cottages on Lindberg		Purdue University West Lafayette, Indiana		Aug-13		745			193			$	36,000
	The Retreat at State College		Pennsylvania State University State College, Pennsylvania		Sep-13		587			138			$	56,189
	The Varsity		University of Michigan Ann Arbor, Michigan		Dec-13		415			181			$	53,950
	Combined acquisition costs for these purchases were $0.4 million and are included in general and administrative costs in the accompanying consolidated statement of income and comprehensive income for the year ended December 31, 2013. These acquisitions were funded with assumed debt of $32.4 million and proceeds from draws on the Fourth Amended Revolver.
	A summary follows of the fair values of the assets acquired and the liabilities assumed as of the dates of the acquisitions (in thousands):
		The Cottages on Lindberg				The Retreat at State College				The Varsity				Total
	Collegiate housing properties	$	35,704			$	55,812			$	53,630			$	145,146
	Other assets	347				442				481				1,270
	Current liabilities	(689		)		(405		)		(449		)		(1,543		)
	Mortgage debt	—				—				(32,420		)		(32,420		)
	Total net assets acquired	$	35,362			$	55,849			$	21,242			$	112,453
	The difference between the collegiate housing community acquisition contract prices of $146.1 million and the total net assets acquired of $112.5 million is $1.2 million of net assets purchased or liabilities assumed and $32.4 million of assumed debt (see Note 10) in addition to fixed assets. In the accompanying consolidated statements of cash flows, $3.0 million was excluded from cash outflows for the 2013 acquisitions as this deposit for The Varsity was paid in 2012.
	In September 2013, the Trust also purchased our joint venture partner's 10% non-controlling interest in the collegiate housing community referred to as East Edge located near the University of Alabama for $6.9 million in cash (see Note 11). The Trust now owns 100% of the community. This acquisition was funded by borrowing on the Fourth Amended Revolver and existing cash.
	2012 Acquisitions
	During the year ended December 31, 2012, the following collegiate housing community acquisitions were completed:
	Name		Primary University Served		Acquisition		# of Beds			# of Units			Contract Price (in thousands)
					Date
	The Reserve on Stinson (1)		University of Oklahoma		Jan-12		612			204			$	22,954
			Norman, Oklahoma
	The Province		East Carolina University Greenville, North Carolina		Sep-12		728			235			$	50,000
	The District on 5th		University of Arizona		Oct-12		764			208			$	66,442
			Tucson, Arizona
	Campus Village (2)		Michigan State University		Oct-12		355			106			$	20,900
			East Lansing, Michigan
	The Province		Kent State University		Nov-12		596			246			$	45,000
			Kent, Ohio
	The Suites at Overton Park		Texas Tech University		Dec-12		465			298			$	37,000
			Lubbock, Texas
	The Centre at Overton Park		Texas Tech University		Dec-12		400			278			$	37,000
			Lubbock, Texas
	-1	The Trust had a 10% equity investment in the entity that previously owned The Reserve on Stinson collegiate housing community and also managed the property prior to the acquisition.
	-2	The Trust entered into a 32-year ground lease, with the option to extend the lease 20 additional years subject to certain conditions, which requires an increase in annual rent expense to be determined on predetermined adjustment dates based on the consumer price index for the life of the lease.
	Combined acquisition costs for these purchases were $1.1 million and are included in general and administrative costs in the accompanying consolidated statement of income and comprehensive income for the year ended December 31, 2012. These acquisitions were funded with assumed debt of $48.5 million and existing cash, including cash proceeds from an equity offering and sales of collegiate housing communities (see Note 5).
	A summary follows of the fair values of the assets acquired and the liabilities assumed as of the dates of the acquisitions (in thousands):
		The Province at East Carolina				The District on 5th				The Suites and Centre at Overton Park				Other				Total
	Collegiate housing properties	$	49,609			$	65,997			$	76,678			$	88,129			$	280,413
	Other assets	502				475				4,830				971				6,778
	Current liabilities	(531		)		(545		)		(1,651		)		(1,356		)		(4,083		)
	Mortgage debt	—				—				(51,625		)		—				(51,625		)
	Total net assets acquired	$	49,580			$	65,927			$	28,232			$	87,744			$	231,483
	The difference between the collegiate housing community acquisition contract prices of $279.3 million and the total net assets acquired of $231.5 million is $48.5 million of debt assumed in connection with the acquisition of the Suites at Overton Park and the Centre at Overton Park collegiate housing communities and $0.7 million of net assets purchased or liabilities assumed in addition to fixed assets and debt.
	A summary of the actual revenue and net income from the 2014, 2013 and 2012 property acquisitions included in the accompanying consolidated statements of income and comprehensive income since the respective dates of acquisition is as follows (in thousands):
			Years Ended December 31,
		2014				2013				2012
2014 Acquisitions
Revenue		$	4,683
Net income		$	1,403
2013 Acquisitions
Revenue						$	3,221
Net income						$	911
2012 Acquisitions
Revenue										$	7,830
Net income										$	1,549
The following unaudited pro forma information assumes the acquisitions occurred as of the first day of the prior period and is not indicative of results that would have occurred or which may occur (in thousands, except per share amounts):
		Years Ended December 31,
		2014				2013				2012				2011
2014 Acquisitions
Total revenue		$	231,961			$	187,884
Net income attributable to the Trust		$	50,794			$	5,714
Net income attributable to common shareholders - basic		$	1.18			$	0.15
Net income attributable to common shareholders - diluted		$	1.17			$	0.15
Net income attributable to EROP		$	51,184			$	5,805
Net income attributable to unitholders - basic		$	0.39			$	0.05
Net income attributable to unitholders - diluted		$	0.39			$	0.05
2013 Acquisitions
Total revenue						$	187,961			$	139,714
Net income attributable to the Trust						$	4,841			$	9,229
Net income attributable to common shareholders - basic						$	0.13			$	0.27
Net income attributable to common shareholders - diluted						$	0.13			$	0.27
Net income attributable to EROP						$	4,926			$	9,363
Net income attributable to unitholders - basic						$	0.04			$	0.09
Net income attributable to unitholders - diluted						$	0.04			$	0.09
2012 Acquisitions
Total revenue										$	150,370			$	119,456
Net income attributable to the Trust										$	10,568			$	(12,490	)
Net income attributable to common shareholders - basic										$	0.31			$	(0.50	)
Net income attributable to common shareholders - diluted										$	0.31			$	(0.50	)
Net income attributable to EROP										$	10,709			$	(12,452	)
Net income attributable to unitholders - basic										$	0.1			$	(0.16	)
Net income attributable to unitholders - diluted										$	0.1			$	(0.16	)
Development of collegiate housing properties
During 2014, the Trust developed the following communities. The costs incurred to date represent the balance capitalized in collegiate housing properties, net as of December 31, 2014 (dollars in thousands):
											Years Ended December 31,
Name		Primary University Served		Bed Count			Costs Incurred-to-Date				Internal Development Costs Capitalized								Interest Costs Capitalized
											2014				2013				2014			2013
The Lotus (1)		University of Colorado		195			$	27,800			$	147			$	95			$	272		$	120
Haggin Hall (2)		University of Kentucky		396			23,840				121				115				341			62
Champions Court I (2)		University of Kentucky		740			47,368				156				110				833			389
Champions Court II (2)		University of Kentucky		427			24,329				88				95				434			205
Woodland Glen I & II (2)		University of Kentucky		818			45,730				131				104				765			350
605 West (3)		Duke University		384			45,258				128				116				650			322
The Oaks on the Square - Phase III (4)		University of Connecticut		116			12,482				90				22				87			51
Total owned communities				3,076			226,807				861				657				3,382			1,499
The Marshall (5)		University of Minnesota		994			93,976				124				62				410			23
Total joint ventures				994			93,976				124				62				410			23
Total				4,070			$	320,783			$	985			$	719			$	3,792		$	1,522
(1) In November 2011, the Trust purchased a collegiate housing property near the University of Colorado, Boulder (The Lotus). The Trust developed additional housing on the existing land, which opened for the 2014/2015 lease year.
(2) In December 2011, the Trust was selected by the University of Kentucky to develop, own and manage new collegiate housing on its campus. This project will be financed through the ONE PlanSM. Phase I opened in August 2013 and Phase II, which includes these communities, opened for the 2014-2015 lease year.
(3) In March 2013, the Trust announced an agreement with Javelin 19 Investments, LLC ("Javelin 19") to develop, own and manage a new collegiate housing property near Duke University, 605 West. The Trust is the majority owner and managing member of the joint venture and manages the community, which opened in August 2014. For a period of five years from the date on which the property receives its initial certificate of occupancy, Javelin 19 has the right to require the Trust to purchase Javelin 19’s 10% interest in the joint venture at a price to be determined.
(4) In 2010, LeylandAlliance LLC and the Trust entered into an agreement to develop the first two phases of Storrs Center, a mixed-use town center project, adjacent to the University of Connecticut. The Trust developed, owns and manages the collegiate housing properties in these first two phases and both phases include commercial and residential offerings. The first phase opened in August 2012 and the second phase opened in August 2013. LeylandAlliance LLC and the Trust subsequently entered into additional agreements to develop the third and fourth phases of the project. The third phase opened in August 2014 and the fourth phase is under development.
(5) In 2012, Trust entered into an agreement to develop, own and manage a mixed-use development located two blocks from University of Minnesota. The Trust holds a 50% interest in the joint venture and manages the community, which opened in August 2014. The Trust's investment in the property of $18.4 million is classified as other assets in the accompanying consolidated balance sheets.
During 2013, the Trust developed the following communities. The costs incurred to date represent the balance capitalized in collegiate housing properties, net as of December 31, 2013 (dollars in thousands):
											Years Ended December 31,
Name		Primary University Served		Bed Count			Costs Incurred-to-date				Internal Development Costs Capitalized								Interest Costs Capitalized
											2013				2012				2013			2012
2400 Nueces (1)		The University of Texas at Austin		622			$	69,969			$	295			$	132			$	1,247		$	884
Central Hall I & II (2)		University of Kentucky		601			25,401				132				230				439			150
The Oaks on the Square - Phase II (3)		University of Connecticut		250			29,262				91				81				582			751
The Retreat at Oxford (4)		University of Mississippi		668			35,984				49				55				418			270
Roosevelt Point (5)		Arizona State University - Downtown Phoenix		609			50,596				74				100				669			535
Total owned communities				2,750			$	211,212			$	641			$	598			$	3,355		$	2,590
(1) In July 2010, the University of Texas Board of Regents selected the Trust to be the ground tenant to develop, own and manage a new high rise collegiate housing community near the core of the University of Texas at Austin campus (2400 Nueces). The community opened in August 2013.
(2) In December 2011, the Trust was selected by the University of Kentucky to develop, own and manage new collegiate housing on its campus. This project will be financed through the Trust’s ONE PlanSM. Phase I, which includes this community, opened in August 2013.
(3) In September of 2010, LeylandAlliance LLC and the Trust entered into an agreement to develop the first two phases of Storrs Center, a mixed-use town center project, adjacent to the University of Connecticut. The Trust developed, owns and manages the collegiate housing properties in these first two phases and both phases include commercial and residential offerings. The first phase opened in August 2012 and the second phase opened in August 2013.
(4) In January 2012, the Trust entered into a joint venture agreement with Landmark Properties to develop, own and manage a new cottage-
style collegiate housing community near the University of Mississippi campus (The Retreat at Oxford). The community opened in August 2013. On August 29, 2014, the Trust purchased its joint venture partner's 30% interest. This collegiate housing property is now wholly-owned by the Trust.
(5) In March 2012, the financing was finalized for the agreement executed in June 2011 between the Trust and Summa West, LLC to develop, own and manage a new collegiate housing community near Arizona State University-Downtown Phoenix campus (Roosevelt Point). On April 15, 2014, the Trust purchased a portion of its joint venture partner's interest. As a result of this purchase, the Trust now holds a 95% ownership in this collegiate housing property. The Trust's 95% share of the total costs incurred is $48.1 million.
The following represents a summary of active developments, including development costs and costs capitalized (dollars in thousands):
								Years Ended December 31,
Name		Primary University Served		Spend-to-Date				Internal Development Costs Capitalized								Interest Costs Capitalized
								2014				2013				2014				2013
Woodland Glen III, IV & V		University of Kentucky		$	76,121			$	214			$	138			$	1,304			$	67
The Oaks on the Square - Phase IV		University of Connecticut		14,316				101				—				149				—
The Retreat at Louisville (1)		University of Louisville		20,650				77				—				103				—
Limestone Park I & II		University of Kentucky		9,615				212				—				78				—
Retreat at Oxford - Phase II		University of Mississippi		—				—				—				—				—
Total - owned communities				120,702				604				138				1,634				67
Georgia Heights (2)		University of Georgia		26,871				184				23				274				95
Total - joint venture				26,871				184				23				274				95
Total active projects under development				$	147,573			$	788			$	161			$	1,908			$	162
(1) In June 2014, the Trust announced an agreement with a subsidiary of Landmark Property Holdings, LLC ("Landmark") to develop, own
and manage cottage-style collegiate housing property adjacent to The University of Louisville. The Trust is the majority owner and
managing member of the joint venture and will manage the community once completed.
(2) In 2013, Trust entered into an agreement to develop, own and manage a mixed-use development adjacent to the main entrance of the University of Georgia. The Trust holds a 50% interest in the joint venture and will manage the community once the development is completed. The Trust's
investment in the property of $10.2 million is classified as other assets in the accompanying consolidated balance sheets.
All costs related to the development of collegiate housing communities are classified as assets under development in the accompanying consolidated balance sheets until the community is completed and opened. Expenditures for assets under development accrued in accounts payable and accrued expenses total $34.0 thousand and $18.5 million, respectively, as of December 31, 2014. As of December 31, 2013, expenditures for assets under development accrued in accounts payable and accrued expenses total $0.4 million and $15.0 million, respectively.

Disposition_of_real_estate_inv

Disposition of real estate investments and discontinued operations	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2014
Discontinued Operations and Disposal Groups [Abstract]
Disposition of real estate investments and discontinued operations	Disposition of real estate investments and discontinued operations
	During the year ended December 31, 2014, the following collegiate housing communities were sold:
	•	The Reserve on West 31st located in Lawrence, Kansas;
	•	College Station at West Lafayette located in West Lafayette, Indiana;
	•	Pointe West located in Cayce, South Carolina;
	•	The Reserve on South College located in Auburn, Alabama;
	•	The Pointe at South Florida located in Tampa, Florida
	•	Avenue at Southern located in Statesboro, Georgia; and
	•	Commons on Kinnear located in Columbus, Ohio.
	The aggregate sales price of these dispositions was approximately $138.5 million. The Trust received net proceeds of approximately $116.3 million, after payoffs of mortgage debt of $16.7 million (see Note 10) and closing costs. The Trust recognized a $33.2 million gain on these dispositions.
	In 2013, The Pointe at Western collegiate housing community located in Kalamazoo, Michigan and the College Grove collegiate housing community located in Murfreesboro, Tennessee were sold for an aggregate sales price of $41.7 million. The Trust received proceeds of $40.2 million after closing costs. A $3.9 million gain on the 2013 dispositions was recognized and is reflected in discontinued operations in the accompanying consolidated statements of income and comprehensive income.
	In 2012, The Reserve at Star Pass and NorthPointe, both located in Tucson, Arizona, and The Reserve on Frankford, located in Lubbock, Texas, were sold for an aggregate sales price of $69.5 million, resulting in net proceeds of approximately $67.3 million after prorations and closing costs.
	As discussed in Note 2, the accounting guidance related to the presentation of discontinued operations was adopted as of January 1, 2014. The seven property dispositions in 2014 discussed above and any subsequent one-off dispositions are not expected to qualify for treatment as discontinued operations unless the dispositions qualify as a strategic shift in the Trust's business pursuant to ASU 2014-08. Accordingly, the historical operations of the 2014 property dispositions are presented in continuing operations for all periods presented as the adoption of the guidance is on a prospective basis. The results of operations of the property dispositions during 2013 and 2012 are included in discontinued operations in the accompanying consolidated statements of income and comprehensive income for the years ended December 31, 2013 and 2012.
	The following table summarizes the income (loss) from discontinued operations, net of noncontrolling interests, and the related realized gains on sales of real estate from discontinued operations, net of noncontrolling interests, for the years ended December 31, 2013 and 2012 (in thousands):
		2013			2012
	Collegiate housing leasing revenue	$	5,409		$	16,229
	Collegiate housing leasing operating expenses	(3,014		)	(8,671		)
	Depreciation and amortization	(1,767		)	(4,634		)
	Loss on impairment	(5,001		)	—
	Interest income	4			—
	Noncontrolling interests	31			(25		)
	Income (loss) from discontinued operations attributable to Education Realty Trust, Inc.	$	(4,338	)	$	2,899
	Gain on sale of collegiate housing properties	$	3,913		$	5,496
	Noncontrolling interests	(28		)	(42		)
	Gain on sale of collegiate housing properties attributable to Education Realty Trust, Inc.	$	3,885		$	5,454

Collegiate_housing_properties_

Collegiate housing properties and assets under development	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2014
Real Estate [Abstract]
Collegiate housing properties and assets under development	Collegiate housing properties and assets under development
	Collegiate housing properties and assets under development consist of the following as of December 31, 2014 and 2013, respectively (in thousands):
		2014			2013
	Land	$	129,111		$	126,273
	Land improvements	64,230			73,618
	Leasehold improvements	212			74
	Construction in progress	122,209			115,372
	Buildings	1,527,973			1,322,892
	Furniture, fixtures and equipment	73,023			71,624
		1,916,758			1,709,853
	Less accumulated depreciation	(210,047		)	(204,181		)
	Collegiate housing properties and assets under development, net	$	1,706,711		$	1,505,672
	Following is certain information related to investment in collegiate housing properties and assets under development as of December 31, 2014 (amounts in thousands):
						Initial Cost									Total Costs
	Property(6)		Encumbrances			Land			Buildings		Total		Cost		Land		Buildings		Total		Accumulated		Date of
									and				Capitalized				and				Depreciation(7)		Acquisition/
									Improvements				Subsequently				Improvements						Construction
	Players Club		—			$727			$7,498		$8,225		$2,400		$727		$9,898		$10,625		$3,448		1/31/05
	The Commons at Knoxville (1)		$17,471			4,630			18,386		23,016		3,313		4,585		21,699		26,284		7,990		1/31/05
	The Lofts		—			2,801			34,117		36,918		2,879		2,801		36,996		39,797		11,760		1/31/05
	The Pointe at Penn State		—			2,151			35,094		37,245		5,155		2,151		40,249		42,400		13,602		1/31/05
	The Reserve at Athens(1)		10,896			1,740			17,985		19,725		2,172		1,740		20,157		21,897		6,517		1/31/05
	The Reserve at Columbia(3)		16,137			1,071			26,134		27,205		4,849		1,071		30,983		32,054		10,607		1/31/05
	The Reserve at Tallahassee		—			2,743			21,176		23,919		963		2,743		22,139		24,882		9,350		1/31/05
	The Reserve on Perkins (1)		13,658			913			15,795		16,708		4,092		913		19,887		20,800		7,513		1/31/05
	University Towers		34,000			—			28,652		28,652		16,059		2,364		44,711		47,075		14,854		1/31/05
	Campus Creek		—			2,251			21,604		23,855		3,315		2,251		24,919		27,170		8,733		2/22/05
	Campus Lodge		—			2,746			44,415		47,161		3,059		2,746		47,474		50,220		15,004		6/7/05
	Cape Trails		—			445			11,207		11,652		2,195		445		13,402		13,847		3,906		1/1/06
	Carrollton Place		—			682			12,166		12,848		1,839		682		14,005		14,687		4,074		1/1/06
	River Place (2)		8,268			837			17,746		18,583		2,941		837		20,687		21,524		6,022		1/1/06
	The Reserve at Saluki Pointe (2)		13,428			1,099			32,377		33,476		1,581		1,099		33,958		35,057		6,808		8/1/08
	University Apartments on Colvin		—			—			25,792		25,792		230		—		26,022		26,022		4,765		8/1/09
	2400 Nueces(4)		—			—			7,436		7,436		63,118		—		70,554		70,554		3,774		8/1/10
	The Oaks on the Square - Phase I and II		—			1,800			15,189		16,989		34,541		1,800		49,730		51,530		3,354		9/30/10
	GrandMarc at the Corner		—			—			45,384		45,384		1,461		—		46,845		46,845		6,396		10/22/10
	Campus West		—			—			6,127		6,127		21,208		—		27,335		27,335		2,773		3/1/11
	East Edge		—			10,420			10,783		21,203		21,221		10,420		32,004		42,424		3,414		3/1/11
	Jefferson Commons		—			1,420			4,915		6,335		240		1,420		5,155		6,575		627		3/15/11
	Wertland Square		—			3,230			13,285		16,515		604		3,230		13,889		17,119		1,675		3/15/11
	The Berk		—			2,687			13,718		16,405		701		2,687		14,419		17,106		1,851		5/23/11
	Roosevelt Point		33,348			3,093			1,716		4,809		47,203		3,093		48,919		52,012		2,476		7/1/11
	University Village Towers		—			3,434			34,424		37,858		322		3,434		34,746		38,180		3,406		9/22/11
	Irish Row		—			2,637			24,679		27,316		435		2,637		25,114		27,751		2,491		11/1/11
	The Lotus		—			5,245			2,192		7,437		20,363		5,245		22,555		27,800		343		11/14/11
	GrandMarc at Westberry Place		—			—			53,935		53,935		1,331		—		55,266		55,266		5,168		12/8/11
	3949		—			3,822			24,448		28,270		8,663		3,822		33,111		36,933		2,396		12/21/11
	The Reserve on Stinson (1)		13,498			2,111			20,609		22,720		1,068		2,111		21,677		23,788		2,596		1/27/12
	Central Hall I &		—			—			—		—		25,554		—		25,554		25,554		1,628		6/1/12
	II(5)
	The Retreat at Oxford		—			4,743			—		4,743		31,489		4,743		31,489		36,232		1,635		6/14/12
	605 West		—			4,794			—		4,794		40,464		4,794		40,464		45,258		696		9/1/12
	The Province		—			4,436			45,173		49,609		278		4,436		45,451		49,887		3,743		9/21/12
	The District on 5th		—			2,601			63,396		65,997		222		2,601		63,618		66,219		5,478		10/4/12
	Campus Village		—			2,650			18,077		20,727		847		2,650		18,924		21,574		2,129		10/19/12
	Champions Court I(5)		—			—			—		—		47,368		—		47,368		47,368		449		11/1/12
	Champions Court II(5)		—			—			—		—		24,329		—		24,329		24,329		239		11/1/12
	Haggin Hall I(5)		—			—			—		—		23,840		—		23,840		23,840		219		11/1/12
	Woodland Glen I & II(5)		—			—			—		—		45,730		—		45,730		45,730		435		11/1/12
	The Province at Kent State		—			4,239			40,441		44,680		97		4,239		40,538		44,777		3,240		11/16/12
						Initial Cost									Total Costs
	Property(6)		Encumbrances			Land			Buildings		Total		Cost		Land		Buildings		Total		Accumulated		Date of
									and				Capitalized				and				Depreciation(7)		Acquisition/
									Improvements				Subsequently				Improvements						Construction
The Centre at Overton Park		22,697			3,781			35,232		39,013		1,013		3,781		36,245		40,026		2,419		12/7/12
The Suites at Overton Park		24,216			4,384			33,281		37,665		442		4,384		33,723		38,107		2,632		12/7/12
Woodland Glen III, IV & V(5)		—			—			—		—		76,121		—		76,121		76,121		119		5/1/13
The Oaks on the Square - Phase III		—			1,531			—		1,531		10,951		1,531		10,951		12,482		1,856		2/13/13
The Cottages on Lindberg		—			1,800			—		1,800		34,048		1,800		34,048		35,848		2,327		8/28/13
The Retreat at State College		—			6,251			—		6,251		49,758		6,251		49,758		56,009		1,661		9/11/13
The Varsity		32,420			3,300			50,330		53,630		167		3,300		50,497		53,797		—		12/19/13
Limestone Park I & II(5)		—			—			—		—		9,615		—		9,615		9,615		—		12/31/13
Storrs II		—			3,308			—		3,308		11,008		3,308		11,008		14,316		—		6/1/14
Retreat at Louisville		8,114			4,257			—		4,257		16,393		4,257		16,393		20,650		—		7/1/14
109 Towers		—			1,779			—		1,779		42,415		1,779		42,415		44,194		461		8/12/14
District on Apache		—			8,203			81,016		89,219		47		8,203		81,063		89,266		988		9/15/14
Totals		$	248,151		$	126,792		$	1,015,930	$	1,142,722	$	771,717	$	129,111	$	1,787,647	$	1,916,758	$	210,047
(1)	The Commons at Knoxville, The Reserve on Stinson, The Reserve at Perkins and The Reserve at Athens are cross-collateralized against the $55.5 million outstanding loan discussed in Note 10.
(2)	The Reserve at Saluki Pointe and River Place are cross-collateralized against the $21.7 million outstanding loan discussed in Note 10.
(3)	The Reserve at Columbia is collateralized against the $16.1 million outstanding loan discussed in Note 10.
(4)	Pursuant to the ground lease for 2400 Nueces, the lessor has the option to purchase the Trust's leasehold estate and interest in the property at certain times during the term of the ground lease for a pre-determined amount.
(5)	Pursuant to the ground lease for the respective property, the lessor has the option to terminate the lease at certain times during the term of the ground lease for a termination fee.
(6)	All properties are of garden-style collegiate housing communities except for University Towers which is a traditional residence hall, 2400 Nueces and The Varsity, which are high-rise buildings, The Retreat at Oxford, The Cottages on Lindberg and The Retreat at State College, which are cottage-style communities, and The Oaks on the Square, which will be a mixed-use town center and main street development project located in Storrs, Connecticut.
(7)	Assets have useful lives ranging from 3 to 40 years.
The following table reconciles the historical cost of the Trust’s investment in collegiate housing properties and assets under development for the years ended December 31, 2014, 2013 and 2012 (in thousands):
	2014			2013			2012
Balance, beginning of period	$	1,709,853		$	1,395,576		$	1,026,503
Collegiate housing acquisitions or completed developments	349,841			290,881			353,966
Collegiate housing dispositions	(154,545		)	(55,880		)	(104,117		)
Impairment loss	(12,733		)	(5,001		)	—
Additions	24,792			84,404			120,058
Disposals	(450		)	(127		)	(834		)
Balance, end of period	$	1,916,758		$	1,709,853		$	1,395,576
The following table reconciles the accumulated depreciation for the years ended December 31, 2014, 2013 and 2012 (in thousands):
	2014			2013			2012
Balance, beginning of period	$	204,181		$	175,310		$	166,336
Depreciation	57,166			47,693			35,708
Disposals	(396		)	(115		)	(771		)
Collegiate housing dispositions	(50,904		)	(18,707		)	(25,963		)
Balance, end of period	$	210,047		$	204,181		$	175,310
When determined that an asset is not recoverable, management estimates fair value using discounted cash flow models, market appraisals if available, and other market participant data. There were no impairment losses in 2012. During 2014 and 2013, management determined that the carrying value of various collegiate housing communities may not be recoverable. The fair value of these properties was estimated and management recorded impairment losses during the years ended December 31, 2014 and 2013 of $12.7 million and $5.0 million, respectively. As the related properties were subsequently sold, the impairment loss is recorded in discontinued operations for 2013 and continuing operations for 2014.

Other_assets

Other assets	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2014
Property, Plant and Equipment and Other Assets [Abstract]
Other assets	Other assets
	Other assets consist of the following as of December 31, 2014 and 2013 (in thousands):
		2014		2013
	Accounts receivable related to pre-development costs	$	2,061	$	2,222
	Receivable for construction loan guarantee (see Note 2)	—		3,000
	Prepaid expenses	2,295		1,244
	Deferred tax asset	2,100		2,143
	Deferred financing costs	9,148		6,192
	Investments in unconsolidated entities	29,450		21,175
	Corporate assets, net (1)	13,745		3,249
	Other	10,950		8,227
	Total other assets	$	69,749	$	47,452
	(1) As of December 31, 2014 and 2013, the Trust had corporate assets with a historical cost of $17.3 million and $5.8 million, and accumulated depreciation of $3.5 million and $2.5 million, respectively. Depreciation is computed using the straight-line method for financial reporting purposes over the estimated useful lives of the related assets, generally 3 to 7 years. Depreciation expense totaled $0.9 million, $0.6 million and $0.6 million for the years ended December 31, 2014, 2013 and 2012, respectively.

Investments_in_unconsolidated_

Investments in unconsolidated entities	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2014
Equity Method Investments and Joint Ventures [Abstract]
Investments in unconsolidated entities	Investments in unconsolidated entities
	As of December 31, 2014 and 2013, the Trust had investments in the following unconsolidated joint ventures (see Note 2), which are accounted for under the equity method:
	•	a 50% interest in 1313 5th Street MN Holdings, LLC, a Delaware limited liability company, which owns the collegiate housing property referred to as The Marshall at the University of Minnesota;
	•	a 50% interest in West Clayton Athens GA Owner, LLC, a Delaware limited liability company, which owns the collegiate housing property referred to as Georgia Heights at the University of Georgia;
	•	a 10% interest in Elauwit Networks, a South Carolina limited liability company; and
	•	a 25% interest in University Village-Greensboro LLC, a Delaware limited liability company, which owns the collegiate housing property referred to as University Village - Greensboro.
	The Trust participates in major operating decisions of, but does not control, these entities; therefore, the equity method is used to account for these investments.
	The following is a summary of financial information related to unconsolidated joint ventures (in thousands):
	Financial Position:	2014			2013
	As of December 31,
	Total assets	$	148,117		$	95,380
	Total liabilities	99,714			58,025
	Equity	$	48,403		$	37,355
	Investment in unconsolidated entities	$	29,450		$	21,175
	Results of Operations:	2014			2013			2012
	For the years ended December 31,
	Revenues	$	31,537		$	22,829		$	3,847
	Net loss	(1,785		)	(1,824		)	(4,013		)
	Equity in losses of unconsolidated entities	$	(710	)	$	(203	)	$	(363	)
	As of December 31, 2014 and 2013, liabilities are recorded totaling $1.7 million related to investments in unconsolidated entities where distributions exceeded contributions and equity in earnings and the Trust has historically provided financial support; therefore, these investments are classified in accrued expenses in the accompanying consolidated balance sheets (see Note 2).

Incentive_plans

Incentive plans	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2014
Disclosure of Compensation Related Costs, Share-based Payments [Abstract]
Incentive plans	Incentive plans
	On May 4, 2011, the Trust’s stockholders approved the Education Realty Trust, Inc. 2011 Omnibus Equity Incentive Plan. The purpose of the 2011 Plan is to promote the interests of the Trust and its stockholders by attracting, motivating and retaining talented executive officers, employees and directors of the Trust and linking their compensation to the long-term interests of the Trust and its stockholders. The 2011 Plan replaced the Education Realty Trust, Inc. 2004 Incentive Plan in its entirety and authorizes the grant of the 105,000 shares that remained available for grant under the 2004 plan, as well as 1,049,167 additional shares. As of December 31, 2014, the Trust had 820,430 shares of its common stock reserved for issuance pursuant to the 2011 Plan. Automatic increases in the number of shares available for issuance are not provided. The 2011 Plan provides for the grant of stock options, restricted stock, restricted stock units (“RSUs”), stock appreciation rights, other stock-based incentive awards to employees, directors and other key persons providing services to the Trust.
	A restricted stock award is an award of the Trust’s common stock that is subject to restrictions on transferability and other restrictions as the Trust’s compensation committee determines in its sole discretion on the date of grant. The restrictions may lapse over a specified period of employment or the satisfaction of pre-established criteria as the compensation committee may determine. Except to the extent restricted under the award agreement, a participant awarded restricted stock will have all of the rights of a stockholder as to those shares, including, without limitation, the right to vote and the right to receive dividends or distributions on the shares. Restricted stock is generally taxed at the time of vesting. As of December 31, 2014 and 2013, unearned compensation related to restricted stock totaled $0.6 million and $0.8 million, respectively, and will be recorded as expense over the applicable vesting period. The value is determined based on the market value of the Trust’s common stock on the grant date. During the years ended December 31, 2014, 2013 and 2012, compensation expense of $0.7 million, $0.9 million and $0.9 million, respectively, was recognized in the accompanying consolidated statements of income and comprehensive income, related to the vesting of restricted stock. Effective January 1, 2014 and January 1, 2013, the Trust adopted the 2014 Long-Term Incentive Plan (the "2014 LTIP") and the 2013 Long-Term Incentive Plan (the "2013 LTIP"), respectively. The purpose of the 2014 LTIP and 2013 LTIP is to attract, retain and motivate the executive officers and certain key employees of the Trust to promote the long-term growth and profitability of the Trust. On January 1, 2014 and 2013, the Trust issued 24,742 and 21,928, respectively, of time vested restricted stock to executives and key employees under the 2014 LTIP and 2013 LTIP. Additional shares were issued in August 2014 pursuant to the 2014 LTIP. The restricted stock granted under the 2014 LTIP and the 2013 LTIP will vest ratably over three years as long as the participants remain employed by the Trust.
	An RSU award is an award that will vest based upon the Trust’s achievement of total stockholder returns at specified levels as compared to the average total stockholder returns of a peer group of companies and/or the National Association of Real Estate Investment Trusts Equity Index over three years (the “Performance Period”). At the end of the Performance Period, the compensation committee of the Board will determine the level and the extent to which the performance goal was achieved. RSUs that satisfy the performance goal will be converted into fully-vested shares of the Trust’s common stock and the Trust will receive a tax deduction for the compensation expense at the time of vesting. Prior to vesting, the participants are not eligible to vote or receive dividends or distributions on the RSUs. On January 1, 2014, the Trust granted 102,297 performance vested RSUs to executives and key employees under the 2014 LTIP described above. On January 1, 2013, the Trust granted 40,724 performance vested RSUs to executives and key employees under the 2013 LTIP described above. As of December 31, 2014 and 2013, unearned compensation related to RSUs totaled $1.5 million and $0.9 million, respectively, and will be recorded as expense over the applicable vesting period. The value was determined using a Monte Carlo simulation technique. During the years ended December 31, 2014, 2013 and 2012, compensation expense of $1.1 million, $0.8 million and $0.7 million, respectively, was recognized in the accompanying consolidated statements of income and comprehensive income, related to the vesting of RSUs. On January 1, 2014, 67,750 fully-vested shares of common stock were issued pursuant to the vesting of RSUs granted in 2011.
	Pursuant to the terms of a Separation Agreement and Release Agreement (the “Separation Agreement”), dated as of May 12, 2014, between Randall H. Brown and the Trust, Mr. Brown resigned his employment as Chief Financial Officer effective June 30, 2014. In accordance with the Separation Agreement, all unvested shares of time-vested restricted stock granted to Mr. Brown under the Trust’s long term incentive plan fully vested on June 30, 2014; the Trust settled these shares in cash. In addition, the Trust reversed all previously recorded compensation expense related to unvested RSUs granted to Mr. Brown under the 2012 LTIP, 2013 LTIP and 2014 LTIP plans in the aggregate amount of $0.2 million, the impact of which is recorded in general and administrative expenses in the accompanying consolidated statements of income and comprehensive income.
	Total stock-based compensation recognized in general and administrative expense in the accompanying consolidated statements of income and comprehensive income for the years ended December 31, 2014, 2013 and 2012 was $1.9 million, $2.1 million and $2.0 million, respectively. Additionally during the years ended December 31, 2014 and 2013, the Trust issued 13,384 and 11,060 shares, respectively, to its independent directors under the 2011 Plan discussed above.
	A summary of the stock-based incentive plan activity as of and for the years ended December 31, 2014, 2013 and 2012 is as follows:
		Restricted Stock		Weighted-Average Grant Date Fair Value Per Restricted Stock Award		RSU Awards			Weighted-Average Grant Date Fair Value Per RSU
		Awards
	Outstanding as of December 31, 2011(1)	93,945		19.89		137,000			16.77
	Granted	23,532		30.42		—		(2)	—
	Vested	(25,789	)	30.54		(46,934	)		31.92
	Surrendered	(9,323	)	30.63		(21,066	)		31.92
	Outstanding as of December 31, 2012(1)	82,365		22.89		69,000			18.03
	Granted	21,930		31.92		61,092			22.95
	Vested	(30,340	)	31.62		—			—
	Surrendered	(12,614	)	31.62		—			—
	Outstanding as of December 31, 2013(1)	61,341		$	26.88	130,092			$	20.34
	Granted	25,944		26.7		102,305			19.2
	Vested	(26,476	)	25.74		(47,785	)		26.46
	Surrendered	(13,999	)	26.85		(37,701	)		26.46
	Outstanding as of December 31, 2014(1)	46,810		$	27.94	146,911			$	20.58
	-1	Represents unvested shares of restricted stock awards as of the date indicated.
	(2) On January 1, 2012, the Trust granted a total of $1.1 million of performance vesting RSUs that are denominated in cash and will convert to common stock at the end of the performance period to executives and key employees under the 2012 LTIP. On January 1, 2015, the Trust issued 8,754 shares of common stock related to the vesting of the RSUs under the 2012 LTIP.

Debt

Debt	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2014
Debt Disclosure [Abstract]
Debt	Debt
	Revolving credit facility
	On November 19, 2014, the Operating Partnership entered into a Fifth Amended and Restated Credit Agreement (the “Fifth Amended Revolver”). The Fifth Amended Revolver amended and restated that certain Fourth Amended and Restated Credit Agreement (the "Fourth Amended Revolver"). The Fifth Amended Revolver has a maximum availability of $500.0 million and an accordion feature to $1.0 billion, which may be exercised during the first four years subject to satisfaction of certain conditions. The Fifth Amended Revolver is scheduled to mature on November 19, 2018.
	EdR serves as the guarantor for any funds borrowed by the Operating Partnership under the Fifth Amended Revolver. The interest rate per annum applicable to the Fifth Amended Revolver is, at the Operating Partnership’s option, equal to a base rate or the London InterBank Offered Rate (“LIBOR”) plus an applicable margin based upon our leverage. As of December 31, 2014, the interest rate applicable to the Fifth Amended Revolver was 1.42%. If amounts are drawn, due to the fact that the Fifth Amended Revolver bears interest at variable rates, cost approximates the fair value. As of December 31, 2014, the outstanding balance was $24.0 million, thus, our remaining availability was $476.0 million.
	The Fifth Amended Revolver contains customary affirmative and negative covenants and contains financial covenants that, among other things, require the maintenance of certain minimum ratios of EBITDA (earnings before payment or charges of interest, taxes, depreciation, amortization or extraordinary items) as compared to interest expense and total fixed charges. The financial covenants also include consolidated net worth and leverage ratio tests, and distributions are prohibited in excess of 95% of FFO except to comply with the legal requirements to maintain REIT status. As of December 31, 2014, the Operating Partnership was in compliance with all covenants of the Fifth Amended Revolver.
	Unsecured term loan facility
	On January 13, 2014, the Operating Partnership and certain subsidiaries entered into an unsecured term loan facility under a Credit Agreement (the "Credit Agreement"), which was subsequently amended and restated on November 19, 2014 (the "Amended and Restated Credit Agreement"). The Amended and Restated Credit Agreement removed certain subsidiaries as borrowers and amended certain financial covenants to align with the Fifth Amended Revolver.
	Under the Amended and Restated Credit Agreement, the unsecured term loans have an aggregate principal amount of $187.5 million, consisting of a $122.5 million Tranche A term loan with a seven-year maturity (the “Tranche A Term Loan”) and a $65.0 million Tranche B term loan with a five-year maturity (the “Tranche B Term Loan” and, together with the Tranche A Term Loan, the “Term Loans”). The Tranche A Term Loan matures on January 13, 2021 and the Tranche B Term Loan matures on January 13, 2019. The Credit Agreement contains an accordion feature pursuant to which the Borrowers may request that the total aggregate amount of the Term Loans be increased to $250.0 million, which may be allocated to Tranche A or Tranche B, subject to certain conditions, including obtaining commitments from any one or more lenders to provide such additional commitments. The Operating Partnership used proceeds from the Term Loan to repay a portion of the outstanding balance under the Fourth Amended Revolver.
	The interest rate per annum on the Tranche A Term Loan is, at the Operating Partnership’s option, equal to a base rate or LIBOR plus an applicable margin ranging from 155 to 225 basis points. The interest rate per annum on the Tranche B Term Loan is, at the Operating Partnership’s option, equal to a base rate or LIBOR plus an applicable margin ranging from 120 to 190 basis points. The applicable margin for the Term Loans is based on leverage.
	The Amended and Restated Credit Agreement contains customary affirmative and restrictive covenants substantially similar to those contained in the Fifth Amended Revolver. EdR serves as the guarantor for any funds borrowed under the Amended and Restated Credit Agreement. As of December 31, 2014, the Operating Partnership was in compliance with all covenants of the Credit Agreement.
	In connection with entering into the Credit Agreement, the Operating Partnership entered into multiple interest rate swaps with notional amounts totaling $187.5 million to hedge the interest payments on the LIBOR-based Term Loans (see Note 14). As of December 31, 2014, the effective interest rate on the Tranche A Term Loan was 3.85% (weighted average swap rate of 2.30% plus the current margin of 1.55%) and the effective interest rate on the Tranche B Term Loan was 2.86% (weighted average swap rate of 1.66% plus the current margin of 1.20%).
	Senior unsecured notes
	On November 24, 2014, the Operating Partnership completed the public offering of $250.0 million senior unsecured notes (the "Senior Unsecured Notes") under an existing shelf registration. The 10-year Senior Unsecured Notes were issued at 99.991% of par value with a coupon of 4.6% per annum and are fully and unconditionally guaranteed by EdR. Interest on the Senior Unsecured Notes is payable semi-annually on June 1 and December 1 of each year, with the first payment beginning on June 1, 2015. The Senior Unsecured Notes will mature on December 1, 2024. Net proceeds from the issuance of the Senior Unsecured Notes were approximately $247.0 million, after deducting the underwriting discount and offering expenses payable by the Operating Partnership. The Operating Partnership used the offering proceeds to prepay $69.0 million of mortgage debt (including $2.6 million in prepayment penalties and other fees), pay down the outstanding balance of the Fifth Amended Revolver and for general corporate purposes. The terms of Senior Unsecured Notes contain certain covenants that restrict the ability of EdR, and the Operating Partnership to incur additional secured and unsecured indebtedness. In addition, the Operating Partnership must maintain a minimum ratio of unencumbered asset value to unsecured debt, as well as minimum interest coverage level. As of December 31, 2014, the Operating Partnership was in compliance with all covenants.
	Mortgage and construction debt
	As of December 31, 2014 and 2013, mortgage and construction notes payable consist of the following, which were secured by the underlying collegiate housing properties (amounts in thousands):
			Outstanding Balance at December 31,
	Property		2014				2013				Interest Rate at December 31, 2014			Interest Rate Type	Initial Maturity Date
	Various Communities(1)		$	21,696			$	22,053			5.67	%		Fixed	1/1/20
	Various Communities(2)		55,523				56,450				6.02	%		Fixed	1/1/19
	Various Communities(3)		16,137				16,413				5.45	%		Fixed	1/1/17
	Various Communities(4)		—				7,239				n/a
	Various Communities(5)		—				67,543				n/a
	Master Secured Credit Facility		93,356				169,698				5.84	%	(6)
	The Suites at Overton Park		24,216				24,695				4.16	%	(7)	Fixed	4/1/16	(7)
	The Centre at Overton Park		22,697				23,024				5.6	%	(7)	Fixed	1/1/17	(7)
	Pointe West		—				9,594				n/a
	GrandMarc at Westberry Place		—				35,697				n/a
	University Towers		34,000				34,000				2.29	%	(8)	Variable	7/1/16	(8)
	Mortgage Debt		80,913				127,010				3.78	%	(6)
	The Retreat at Louisville		8,114				—				2.22	%	(9)	Variable	8/1/17	(9)
	The Oaks on the Square - Phase I and II		—				31,351				n/a
	The Oaks on the Square - Phase III		—				235				n/a
	The Varsity		32,420				32,420				2.41	%	(11)	Variable	8/1/15	(11)
	The Retreat at Oxford		—				27,100				n/a
	Roosevelt Point		33,348				32,576				2.44	%	(12)	Variable	3/20/15	(12)
	Construction Loans(10)		73,882				123,682				2.4	%	(6)
	Total debt / weighted average rate		248,151				420,390				4.14	%	(6)
	Unamortized premium		1,486				2,291
	Total net of unamortized premium		249,637				422,681
	Less current portion		(68,675		)		(13,834		)
	Total long-term debt, net of current portion		$	180,962			$	408,847
	(1)	As of December 31, 2014, the following properties secured this note: The Reserve at Saluki Pointe and River Pointe. As of December 31, 2013, River Pointe, Cape Trails and The Reserve on South College secured this note under the Master Secured Credit Facility.
	(2) As of December 31, 2014, the following properties secured this note: The Reserve at Athens, The Reserve at Perkins, The Commons at Knoxville and The Reserve on Stinson. As of December 31, 2013, Irish Row, The Reserve at Perkins, The Reserve at Columbia and The Commons at Knoxville secured this note under the Master Secured Credit Facility.
	(3) As of December 31, 2014, this note was secured by The Reserve at Columbia. As of December 31, 2013, the following properties secured this note: The Commons on Kinnear and The Reserve at Perkins.
	(4) During the year ended December 31, 2014, this note was repaid. As of December 31, 2013, this note was secured by the Reserve at Athens.
	(5) During the year ended December 31, 2014, this note was repaid. As of December 31, 2013, the following properties secured this note: College Station at W. Lafayette, The Pointe at Penn State and The Reserve on Stinson.
	(6) Represents the weighted average interest rate as of December 31, 2014.
	(7) In connection with the acquisitions of The Suites at Overton Park and The Centre at Overton Park during 2012 (see Note 4), the Trust assumed fixed-rate mortgage debt. If no event of default occurs, the Trust has the option to extend the maturity dates for one year at a base rate plus a margin of 2.5%. Principal and interest are repaid monthly on these loans.
	(8) The interest rate per year applicable to the loan is, at the option of the Trust, equal to a prime rate plus a 0.50% margin or LIBOR plus a 2.10% margin and is interest only through July 1, 2015. The loan may be extended for two 12-month periods, providing the debt service coverage ratio calculated as of the preceding quarter is at least 1.30 to 1.00 and an extension fee is paid.
	(9) During 2014, the Trust entered into a construction loan related to the development of a jointly owned cottage-style community located in Louisville, Kentucky (The Retreat at Louisville). The Operating Partnership is the majority owner and will the manage the community once it is completed. The interest rate per year applicable to the loan is, at the option of the Operating Partnership, equal to a base rate plus a 1.05% margin or LIBOR plus a 2.05% margin and is interest only through July 10, 2017. On July 10, 2017, if certain conditions are met, the Operating Partnership has the option to extend the loan until July 9, 2018 and another year thereafter. During the extension periods, if applicable, principal and interest are to be repaid on a monthly basis.
	(10) Represents construction debt that is interest only through the maturity date. See the footnotes herein regarding the applicable extension periods.
	(11) In connection with the acquisition of The Varsity during 2013 (see Note 4), the Trust assumed variable-rate construction debt. The interest rate per year applicable to the loan is equal to LIBOR plus a 2.25% margin and is interest only through August 1, 2015. On August 1, 2015, if certain conditions for extension are met, we have the option to extend the loan until August 1, 2017. During the extension period, if applicable, principal and interest are to be repaid on a monthly basis.
	(12)The Trust is the majority owner and managing member of the Roosevelt Pointe joint venture and also manages the community. During 2014, the Trust acquired additional ownership interest and now owns 95% of the community (see Note 6). The interest rate per year applicable to the loan is, at the option of the Trust, equal to LIBOR plus a 2.25% margin and is interest only through the initial maturity date. If certain conditions are met and an extension fee is paid, the Trust can extend the maturity date through two additional one-year periods.
	Master Secured Credit Facility
	The Operating Partnership also has a credit facility with Fannie Mae (the "Master Secured Credit Facility") that was entered into on December 31, 2008 and expanded on December 2, 2009. All notes under the Master Secured Credit Facility contain cross-default provisions; all properties securing the notes are cross-collateralized. The Operating Partnership was in compliance with all financial covenants, including consolidated net worth and liquidity tests, contained in the Master Secured Credit Facility as of December 31, 2014.
	During 2014, The Operating Partnership prepaid a $66.5 million, seven-year note under the Master Secured Credit Facility. The debt had a fixed rate of 6.02% and was due to mature on January 1, 2016. Four collegiate housing communities (The Pointe at Penn State, the Commons on Kinnear, Cape Trails and Irish Row) were released from the collateral pool simultaneously with the pay-off. The mortgage debt was repaid with proceeds from the public offering of unsecured senior notes completed on November 24, 2014 as described above. In connection with this repayment, the Operating Partnership incurred a prepayment penalty of $2.6 million, which is included in loss on extinguishment of debt in the accompanying consolidated statement of income and comprehensive income.
	During 2014, the Operating Partnership prepaid a $7.2 million note under the Master Secured Credit Facility. The debt had a fixed interest rate of 4.96% and was due to mature on January 1, 2015. One collegiate housing community, The Reserve at South College, was released from the collateral pool simultaneous with the pay-off. In connection with this pay off, the Operating Partnership recognized a $0.1 million loss on extinguishment of debt. The mortgage debt was repaid with proceeds received from borrowings under the Fifth Amended Revolver and cash on hand.
	Also during 2014, the Operating Partnership completed a substitution of The Reserve at Saluki Pointe into the facility for the release of College Station at W. Lafayette, which was sold during 2014 (see Note 5).
	Mortgage debt
	In February 2014, the Operating Partnership repaid in full variable rate mortgage debt of $35.7 million that was assumed in connection with the 2011 acquisition of the GrandMarc at Westberry Place collegiate housing community located at Texas Christian University. The interest rate was equal to a base rate plus a 4.85% margin, and the loan was scheduled to mature on January 1, 2020. In connection with this repayment, a $0.6 million loss on extinguishment of debt was recognized.
	In connection with the sale of Pointe West collegiate housing community located at University of South Carolina on July 1, 2014, the Operating Partnership repaid mortgage debt of $9.5 million in full. The interest rate was equal to 4.92% and the mortgage debt was scheduled to mature on August 1, 2014.
	All mortgage loans contain customary financial covenants, such as minimum debt service ratios. As of December 31, 2014, the Operating Partnership was in compliance with all covenants.
	Construction loans
	During 2014, the Operating Partnership entered into a construction loan of $38.0 million related to the development of the fourth phase of a wholly-owned collegiate housing community in Storrs, Connecticut (The Oaks on the Square - Phase IV). The interest rate per year applicable to the loan is, at the option of the Operating Partnership, equal to a base rate plus a 1.00% margin or LIBOR plus a 2.00% margin and is interest only through October 21, 2017. On October 21, 2017, if certain conditions are met, the Operating Partnership has the option to extend the loan until October 21, 2018 and another year thereafter. During the extension periods, if applicable, principal and interest are to be repaid on a monthly basis. As of December 31, 2014, no amounts had been drawn on the loan.
During 2014, the Operating Partnership repaid outstanding principal balances on the following construction loans (amounts in thousands):
Property		Date Prepaid		Outstanding Balance as of the Repayment Date				Interest Rate as of the Repayment Date
The Oaks on the Square - Phase I and II		Apr-14		$	32,319			2.41	%
The Oaks on the Square - Phase III		Sep-14		$	8,219			2.1	%
The Retreat at Oxford		Dec-14		$	27,126			1.96	%
The construction loans were repaid with proceeds from the Fifth Amended Revolver and cash on hand. Total prepayment penalties of $0.2 million were recognized and are included in loss on extinguishment of debt in the accompanying consolidated statements of income and comprehensive income.
All constructions loans also contain customary financial covenants, such as minimum debt service ratios. As of December 31, 2014, the Operating Partnership was in compliance with all covenants.
The following table reconciles the carrying amount of mortgage and construction notes payable for the years ended December 31, 2014 and 2013 (in thousands):
	2014				2013
Balance, beginning of period	$	422,681			$	398,846
Additions	17,865				122,543
Repayments of principal	(190,103		)		(97,931		)
Amortization of premium	(806		)		(777		)
Balance, end of period	$	249,637			$	422,681
The scheduled maturities of outstanding indebtedness (excluding the Fifth Amended Revolver) as of December 31, 2014 are as follows (in thousands):
Year
2015	$	68,675
2016	59,410
2017	47,176
2018	1,629
2019	116,688
Thereafter	392,074
Total	685,652
Debt premium	1,486
Outstanding as of December 31, 2014, net of debt premium	$	687,138

Noncontrolling_interests

Noncontrolling interests	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2014
Noncontrolling Interest [Abstract]
Noncontrolling interests	Noncontrolling interests
	Operating Partnership
	Joint Ventures: As of December 31, 2014, EROP had entered into three joint venture agreements to develop, own and manage properties near Arizona State University - Downtown Phoenix (Roosevelt Point), Duke University (605 West) and The University of Louisville (The Retreat at Louisville). EROP is deemed to be the primary beneficiary of these communities; therefore, EROP accounts for the joint ventures using the consolidation method of accounting. EROP's joint venture partner's investments in 605 West met the requirements to be classified outside of permanent equity, and is therefore classified as redeemable noncontrolling interests in the accompanying consolidated balance sheets and net income (loss) attributable to noncontrolling interests in the accompanying consolidated statements of income and comprehensive income due to the partner's ability to put their ownership interests to EROP as stipulated in the operating agreements. EROP's joint venture partner's investments in the Arizona State University - Downtown Phoenix joint venture and The University of Louisville joint venture are accounted for as noncontrolling interests in the accompanying consolidated balance sheets and statements of changes in partner's capital and noncontrolling interests and net income (loss) attributable to noncontrolling interests in the accompanying consolidated statements of income and comprehensive income.
	As of December 31, 2013, EROP had entered into a joint venture agreement to develop, own and manage a collegiate housing property near The University of Mississippi (The Retreat at Oxford). EROP’s joint venture partners’ investment is accounted for as noncontrolling interests in the accompanying consolidated financial statements through August 29, 2014. On August 29, 2014, EROP purchased its joint venture partner's 30% interest in The Retreat at Oxford for $8.5 million. This collegiate housing property is now wholly-owned by EROP.
	On April 15, 2014, EROP purchased a portion of its joint venture partner's interest in Roosevelt Point for $0.8 million. As a result of this purchase, EROP now holds a 95% ownership in the Roosevelt Point collegiate housing property. Additionally, on September 10, 2013, EROP purchased its joint venture partner's 10% interest in the collegiate housing property referred to as East Edge located near the University of Alabama for $6.9 million and as a result owns 100% of this property.
	The units of the limited partnership interest of University Towers Operating Partnership, LP (“University Towers Operating Partnership Units”) are also referred to as noncontrolling interests. EROP follows the guidance issued by the FASB regarding the classification and measurement of redeemable securities. The University Towers Operating Partnership Units are redeemable at the option of the holder and they participate in net income and distributions. Accordingly, EROP has determined that the University Towers Operating Partnership Units meet the requirements to be classified outside of permanent equity, and are therefore also classified as redeemable noncontrolling interests in the accompanying consolidated balance sheets. Income related to such units are recorded as net income attributable to noncontrolling interests in the accompanying consolidated statements of income and comprehensive income. As of December 31, 2014 and 2013, there were 207,257 University Towers Operating Partnership Units outstanding.
	The following table sets forth the activity with the redeemable noncontrolling interests for the years ended December 31, 2014 and 2013 (in thousands):
		2014			2013
	Beginning balance	$	2,359		$	1,164
	Net income	65			168
	Contributions from redeemable noncontrolling interests	—			1,127
	Adjustments to report redeemable noncontrolling interests at fair value	2,555			—
	Distributions	(548		)	(100		)
	Ending balance	$	4,431		$	2,359
	The value of redeemable noncontrolling interests is reported at the greater of fair value or historical cost at the end of each reporting period. As of December 31, 2014, EROP reported the redeemable noncontrolling interests at fair value, which was greater than historical cost. As of December 31, 2013, EROP reported the redeemable noncontrolling interests at historical cost, which was greater than fair value.
	Redeemable Limited Partner Units: The units of limited partnership of the Operating Partnership (“OP Units”) that EROP is required, either by contract or securities law, to deliver registered shares of common stock of the Trust or cash, at the general partner's discretion, to the exchanging Operating Partnership unitholder is classified as redeemable limited partner units in the mezzanine section of the accompanying consolidated balance sheets of the Operating Partnership. The redeemable limited partner units are reported at the greater of fair value or historical cost at the end of each reporting period. As of December 31, 2014, EROP reported the redeemable limited partner units at fair value, which was greater than historical cost. As of December 31, 2013, EROP reported the redeemable limited partner units at historical cost, which was greater than fair value.
	On November 20, 2014, the Board authorized a reverse stock split of 1-for-3 effective December 1, 2014. Accordingly, every three issued and outstanding shares of common stock as of December 1, 2014 were reduced to one. The number of OP Units will not change, however, in accordance with the Amended and Restated Agreement of Limited Partnership, a conversion factor of 0.33333 will be applied to all future dividends and conversion of OP Units into shares of EdR's common stock or cash.
	During the year ended December 31, 2014, 7,391 OP Units were redeemed for cash. As of December 31, 2014 and 2013, there were 822,952 and 830,343 OP Units outstanding, respectively.
	Below is a table summarizing the activity of redeemable limited partners' unit for the years ended December 31, 2014 and 2013 (in thousands):
		2014			2013
	Beginning balance	$	7,512		$	7,780
	Net income	367			81
	Distributions	(378		)	(349		)
	Conversion of redeemable partner units into cash	(77		)	—
	Adjustments to report redeemable limited partner units at fair value	2,657			—
	Ending balance	$	10,081		$	7,512
	The Trust
	The noncontrolling interests of the Trust include the third-party equity interests in the joint venture properties at Roosevelt Pointe and The Retreat at Louisville, as discussed above, which are presented as a component of equity in the Trust’s accompanying consolidated balance sheets.
	The Trust’s redeemable noncontrolling interests include: (1) the redeemable limited partners presented in the accompanying consolidated balance sheets of EROP; and (2) the University Towers Operating Partnership Units and the Trust's joint venture partner's investments in 605 West which are also presented as redeemable noncontrolling interests in the accompanying consolidated balance sheets of EROP. The redeemable noncontrolling interests are reported at the greater of fair value or historical cost at the end of each reporting period. As of December 31, 2014, EROP reported the redeemable limited partner units at fair value, which was greater than historical cost. As of December 31, 2013, EROP reported the redeemable limited partner units at historical cost, which was greater than fair value.

Earnings_per_shareunit

Earnings per share/unit	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2014
Earnings Per Share [Abstract]
Earnings per share/unit	Earnings per share/unit
	Earnings per Share - The Trust
	On November 20, 2014, the Board authorized a reverse stock split of 1-for-3 effective December 1, 2014. Accordingly, every three issued and outstanding shares of common stock as of December 1, 2014 were reduced to one. All shares and related information presented in these financial statements have been retroactively adjusted to reflect the decreased number of shares.
	The following is a summary of the components used in calculating earnings per share for the years ended December 31, 2014, 2013 and 2012 (dollars in thousands, except share and per share data):
		2014		2013			2012
	Numerator - basic and diluted earnings per share:
	Income from continuing operations, net of noncontrolling interests	$	47,055	$	4,776		$	68
	Income (loss) from discontinued operations, net of noncontrolling interests	—		(453		)	8,353
	Net income attributable to common stock	$	47,055	$	4,323		$	8,421
	Denominator:
	Basic weighted average shares of common stock outstanding	42,933,958		38,143,999			33,747,991
	OP Units (1)	274,308		276,781			288,576
	University Towers Operating Partnership Units (1)	69,081		69,086			69,086
	Diluted weighted average shares of common stock outstanding	43,277,347		38,489,866			34,105,653
	Earnings per share - basic:
	Income from continuing operations, net of noncontrolling interests	$	1.1	$	0.12		$	—
	Income (loss) from discontinued operations, net of noncontrolling interests	$	—	$	(0.01	)	$	0.25
	Net income attributable to common stock	$	1.1	$	0.11		$	0.25
	Earnings per share - diluted:
	Income from continuing operations, net of noncontrolling interests	$	1.09	$	0.12		$	—
	Income (loss) from discontinued operations, net of noncontrolling interests	$	—	$	(0.01	)	$	0.25
	Net income attributable to common stock	$	1.09	$	0.11		$	0.25
	Distributions declared per common share	$	1.38	$	1.26		$	1.02
	(1) In connection with the reverse stock split of 1-for-3 effective December 1, 2014, the number of OP Units will not change,
	however, in accordance with the Amended and Restated Agreement of Limited Partnership, a conversion factor of 0.33333 will be applied
	to all future dividends and conversion of units into shares of EdR's common stock or cash.
	Earnings per Unit - EROP
	The following is a summary of the components used in calculating earnings per unit for the years ended December 31, 2014, 2013 and 2012 (dollars in thousands, except unit and per unit data):
		2014		2013			2012
	Numerator - basic and diluted earnings per unit:
	Income from continuing operations, net of noncontrolling interests	$	47,422	$	4,857		$	194
	Income (loss) from discontinued operations, net of noncontrolling interests	—		(453		)	8,351
	Net income attributable to unitholders	$	47,422	$	4,404		$	8,545
	Denominator:
	Weighted average units outstanding	128,811,547		114,431,996			101,243,974
	Redeemable Operating Partnership units	822,952		830,343			865,727
	Weighted average units outstanding - basic	129,634,499		115,262,339			102,109,701
	Redeemable noncontrolling units	207,257		207,257			207,257
	Weighted average units outstanding - diluted	129,841,756		115,469,596			102,316,958
	Earnings per unit - basic:
	Income from continuing operations, net of noncontrolling interests	$	0.37	$	0.04		$	—
	Income (loss) from discontinued operations, net of noncontrolling interests	$	—	$	—		$	0.08
	Net income attributable to unitholders	$	0.37	$	0.04		$	0.08
	Earnings per unit - diluted:
	Income from continuing operations, net of noncontrolling interests	$	0.37	$	0.04		$	—
	Income (loss) from discontinued operations, net of noncontrolling interests	$	—	$	—		$	0.08
	Net income attributable to unitholders	$	0.37	$	0.04		$	0.08
	Distributions declared per unit	$	0.46	$	0.42		$	0.34

Segments

Segments	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2014
Segment Reporting [Abstract]
Segments	Segments
	The Trust defines business segments by their distinct customer base and service provided. The Trust has identified three reportable segments: collegiate housing leasing, development consulting services and management services. Management evaluates each segment’s performance based on net operating income, which is defined as income before depreciation, amortization, ground leases, impairment losses, interest expense (income), gains (losses) on extinguishment of debt, equity in earnings of unconsolidated entities and noncontrolling interests. The accounting policies of the reportable segments are the same as those described in the summary of significant accounting policies. Intercompany fees are reflected at the contractually stipulated amounts. Discontinued operations are not included in segment reporting as management addresses these items on a corporate level.
	The following tables represent the Trust’s segment information for the years ended December 31, 2014, 2013 and 2012 (amounts in thousands):
			Year Ended December 31,
			2014			2013			2012
	Collegiate Housing Leasing:
		Collegiate housing leasing revenue	$	206,322		$	167,476		$	124,087
		Collegiate housing leasing operations	92,649			79,957			59,524
		Net operating income	$	113,673		$	87,519		$	64,563
		Total segment assets at end of period (1)	$	1,737,967		$	1,536,699		$	1,257,476
	Development Consulting Services:
		Third-party development consulting services	$	4,224		$	3,759		$	1,018
		General and administrative	2,354			1,161			1,157
		Net operating income (loss)	$	1,870		$	2,598		$	(139	)
		Total segment assets at end of period(2)	$	4,103		$	5,187		$	5,695
	Management Services:
		Third-party management services	$	3,959		$	3,697		$	3,446
		General and administrative	2,633			2,450			2,779
		Net operating income	$	1,326		$	1,247		$	667
		Total segment assets at end of period(2)	$	10,693		$	10,135		$	10,218
	Reconciliations:
		Segment revenue	$	214,505		$	174,932		$	128,551
		Operating expense reimbursements	8,707			10,214			9,593
		Eliminations / adjustments	2,581			(770		)	(198		)
		Total segment revenues	$	225,793		$	184,376		$	137,946
		Segment operating expenses	$	97,636		$	83,568		$	63,460
		Reimbursable operating expenses	8,707			10,214			9,593
		Eliminations / adjustments	—			—			(44		)
		Total segment operating expenses	$	106,343		$	93,782		$	73,009
		Segment net operating income	$	119,450		$	90,594		$	64,937
		Other unallocated general and administrative expenses	(14,815		)	(10,544		)	(10,284		)
		Depreciation and amortization	(58,974		)	(48,098		)	(33,240		)
		Ground lease	(8,988		)	(7,622		)	(6,395		)
		Loss on impairment of collegiate housing properties	(12,733		)	—			—
		Interest expense	(20,656		)	(17,526		)	(14,390		)
		Amortization of deferred financing costs	(2,156		)	(1,758		)	(1,215		)
		Interest income	190			447			283
		Loss on extinguishment of debt	(3,543		)	—			—
		Guarantee fee income from participating development	3,000			—			—
		Interest on loan to participating development	6,486			—			—
		Gain on insurance settlement	8,133			—			—
		Equity in losses of unconsolidated entities	(710		)	(203		)	(363		)
		Income (loss) before income taxes, discontinued operations and gain on sale of collegiate housing properties	$	14,684		$	5,290		$	(667	)
		Total segment assets, end of period (2)	$	1,752,763		$	1,552,021		$	1,273,389
		Unallocated corporate amounts:
		Cash	7,540			10,729			8,436
		Notes receivable (see Note 2)	375			18,125			21,000
		Other receivables	2,100			1,456			—
		Investments in unconsolidated entities (see Note 8)	29,355			20,602			11,796
		Deposit	—			—			3,000
		Other assets	11,900			4,293			6,017
		Deferred financing costs, net	7,604			3,339			1,049
		Total assets, end of period	$	1,811,637		$	1,610,565		$	1,324,687
	(1) The increase in segment assets related to collegiate housing leasing during the year ended December 31, 2014 is primarily related to the purchase of two additional communities and completed development of seven collegiate housing communities for the Trust’s ownership offset by the sale of seven collegiate housing communities (see Notes 4 and 5). The increase in segment assets related to collegiate housing leasing during the year ended December 31, 2013 is primarily related to the purchase of three additional communities and the continued development of fourteen collegiate housing communities for the Trust's ownership offset by the sale of two collegiate housing communities (see Notes 4 and 5).
	(2) Total segment assets include goodwill of $2,149 related to management services and $921 related to development consulting services.
	Beginning with the three months ended March 31, 2014, we are reporting in all periods presented expenses related to development activities at our owned developments as part of other unallocated general and administrative expenses. As a result, revenues and expenses presented in the development consulting services segment relate solely to our third-party business.

Derivatives_and_hedging_activi

Derivatives and hedging activities	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2014
Derivative Instruments and Hedging Activities Disclosure [Abstract]
Derivatives and hedging activities	Derivatives and hedging activities
	Cash Flow Hedges of Interest Rate Risk
	The objectives in using interest rate derivatives are to add stability to interest expense and to manage the exposure to interest rate movements. To accomplish this objective, interest rate swaps are used as part of the interest rate risk management strategy. During the year ended December 31, 2014, such derivatives were used to hedge the variable cash flows associated with existing variable-rate debt. As of December 31, 2014, six outstanding interest rate swaps were outstanding with a combined notional of $187.5 million that were designated as cash flow hedges of interest rate risk. The counter-parties to such swaps are major financial institutions.
	The effective portion of changes in the fair value of derivatives designated and that qualify as cash flow hedges is recorded in accumulated other comprehensive loss and is subsequently reclassified into earnings in the period that the hedged forecasted transaction affects earnings. The ineffective portion of the change in fair value of the derivatives, which is immaterial for all periods presented, is recognized directly in earnings. During the next twelve months, an additional $3.3 million is estimated to be reclassified to earnings as an increase to interest expense. As of December 31, 2014, the fair value of the derivatives is a liability of $4.5 million and is included in accrued expenses in the accompanying consolidated balance sheet.
	The following table discloses the effect of the derivative instruments on the consolidated statement of income and comprehensive income for the year ended December 31, 2014 (in thousands):
	Derivatives in Cash Flow Hedging Relationships	Amount of Loss Recognized in OCI on Derivative (Effective Portion)			Location of Loss Reclassified from Accumulated OCI into Income (Effective Portion)	Amount of Loss Reclassified from Accumulated OCI into Income (Effective Portion)
	Interest rate contracts	$	(7,991	)	Interest expense	$	3,526
	The above contracts are subject to enforceable master netting arrangements that provide a right of offset with each counterparty; however, no offsetting positions exist due to certain duplicate terms across all contracts. Therefore, the derivatives are not subject to offset in the consolidated balance sheets.
	Credit-risk-related Contingent Features
	The Operating Partnership has agreements with each of its derivative counterparties that contain a provision where if the Operating Partnership defaults on any of its indebtedness, including default where repayment of the indebtedness has not been accelerated by the lender, then the Operating Partnership could also be declared in default on its derivative obligations. In addition, the Operating Partnership has agreements with each of its derivative counterparties that contain a provision where the Operating Partnership could be declared in default on its derivative obligations if repayment of the underlying indebtedness is accelerated by the lender due to the Operating Partnership's default on the indebtedness.
	As of December 31, 2014, the fair value of derivatives related to these agreements, which includes accrued interest, but excludes any adjustment for nonperformance risk, was a liability of $4.7 million. As of December 31, 2014, the Operating Partnership has not posted any collateral related to these agreements. If the Operating Partnership had breached any of these provisions at December 31, 2014, it could have been required to settle its obligations under the agreements at their termination value of $4.7 million.

Fair_Value_of_Financial_Instru

Fair Value of Financial Instruments	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2014
Fair Value Disclosures [Abstract]
Fair Value of Financial Instruments	Fair Value of Financial Instruments
	Non-financial assets measured at fair value on a nonrecurring basis consist of real estate assets and investments in partially owned entities that have been written-down to estimated fair value when it has been determined that asset values are not recoverable. Fair value is estimated relating to impairment assessments based upon an income capitalization approach (which considers prevailing market capitalization rates and operations of the community) or the negotiated sales price, if applicable. Based upon the inputs used to value properties under the income capitalization approach, valuations under this method are classified within Level 3 of its fair value hierarchy. For the communities for which the estimated fair value was based on negotiated sales prices, the valuation was classified within Level 2 of the fair value hierarchy.
	One non-financial asset was impaired during the year ended December 31, 2014 and has remained on the accompanying consolidated balance sheet as of December 31, 2014 (in thousands):
				Estimated Fair Value
		Carrying value		Level 1		Level 2		Level 3
	Collegiate housing properties, net	$	15,471	$	—	$	15,471	$	—
	As discussed in Note 14, interest rate swaps are used to manage interest rate risk. The valuation of these instruments is determined using widely accepted valuation techniques, including discounted cash flow analysis on the expected cash flows of each derivative. This analysis reflects the contractual terms of the derivatives, including the period to maturity, and uses observable market-based inputs, including interest rate curves and implied volatilities. The fair values of interest rate swaps are determined using the market standard methodology of netting the discounted future fixed cash receipts (or payments) and the discounted expected variable cash payments (or receipts). The variable cash payments (or receipts) are based on an expectation of future interest rates (forward curves) derived from observable market interest rate curves.
	To comply with the provisions of ASC 820, credit valuation adjustments are incorporated to appropriately reflect both nonperformance risk and the respective counterparty’s nonperformance risk in the fair value measurements. In adjusting the fair value of the derivative contracts for the effect of nonperformance risk, the Trust has considered the impact of netting and any applicable credit enhancements, such as collateral postings, thresholds, mutual puts and guarantees.
	Although the Trust has determined that the majority of the inputs used to value its derivatives fall within Level 2 of the fair value hierarchy, the credit valuation adjustments associated with its derivatives utilize Level 3 inputs, such as estimates of current credit spreads to evaluate the likelihood of default by itself and its counterparties. The Trust has determined that the significance of the impact of the credit valuation adjustments made to its derivative contracts, which determination was based on the fair value of each individual contract, was not significant to the overall valuation. As a result, all of the Trust's derivatives held as of December 31, 2014 were classified as Level 2 of the fair value hierarchy.
	The table below presents the assets and liabilities measured at fair value on a recurring basis as of December 31, 2014, aggregated by the level in the fair value hierarchy within which those measurements fall. There were no assets and liabilities measured at fair value on a recurring basis as of December 31, 2013.
	The table below summarizes the carrying amounts and fair values of these financial instruments as of December 31, 2014 (in thousands):
				Estimated Fair Value
		Carrying value		Level 1		Level 2		Level 3
	Derivative financial instruments (liability position)	$	4,465	$	—	$	4,465	$	—
	Deferred compensation plan assets	520		520		—		—
	Financial assets and liabilities that are not measured at fair value in our consolidated financial statements include mezzanine notes receivable and debt. Estimates of the fair values of these instruments are based on assessments of available market information and valuation methodologies, including discounted cash flow analyses.
	The table below summarizes the carrying amounts and fair values of these financial instruments as of December 31, 2014 and 2013 (in thousands):
		31-Dec-14
				Estimated Fair Value
		Carrying value		Level 1		Level 2		Level 3
	Mezzanine notes receivable	$	375	$	—	$	318	$	—
	Senior unsecured notes	250,000		—		234,583		—
	Unsecured revolving credit facility	24,000		—		24,000		—
	Unsecured term loan facility	187,500		—		187,500		—
	Variable rate mortgage and construction loans	107,882		—		107,882		—
	Fixed rate mortgage and construction loans	140,270		—		154,542		—
		31-Dec-13
				Estimated Fair Value
		Carrying value		Level 1		Level 2		Level 3
	Mezzanine notes receivable	$	18,125	$	—	$	19,330	$	—
	Unsecured revolving credit facility	356,900		—		356,900		—
	Variable rate mortgage and construction loans	193,381		—		193,381		—
	Fixed rate mortgage and construction loans	227,009		—		239,162		—
	The Trust discloses the fair value of financial instruments for which it is practicable to estimate. The Trust considers the carrying amounts of cash and cash equivalents, restricted cash, student contracts receivable, accounts payable and accrued expenses to approximate fair value due to the short maturity of these instruments. The carrying value of restricted cash approximates its fair value based on the nature of our assessment of the ability to recover these amounts.

Lease_commitments_and_uncondit

Lease commitments and unconditional purchase obligations	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2014
Disclosure Lease Commitments And Unconditional Purchase Obligations Additional Information [Abstract]
Lease commitments and unconditional purchase obligations	Lease commitments and unconditional purchase obligations
	The Trust has various long-term ground lease agreements with terms ranging from 40 to 99 years. Some of these agreements contain an annual increase to rent expense equal to the greater of 3% or the increase in the consumer price index. Additionally, the Trust leases corporate office space and the agreement contains rent escalation clauses based on pre-determined annual rate increases. The Trust recognizes rent expense under the straight-line method over the terms of the leases. Any difference between the straight-line rent amounts and amounts payable under the leases’ terms are recorded as deferred rent in accrued expenses in the accompanying consolidated balance sheets. As of December 31, 2014 and 2013, deferred rent totaled $19.4 million and $15.9 million, respectively.
	The Trust has various operating leases for furniture, office and technology equipment which expire at varying times through fiscal year 2023. Rental expense under the operating lease agreements totaled $0.7 million, $0.7 million and $0.8 million for the years ended December 31, 2014, 2013 and 2012, respectively. Furthermore, the Trust has entered into various contracts for advertising which will expire at varying times through fiscal year 2015.
	Future minimum rental payments required under operating leases that have initial or remaining noncancellable lease terms as well as future minimum payments required under advertising contracts that have noncancellable terms in excess of one year as of December 31, 2014 are as follows (in thousands):
	Year Ending	Advertising		Leases
	2015	$	90	$	13,845
	2016	2		11,725
	2017	—		9,729
	2018	—		9,066
	2019	—		8,665
	Thereafter	—		575,960
	Total	$	92	$	628,990

Employee_savings_plan

Employee savings plan	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2014
Compensation and Retirement Disclosure [Abstract]
Employee savings plan	Employee savings plan
	Eligible employees may participate in a 401(k) savings plan (the “Plan”). Participants may contribute up to 15% of their earnings to the Plan. Employees are eligible to participate in the Plan on the first day of the next calendar quarter following six months of service and reaching 21 years of age. Additionally a matching contribution of 50% is provided on eligible employees’ contributions up to the first 3% of compensation. Employees vest in the matching contribution over their first 3 years of employment then immediately vest in the matching contribution from then on. Matching contributions were approximately $0.3 million, $0.2 million, $0.2 million for the years ended December 31, 2014, 2013 and 2012, respectively.

Accrued_expenses

Accrued expenses	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2014
Payables and Accruals [Abstract]
Accrued expenses	Accrued expenses
	Accrued expenses consist of the following as of December 31, 2014 and 2013 (in thousands):
		2014		2013
	Payroll	$	3,765	$	3,176
	Real estate taxes	7,573		6,848
	Interest	2,978		2,060
	Utilities	1,691		1,203
	Ground leases (including straight-line rent)	20,010		15,012
	Construction loan guarantee	—		3,000
	Assets under development	18,558		15,034
	Deferred revenue related to insurance proceeds (See Note 19)	—		5,998
	Fair value of derivative liability	4,465		—
	Other	15,646		13,026
	Total accrued expenses	$	74,686	$	65,357

Commitments_and_contingencies

Commitments and contingencies	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2014
Commitments and Contingencies Disclosure [Abstract]
Commitments and contingencies	Commitments and contingencies
	In July 2012, the 3949 community located in St. Louis, Missouri was partially destroyed by a fire. The community was rebuilt and fully reopened in August 2013. This fire caused substantial business interruption and property damage, both of which are covered under existing insurance policies. For the years ended December 31, 2014, 2013 and 2012, the Trust recognized business interruption proceeds of $0.1 million, $1.7 million and $1.2 million, respectively. These amounts are included in collegiate housing leasing revenues in the accompanying consolidated financial statements. During the year ended December 31, 2014, the insurance claims were settled and the Trust recognized a gain on insurance proceeds of $8.1 million in the accompanying consolidated statements of income and comprehensive income.
	The Operating Partnership and various joint venture partners have jointly and severally guaranteed partial repayment on third-party mortgage and construction debt secured by the following underlying collegiate housing properties, all of which are unconsolidated joint ventures. The Operating Partnership is liable to the lender for any loss, damage, cost, expense, liability, claim or other obligation incurred by the lender arising out of or in connection with certain non-recourse exceptions in connection with the debt. Pursuant to the respective operating agreement, the joint venture partner agreed to indemnify, defend and hold harmless the Trust with respect to such obligations, except to the extent such obligations were caused by the willful misconduct, gross negligence, fraud or bad faith of the Operating Partnership or its employees, agents or affiliates. Therefore, exposure under the guaranties for obligations not caused by the willful misconduct, gross negligence, fraud or bad faith of the Operating Partnership or its employees, agents or affiliates are not expected to exceed the Operating Partnership's proportionate interest in the related mortgage debt in the case of the non-recourse, carve-out guaranty, or in the Operating Partnership's proportionate interest in the partial repayment guaranty, as applicable. The following summarizes the Operating Partnership's exposure under such guaranties (amounts in thousands):
				31-Dec-14						31-Dec-13
				Joint Venture Balance			Operating Partnership's Proportionate Interest			Joint Venture Balance			Operating Partnership's Proportionate Interest
		Ownership Percent		Loan Balance		Partial Repayment Guarantee	Loan Balance		Partial Repayment Guarantee	Loan Balance		Partial Repayment Guarantee	Loan Balance		Partial Repayment Guarantee
	University Village - Greensboro	25	%	$	23,643	n/a	$	5,911	n/a	$	23,971	n/a	$	5,993	n/a
	The Marshall	50	%	55,663		8,767	27,832		4,384	13,100		8,767	6,550		4,384
	Georgia Heights	50	%	—		7,230	—		3,615	—		—	—		—
	In connection with the development agreement entered into on July 14, 2010 for a project at the Science + Technology Park at Johns Hopkins Medical Institute (see Note 2), the Trust committed to provide a guarantee of repayment of a $42.0 million third-party construction loan for a $3.0 million fee, of which the carrying value approximated fair value. On July 1, 2014, the third-party owners refinanced the construction loan and the Trust was released from the guarantee obligations. The Trust collected and recognized the $3.0 million guarantee fee during the year ended December 31, 2014.
	In connection with the condominium agreement related to The Oaks on the Square project in Storrs, Connecticut (see Note 4) the Operating Partnership and LeylandAlliance LLC jointly committed to provide a guarantee of repayment of a $46.4 million construction loan to develop the residential and retail portions of the first two phases of the project. As of December 31, 2013, $43.2 million had been drawn on the construction loan of which $11.8 million was attributable to LeylandAlliance LLC; this amount is not included in our accompanying consolidated financial statements. On April 1, 2014, the construction loan for the first two phases of the project was repaid in full and the Trust was released from the guarantee obligations of the construction loan.
	During August 2013, the Operating Partnership and LeylandAlliance LLC entered into a $13.8 million construction loan for the third phase of the The Oaks on the Square project. Similar to the construction loan for the first two phases, the Operating Partnership and LeylandAlliance LLC jointly committed to provide a guarantee of repayment for the construction loan. As of December 31, 2013, $1.3 million had been drawn on the construction loan, of which $1.0 million, is attributable to LeylandAlliance LLC; these amounts are not included in our accompanying consolidated financial statements. On September 30, 2014, the construction loan for the third phase of the project was repaid in full and the Trust was released from the related guarantee obligations.
	During October 2014, the Operating Partnership and LeylandAlliance LLC entered into a $38.0 million construction loan for the fourth phase of the The Oaks on the Square project. Similar to the construction loan for the first three phases, the Operating Partnership and LeylandAlliance LLC jointly committed to provide a guarantee of repayment for the construction loan. As of December 31, 2014 no amounts had been drawn on the construction loan.
	As owners and operators of real estate, environmental laws impose ongoing compliance requirements on the Trust. The Trust is not aware of any environmental matters or liabilities with respect to the collegiate housing communities that would have a material adverse effect on the Trust’s consolidated financial condition or results of operations.
	In the normal course of business, the Trust is subject to claims, lawsuits and legal proceedings. While it is not possible to ascertain the ultimate outcome of such matters, in management’s opinion, the liabilities, if any, are not expected to have a material effect on our financial position, results of operations or liquidity.
	Under the terms of the limited partnership agreement of University Towers Operating Partnership, LP, so long as the contributing owners of such property hold at least 25% of the University Towers Partnership Units, the Trust has agreed to maintain certain minimum amounts of debt on the property to avoid triggering gain to the contributing owners. If the Trust fails to do this, the Trust must repay the contributing owners the amount of taxes they incur.
	After being awarded a development consulting contract, the Trust will enter into predevelopment consulting contracts with educational institutions to develop collegiate housing communities on their behalf. The Trust will enter into reimbursement agreements that provide for the Trust to be reimbursed for the predevelopment costs incurred prior to the institution’s governing body formally approving the final development contract. As of December 31, 2014 and 2013, the Trust had reimbursable predevelopment costs of $1.7 million and $1.6 million, respectively, which are reflected in other assets in the accompanying consolidated balance sheets.

Quarterly_financial_informatio

Quarterly financial information (unaudited)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2014
Quarterly Financial Information Disclosure [Abstract]
Quarterly financial information (unaudited)	Quarterly financial information (unaudited)
	Quarterly financial information for the years ended December 31, 2014 and 2013 is summarized below (in thousands, except per share data):
	2014		1st Quarter			2nd Quarter			3rd Quarter			4th Quarter			Total
	Revenues		$	54,545		$	50,040		$	54,704		$	66,504		$	225,793
	Operating expenses		46,233			53,691			52,939			48,990			201,853
	Nonoperating (income) expenses		6,683			5,440			(12,393		)	8,816			8,546
	Equity in losses of unconsolidated entities		(22		)	(112		)	(236		)	(340		)	(710		)
	Income taxes expense/(benefit)		45			(357		)	910			(337		)	261
	Noncontrolling interests		398			(38		)	33			206			599
	Gain on sale of collegiate housing communities		10,902			—			8,421			13,908			33,231
	Net income (loss) attributable to Education Realty Trust, Inc.		$	12,066		$	(8,808	)	$	21,400		$	22,397		$	47,055
	Net income (loss) per share- basic		$	0.31		$	(0.23	)	$	0.46		$	0.47		$	1.1
	Net income (loss) per share- diluted		$	0.31		$	(0.23	)	$	0.45		$	0.47		$	1.09
	Net income (loss) attributable to Education Realty Operating Partnership		$	12,166		$	(8,787	)	$	21,536		$	22,507		$	47,422
	Net income (loss) per unit - basic		$	0.11		$	(0.07	)	$	0.15		$	0.16		$	0.37
	Net income (loss) per unit - diluted		$	0.1		$	(0.07	)	$	0.15		$	0.16		$	0.37
	2013		1st Quarter			2nd Quarter			3rd Quarter			4th Quarter			Total
	Revenues		$	44,671		$	41,038		$	43,469		$	55,198		$	184,376
	Operating expenses		37,558			37,344			42,718			42,426			160,046
	Nonoperating expenses		4,355			4,141			4,878			5,463			18,837
	Equity in losses of unconsolidated entities		(20		)	(21		)	(61		)	(101		)	(203		)
	Income taxes expense/(benefit)		(237		)	—			(32		)	472			203
	Noncontrolling interests		169			(143		)	(20		)	302			308
	Discontinued operations(1)		503			4,157			(326		)	(4,790		)	(456		)
	Net income (loss) attributable to Education Realty Trust, Inc.		$	3,309		$	3,832		$	(4,462	)	$	1,644		$	4,323
	Net income (loss) per share- basic and diluted		$	0.09		$	0.1		$	(0.12	)	$	0.04		$	0.11
	Net income (loss) attributable to Education Realty Operating Partnership		$	3,346		$	3,873		$	(4,482	)	$	1,667		$	4,404
	Net income (loss) per unit - basic and diluted		$	0.03		$	0.03		$	(0.04	)	$	0.01		$	0.04
	-1	All quarterly information presented above for 2013 reflects the classification of the properties sold during 2013 in discontinued operations (see Note 5). Discontinued operations for the 4th quarter of 2013 includes an impairment loss of $5,001.

Subsequent_events

Subsequent events	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2014
Subsequent Events [Abstract]
Subsequent events	Subsequent events
	The Board declared a fourth quarter distribution of $0.36 per share of common stock and $0.12 per OP Unit for the quarter ended on December 31, 2014. The distributions were paid on February 13, 2015 to stockholders of record at the close of business on January 30, 2015.

Summary_of_significant_account1

Summary of significant accounting policies (Policies)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2014
Accounting Policies [Abstract]
Basis of presentation and principles of consolidation	Basis of presentation
	The accompanying consolidated financial statements have been prepared on the accrual basis of accounting in conformity with accounting principles generally accepted in the United States (“GAAP”). The accompanying consolidated financial statements of the Trust represent the assets and liabilities and operating results of the Trust and its majority owned subsidiaries.
	All intercompany balances and transactions have been eliminated in the accompanying consolidated financial statements.
Use of estimates	Use of estimates
	The preparation of financial statements in conformity with GAAP requires management to make estimates and assumptions that affect the reported amounts of assets and liabilities and disclosures of contingent assets and liabilities at the date of the financial statements and the reported amounts of revenues and expenses during the reporting period. Significant estimates and assumptions are used by management in determining the recognition of third-party development consulting services revenue under the percentage of completion method, useful lives of collegiate housing assets, the valuation of goodwill, the initial valuations and underlying allocations of purchase price in connection with collegiate housing property acquisitions, and the determination of fair value for impairment assessments and derivative valuation. Actual results could differ from those estimates.
Cash and cash equivalents	Cash and cash equivalents
	All highly-liquid investments with a maturity of three months or less when purchased are considered cash equivalents. Restricted cash is excluded from cash for the purpose of preparing the consolidated statements of cash flows. The Trust maintains cash balances in various banks. At times, the amounts of cash may exceed the amount the Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation (“FDIC”) insures.
Restricted cash	Restricted cash
	Restricted cash includes escrow accounts held by lenders for the purpose of paying taxes, insurance, principal and interest and funding capital improvements.
Distributions	Distributions
	EdR pays regular quarterly cash distributions to stockholders. At the same time, EROP pays an equivalent amount per unit to holders of partnership units of the Operating Partnership ("OP Units") as of the record date. These distributions are determined quarterly by the Board of Directors (“Board”) based on the operating results, economic conditions, capital expenditure requirements, the REIT annual distribution requirements of the Code, leverage covenants imposed by our revolving credit facility and other debt documents, and any other matters the Board deems relevant.
Notes receivable	Notes receivable
	On August 26, 2013, the Trust provided a $0.5 million promissory loan to College Park Apartments, Inc. ("CPA"), the Trust's partner in the unconsolidated joint venture University Village-Greensboro LLC (see Note 8), at an interest rate of 10% per annum and a maturity date of August 1, 2020. Under the loan, CPA can make one draw per calendar quarter. At December 31, 2014 and 2013, $0.4 million and $0.1 million, respectively, was outstanding. The loan is secured by CPA's interest in the joint venture.
	On July 14, 2010, the Trust entered into definitive agreements for the development, financing and management of a $60.7 million, 20-story, 572-bed graduate collegiate housing complex at the Science + Technology Park at Johns Hopkins Medical Institute. The Trust developed and manages the building, which was constructed on land owned by Johns Hopkins University and leased to a subsidiary of East Baltimore Development, Inc., a nonprofit partnership of private and public entities dedicated to Baltimore’s urban revitalization. Under terms of the agreements, the Trust (a) received development and construction oversight fees and reimbursement of pre-development expenses, (b) invested in the form of an $18.0 million second mortgage, (c) will earn a $3.0 million fee for providing a repayment guarantee of the construction first mortgage and (d) received a 10-year management contract. The second mortgage had a maturity date of July 31, 2040. As of December 31, 2013, the notes receivable for the second mortgage had a balance of $18.0 million and is recorded in notes receivable in the accompanying consolidated balance sheet. The Trust did not have an ownership interest in any form that would require consolidation. Due to its financing commitments to the project along with other factors, the Trust deferred recognition of the development services revenue, guarantee fee revenue and interest income earned on the second mortgage until the second mortgage was repaid, and the Trust no longer had a substantial continuing financial involvement. During the year ended December 31, 2014, the third party owners closed on permanent financing for the community and used the proceeds to repay the construction first mortgage and second mortgage.
Collegiate housing properties	Collegiate housing properties
	Land, land improvements, buildings and improvements, and furniture, fixtures and equipment are recorded at cost. Buildings and improvements are depreciated over 15 to 40 years, land improvements are depreciated over 15 years and furniture, fixtures, and equipment are depreciated over 3 to 7 years. Depreciation is computed using the straight-line method for financial reporting purposes over the estimated useful life.
	For assets under development, the Trust capitalizes interest based on the weighted average interest cost of the total debt and internal development costs as assets under development. When the property opens, these costs, along with other direct costs of the development, are transferred into the applicable asset category and depreciation commences.
	Acquired collegiate housing communities’ results of operations are included in the Trust’s results of operations from the respective dates of acquisition. Appraisals, estimates of cash flows and other valuation techniques are used to allocate the purchase price of acquired property between land, land improvements, buildings and improvements, furniture, fixtures and equipment and identifiable intangibles such as amounts related to in-place leases. Acquisition costs are expensed as incurred and are included in general and administrative expenses in the accompanying consolidated statements of income and comprehensive income.
	Management assesses impairment of long-lived assets to be held and used whenever events or changes in circumstances indicate that the carrying amount of an asset may not be recoverable. Management uses an estimate of future undiscounted cash flows of the related asset based on its intended use to determine whether the carrying value is recoverable. If the Trust determines that the carrying value of an asset is not recoverable, the fair value of the asset is estimated and an impairment loss is recorded to the extent the carrying value exceeds estimated fair value. Management estimates fair value using discounted cash flow models, market appraisals if available, and other market participant data.
	During the years ended December 31, 2014 and 2013, the Trust recorded a $12.7 million and a $5.0 million loss on impairment of collegiate housing properties, respectively. The impairment losses were due to a change in circumstances that indicated their respective carrying values may not be recoverable. The change in circumstances for the properties could be attributable to changes in property specific market conditions, changes in anticipated future use and/or leasing results or a combination of these factors.
	When a collegiate housing community has met the criteria to be classified as held for sale, the fair value less cost to sell such asset is estimated. If the fair value less cost to sell the asset is less than the carrying amount of the asset, an impairment charge is recorded for the estimated loss. Depreciation expense is no longer recorded once a collegiate housing community has met the held for sale criteria. Operations of collegiate housing communities that are sold or classified as held for sale were recorded as part of discontinued operations prior to January 1, 2014. During the year ended December 31, 2013 and 2012, five properties were classified as discontinued operations in the accompanying consolidated statements of income and comprehensive income. All five of these properties were sold by December 31, 2013 (see Note 5). Effective January 1, 2014, the Trust adopted Accounting Standards Update ("ASU") No. 2014-08 related to the presentation of discontinued operations. Prospectively, only dispositions that represent a strategic shift in the business will qualify for treatment as discontinued operations. The property dispositions during the year ended December 31, 2014 did not qualify for treatment as discontinued operations and, as a result, the operations of the properties are included in continuing operations in the accompanying consolidated statements of income and comprehensive income.
Deferred financing costs	Deferred financing costs
	Deferred financing costs represent costs incurred in connection with acquiring debt facilities.
Redeemable noncontrolling interests (the Trust) / redeemable limited partners (EROP)	Redeemable noncontrolling interests (the Trust) / redeemable limited partners (EROP)
	The Trust follows the guidance issued by the Financial Accounting Standards Board ("FASB") regarding the classification and measurement of redeemable securities. The Trust classifies redeemable noncontrolling interests, which include redeemable interests in consolidated joint ventures and units of limited partnership interest in University Towers Operating Partnership, LP and in the Operating Partnership in the mezzanine section of the accompanying consolidated balance sheets. In the accompanying consolidated balance sheets of the Operating Partnership, the redeemable units of limited partnership in the Operating Partnership are classified as redeemable limited partners. The redeemable noncontrolling interest units / redeemable limited partner units are adjusted to the greater of carrying value or fair market value based on the common share price of EdR at the end of each respective reporting period.
Common stock issuances and offering costs	Common stock issuances and offering costs
	Specific incremental costs directly attributable to the issuance of EdR common stock are charged against the gross proceeds of the related issuance. Accordingly, underwriting commissions and other stock issuance costs are reflected as a reduction of additional paid-in capital in the accompanying consolidated statement of changes in equity.
	The Trust is structured as an umbrella partnership REIT ("UPREIT") and contributes all proceeds from its various equity offerings to EROP. For every one share of common stock offered and sold by EdR for cash, EdR must contribute the net proceeds to EROP and, in return, EROP will issue three OP Units to EdR (rather than the one-to-one relationship that existed prior to the reverse stock split). As stipulated in the Operating Partnership Agreement, proceeds from equity offerings are deemed to be contributed to the Operating Partnership at the gross amount with EROP incurring expenses related to the underwriters commission and other offering costs. Accordingly, proceeds from common stock issuances contributed to EROP in exchange for OP Units are presented gross on the Operating Partnership's consolidated statement of cash flows and consolidated statement of changes in partners' capital and noncontrolling interest. The payment of offering costs by EROP on behalf of the Trust is considered a distribution.
Debt premiums	Debt premiums
	Differences between the estimated fair value of debt and the principal value of debt assumed in connection with collegiate housing property acquisitions are amortized over the term of the related debt as an offset to interest expense using the effective interest method. As of December 31, 2014 and 2013, net unamortized debt premiums totaled $1.5 million and $2.3 million, respectively. These amounts are included in mortgage and construction loans in the accompanying consolidated balance sheets.
Income taxes	Income taxes
	EdR qualifies as a REIT under the Code. EdR is generally not subject to federal, state and local income taxes on any of its taxable income that it distributes if it distributes at least 90% of its REIT taxable income for each tax year to its stockholders and meets certain other requirements. If EdR fails to qualify as a REIT for any taxable year, EdR will be subject to federal, state and local income taxes (including any applicable alternative minimum tax) on its taxable income.
	The Trust has elected to treat certain of its subsidiaries, including the Management Company, as TRSs. A TRS is subject to federal, state and local income taxes. Our Management Company provides management services and through our Development Company, provides development services, which if directly provided by the Trust would jeopardize EdR’s REIT status. Deferred tax assets and liabilities are recognized based on the difference between the financial statement carrying amounts of existing assets and liabilities and their respective tax basis. Deferred tax assets and liabilities are measured using enacted tax rates in effect in the years in which those temporary differences are expected to reverse.
Repairs, maintenance and major improvements	Repairs, maintenance and major improvements
	The costs of ordinary repairs and maintenance are charged to operations when incurred. Major improvements that extend the life of an asset are capitalized and depreciated over the remaining useful life of the asset. Planned major repair, maintenance and improvement projects are capitalized when performed. In some circumstances, the lenders require the Trust to maintain a reserve account for future repairs and capital expenditures. These amounts are classified as restricted cash in the accompanying consolidated balance sheets as the funds are not available for use.
Goodwill and other intangible assets	Goodwill and other intangible assets
	Goodwill is tested annually for impairment as of December 31, and is tested for impairment more frequently if events and circumstances indicate that the assets might be impaired. An impairment loss is recognized to the extent that the carrying amount exceeds the asset’s fair value. The accumulated impairment loss recorded as of December 31, 2008 was $0.4 million. No additional impairment has been recorded through December 31, 2014. The carrying value of goodwill was $3.1 million as of December 31, 2014 and 2013, of which $2.1 million was recorded on the management services segment and $0.9 million was recorded on the development consulting services segment. Goodwill is not subject to amortization. Other intangible assets generally include in-place leases acquired in connection with acquisitions and are amortized over the estimated life of the lease/contract term.
Investment in unconsolidated entities	Investment in unconsolidated entities
	The Trust accounts for its investments in unconsolidated joint ventures using the equity method whereby the costs of an investment are adjusted for the Trust’s share of earnings of the respective investment reduced by distributions received. The earnings and distributions of the unconsolidated joint ventures are allocated based on each owner’s respective ownership interests. These investments are classified as other assets or accrued expenses, depending on whether the distributions exceed the Trust’s contributions and share of earnings in the joint ventures, in the accompanying consolidated balance sheets (see Note 8).
Revenue recognition	Revenue recognition
	The Trust recognizes revenue related to leasing activities at the collegiate housing communities owned by the Trust, management fees related to managing third-party collegiate housing communities, development consulting fees related to the general oversight of third-party collegiate housing development and operating expense reimbursements for payroll and related expenses incurred for third-party collegiate housing communities managed by the Trust.
	Collegiate housing leasing revenue — Collegiate housing leasing revenue is comprised of all activities related to leasing and operating the collegiate housing communities and includes revenues from leasing apartments by the bed, food services, parking lot rentals and providing certain ancillary services. Students are required to execute lease contracts with payment schedules that vary from semester to monthly payments. Generally, the Trust requires each executed leasing contract to be accompanied by a signed parental guarantee. Receivables are recorded when billed. Revenues and nonrefundable application and service fees are recognized on a straight-line basis over the term of the contracts. At certain collegiate housing facilities, the Trust offers parking lot rentals to the residents. The related revenues are recognized on a straight-line basis over the term of the related agreement. Deferred revenue related to collegiate housing revenue consists of prepaid rent and deferred rent revenue, application and service fees and was $17.1 million and $15.0 million at December 31, 2014 and 2013, respectively.
	Due to the nature of the Trust’s business, accounts receivable result primarily from monthly billings of student rents. Payments are normally received within 30 days. Balances are considered past due when payment is not received on the contractual due date. Allowances for uncollectible accounts are established by management when it is determined that collection is doubtful. Such allowances are reviewed periodically based upon experience. The following table reconciles the allowance for doubtful accounts as of and for the years ended December 31, 2014, 2013 and 2012 (in thousands):
		2014			2013			2012
	Balance, beginning of period	$	96		$	142		$	133
	Provision for uncollectible accounts	1,263			1,379			1,128
	Deductions	(1,301		)	(1,425		)	(1,119		)
	Balance, end of period	$	58		$	96		$	142
	Third-party development services revenue — The Trust provides development consulting services in an agency capacity with third parties whereby the fee is determined based upon the total construction costs. Total fees vary from 3 – 5% of the total estimated costs, and the Trust typically receives a portion of the fees up front. These fees, including the up-front fee, are recognized using the percentage of completion method in proportion to the contract costs incurred by the owner over the course of construction of the respective projects. Occasionally, the development consulting contracts include a provision whereby the Trust can participate in project savings resulting from successful cost management efforts. These revenues are recognized once all contractual terms have been satisfied and no future performance requirements exist. This typically occurs after construction is complete. For the years ended December 31, 2014, 2013 and 2012, there was $1.2 million, $0.8 million and $0.2 million of revenue recognized, respectively, related to cost savings agreements on development projects.
	At December 31, 2014 and 2013, deferred development fees totaled $0.2 million and $2.8 million (including deferred development fees of $2.6 million related to the participating project at Johns Hopkins), respectively. In addition, deferred revenue included deferred interest income related to the participating project at Johns Hopkins of $5.6 million as of December 31, 2013.
	Third-party management services revenue — The Trust enters into management contracts to manage third-party collegiate housing communities. Management revenues are recognized when earned in accordance with each management contract. Incentive management fees are recognized when the incentive criteria have been met.
	Operating expense reimbursements — The Trust pays certain payroll and related costs to operate and manage third-party collegiate housing communities. Under the terms of the related management agreements, the third-party property owners reimburse these costs. The amounts billed to the third-party owners are recognized as revenue.
Costs related to development consulting services	Costs related to development consulting services
	Costs associated with the pursuit of third-party development consulting contracts are expensed as incurred, until such time that management has been notified of a contract award. At such time, the reimbursable costs are recorded as receivables and are reflected as other assets in the accompanying consolidated balance sheets (see Note 7).
	Costs directly associated with internal development projects are capitalized as part of the cost of the project.
Advertising expense	Advertising expense
	Advertising expenses are charged to income during the period incurred. The Trust does not use direct response advertising.
Segment information	Segment information
	The Trust discloses certain operating and financial data with respect to separate business activities within its enterprise. The Trust has identified three reportable business segments: collegiate housing leasing, collegiate housing development consulting services and collegiate housing management services.
Stock based compensation	Stock-based compensation
	On May 4, 2011, the Trust’s stockholders approved the Education Realty Trust, Inc. 2012 Omnibus Equity Incentive Plan (the “2011 Plan”). The 2011 Plan replaced the Education Realty Trust, Inc. 2004 Incentive Plan (“2004 Plan”) in its entirety. The 2011 Plan is described more fully in Note 9. Compensation costs related to share-based payments are recognized in the accompanying consolidated financial statements in accordance with authoritative guidance.
Earnings per share	Earnings per share
	Earnings per Share - The Trust
	Basic earnings per share is calculated by dividing net earnings available to common stockholders by weighted average shares of common stock outstanding. Diluted earnings per share is calculated similarly, except that it includes the dilutive effect of the assumed exercise of potentially dilutive securities. The Trust follows the authoritative guidance regarding the determination of whether certain instruments are participating securities. All unvested share-based payment awards that contain nonforfeitable rights to dividends or dividend equivalents are included in the computation of earnings per share under the two-class method. This results in shares of unvested restricted stock being included in the computation of basic earnings per share for all periods presented.
	Earnings per OP Unit - EROP
	Basic earnings per unit is calculated by dividing net earnings available to unitholders by the weighted average number of OP Units outstanding. Diluted earnings per unit is calculated similarly, except that it includes the dilutive effect of the assumed exercise of potentially dilutive securities. EROP follows the authoritative guidance regarding the determination of whether certain instruments are participating securities.
Fair value measurements	Fair value measurements
	The Trust follows the guidance contained in FASB Accounting Standards Codification 820, Fair Value Measurements and Disclosures ("ASC 820"). Fair value is generally defined as the exit price at which an asset or liability could be exchanged in a current transaction between willing unrelated parties, other than in a forced liquidation or sale. ASC 820 establishes a fair value hierarchy, giving the highest priority to quoted prices in active markets and the lowest priority to unobservable data, and requires disclosures for assets and liabilities measured at fair value based on their level in the hierarchy.
	The fair value framework requires the categorization of assets and liabilities into three levels based upon the assumptions used to value the assets or liabilities. Level 1 provides the most reliable measure of fair value, whereas Level 3 generally requires significant management judgment. The three levels are defined as follows:
	•	Level 1 - Unadjusted quoted prices in active markets for identical assets or liabilities at the measurement date.
	•	Level 2 - Observable inputs other than those included in Level 1, for example, quoted prices for similar assets or liabilities in active markets or quoted prices for identical assets or liabilities in inactive markets.
	•	Level 3 - Unobservable inputs reflecting management's own assumption about the inputs used in pricing the asset or liability at the measurement date.
	Non-financial assets measured at fair value on a nonrecurring basis consist of real estate assets and investments in partially owned entities that have been written-down to estimated fair value when it has been determined that asset values are not recoverable. Fair value is estimated relating to impairment assessments based upon an income capitalization approach (which considers prevailing market capitalization rates and operations of the community) or the negotiated sales price, if applicable. Based upon the inputs used to value properties under the income capitalization approach, valuations under this method are classified within Level 3 of its fair value hierarchy. For the communities for which the estimated fair value was based on negotiated sales prices, the valuation was classified within Level 2 of the fair value hierarchy.
Derivative instruments and hedging activities	Derivative instruments and hedging activities
	All derivative financial instruments are recorded on the balance sheet at fair value. Changes in fair value are recognized either in earnings or as other comprehensive income (loss), depending on whether the derivative has been designated as a fair value or cash flow hedge and whether it qualifies as part of a hedging relationship, the nature of the exposure being hedged, and how effective the derivative is at offsetting movements in underlying exposure. Hedge accounting is discontinued when it is determined that the derivative is no longer effective in offsetting changes in the fair value or cash flows of a hedged item; the derivative expires or is sold, terminated, or exercised; it is no longer probable that the forecasted transaction will occur; or management determines that designating the derivative as a hedging instrument is no longer appropriate. The Trust uses interest rate swaps to effectively convert a portion of its variable rate debt to fixed rate, thus reducing the impact of changes in interest rates on interest payments (see Notes 10 and 14). These instruments are designated as cash flow hedges and the interest differential to be paid or received is recorded as interest expense.
Recent accounting pronouncements	Recent accounting pronouncements
	In February 2015, the FASB issued ASU 2015-02, "Consolidation (Topic 810)" ("ASU 2015-02"), which amends the consolidation requirements in ASC 810, Consolidation. ASU 2015-02 affects reporting entities that are required to evaluate whether they should consolidate certain legal entities. All legal entities are subject to reevaluation under the revised consolidation model. Specifically, the amendments: (i) modify the evaluation of whether limited partnerships and similar legal entities are variable interest entities ("VIEs") or voting interest entities, (ii) eliminate the presumption that a general partner should consolidate a limited partnership, (iii) affect the consolidated analysis of reporting entities that are involved with VIEs, particularly those that have fee arrangements and related party relationships and (iv) provide a scope exception for certain entities. ASU 2015-02 is effective for annual reporting periods beginning after December 15, 2015, and interim periods within those fiscal years. The Trust is currently evaluating the provisions of this guidance.
	In May 2014, the FASB issued ASU 2014-09, "Revenue from Contracts with Customers (Topic 606)" ("ASU 2014-09"). The guidance outlines a single comprehensive model for entities to use in accounting for revenue arising from contracts with customers and supersedes most current revenue recognition guidance, including the guidance on real estate derecognition for most transactions. ASU 2014-09 provides that an entity should recognize revenue to depict the transfer of promised goods or services to customers in an amount that reflects the consideration to which the entity expects to be entitled in exchange for those goods and services. ASU 2014-09 is effective for annual reporting periods beginning after December 15, 2016, and interim periods within those years and permits the use of either the retrospective or cumulative effect transition method. The Trust is currently evaluating the provisions of this guidance.
	In April 2014, the FASB issued ASU 2014-08, "Presentation of Financial Statements (Topic 205) and Property, Plant and Equipment (Topic 360) - Reporting Discontinued Operations and Disclosures of Disposals of Components of an Entity" ("ASU 2014-08"). ASU 2014-08 changes the threshold for disclosing discontinued operations and the related disclosure requirements. Pursuant to ASU 2014-08, only disposals representing a strategic shift, such as a major line of business, a major geographical area or a major equity investment, should be presented as a discontinued operation. The guidance is to be applied prospectively to new disposals and new classifications of disposal groups as held for sale after the effective date. ASU 2014-08 is effective for annual periods beginning on or after December 15, 2014 with early adoption permitted. The Trust adopted ASU 2014-08 as of January 1, 2014.

Summary_of_significant_account2

Summary of significant accounting policies (Tables)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2014
Accounting Policies [Abstract]
Schedule of allowance for doubtful accounts	The following table reconciles the allowance for doubtful accounts as of and for the years ended December 31, 2014, 2013 and 2012 (in thousands):
		2014			2013			2012
	Balance, beginning of period	$	96		$	142		$	133
	Provision for uncollectible accounts	1,263			1,379			1,128
	Deductions	(1,301		)	(1,425		)	(1,119		)
	Balance, end of period	$	58		$	96		$	142

Income_taxes_Tables

Income taxes (Tables)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2014
Income Tax Disclosure [Abstract]
Significant Components of Deferred Tax Assets	Significant components of the deferred tax assets and liabilities as of December 31, 2014 and 2013 are as follows (in thousands):
		2014			2013
	Deferred tax assets:
	Deferred revenue	$	—		$	1,022
	Accrued expenses	381			252
	Straight line rent	343			366
	Restricted stock amortization	1,076			85
	Net operating loss carryforwards	1,346			418
	Total deferred tax assets	3,146			2,143
	Deferred tax liabilities:
	Depreciation and amortization	(526		)	(634		)
	Total deferred tax liabilities	(526		)	(634		)
	Net deferred tax assets	$	2,620		$	1,509
Significant Components of Income Tax Provisions Benefits	Significant components of the income tax provision (benefit) for the years ended December 31, 2014, 2013 and 2012 are as follows (in thousands):
		2014			2013			2012
	Deferred:
	Federal	$	108		$	(296	)	$	895
	State	57			36			148
	Deferred expense (benefit)	165			(260		)	1,043
	Current:
	Federal	(52		)	312			(1,326		)
	State	148			151			(601		)
	Current (benefit) expense	96			463			(1,927		)
	Total (benefit) provision	$	261		$	203		$	(884	)
Reconciliation of Income Tax Attributable to Income before Noncontrolling Interest Computed at United States Statutory Rate to Income Tax Provision	The reconciliation of income tax attributable to income before noncontrolling interest computed at the U.S. statutory rate to income tax provision is as follows (in thousands):
		2014			2013			2012
	Tax provision at U.S. statutory rates on TRS income subject to tax	$	71		$	15		$	(566	)
	State income tax, net of federal benefit	34			126			(312		)
	Other	156			62			(6		)
	Tax provision (benefit)	$	261		$	203		$	(884	)

Acquisition_and_development_of1

Acquisition and development of real estate investments (Tables)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2014
Real Estate [Abstract]
Schedule of Business Acquisitions, by Acquisition	During the year ended December 31, 2014, the following collegiate housing property acquisitions were completed:
	Name		Primary University Served		Acquisition		# of Beds		# of Units		Contract Price (in thousands)
					Date
	109 Tower		Florida International University Miami, Florida		Aug-14		542		149		$	43,500
	District on Apache		Arizona State University Tempe, Arizona		Sep-14		900		279		$	89,800
	During the year ended December 31, 2013, the following collegiate housing community acquisitions were completed:
	Name		Primary University Served		Acquisition		# of Beds			# of Units			Contract Price (in thousands)
					Date
	The Cottages on Lindberg		Purdue University West Lafayette, Indiana		Aug-13		745			193			$	36,000
	The Retreat at State College		Pennsylvania State University State College, Pennsylvania		Sep-13		587			138			$	56,189
	The Varsity		University of Michigan Ann Arbor, Michigan		Dec-13		415			181			$	53,950
	During the year ended December 31, 2012, the following collegiate housing community acquisitions were completed:
	Name		Primary University Served		Acquisition		# of Beds			# of Units			Contract Price (in thousands)
					Date
	The Reserve on Stinson (1)		University of Oklahoma		Jan-12		612			204			$	22,954
			Norman, Oklahoma
	The Province		East Carolina University Greenville, North Carolina		Sep-12		728			235			$	50,000
	The District on 5th		University of Arizona		Oct-12		764			208			$	66,442
			Tucson, Arizona
	Campus Village (2)		Michigan State University		Oct-12		355			106			$	20,900
			East Lansing, Michigan
	The Province		Kent State University		Nov-12		596			246			$	45,000
			Kent, Ohio
	The Suites at Overton Park		Texas Tech University		Dec-12		465			298			$	37,000
			Lubbock, Texas
	The Centre at Overton Park		Texas Tech University		Dec-12		400			278			$	37,000
			Lubbock, Texas
	-1	The Trust had a 10% equity investment in the entity that previously owned The Reserve on Stinson collegiate housing community and also managed the property prior to the acquisition.
	-2	The Trust entered into a 32-year ground lease, with the option to extend the lease 20 additional years subject to certain conditions, which requires an increase in annual rent expense to be determined on predetermined adjustment dates based on the consumer price index for the life of the lease.
Fair Values of Assets Acquired and Liabilities Assumed	A summary follows of the fair values of the assets acquired and the liabilities assumed as of the dates of the acquisitions (in thousands):
			109 Tower				District on Apache				Total
	Collegiate housing properties		$	43,384			$	89,216			$	132,600
	In-place leases		—				643				643
	Other assets		200				36				236
	Current liabilities		(746		)		(1,341		)		(2,087		)
	Total net assets acquired		$	42,838			$	88,554			$	131,392
	A summary follows of the fair values of the assets acquired and the liabilities assumed as of the dates of the acquisitions (in thousands):
		The Province at East Carolina				The District on 5th				The Suites and Centre at Overton Park				Other				Total
	Collegiate housing properties	$	49,609			$	65,997			$	76,678			$	88,129			$	280,413
	Other assets	502				475				4,830				971				6,778
	Current liabilities	(531		)		(545		)		(1,651		)		(1,356		)		(4,083		)
	Mortgage debt	—				—				(51,625		)		—				(51,625		)
	Total net assets acquired	$	49,580			$	65,927			$	28,232			$	87,744			$	231,483
	A summary follows of the fair values of the assets acquired and the liabilities assumed as of the dates of the acquisitions (in thousands):
		The Cottages on Lindberg				The Retreat at State College				The Varsity				Total
	Collegiate housing properties	$	35,704			$	55,812			$	53,630			$	145,146
	Other assets	347				442				481				1,270
	Current liabilities	(689		)		(405		)		(449		)		(1,543		)
	Mortgage debt	—				—				(32,420		)		(32,420		)
	Total net assets acquired	$	35,362			$	55,849			$	21,242			$	112,453
Acquisitions Revenue Net Income and Earnings Per Share of Combined Entity had Acquisition Date Been as of Beginning of Period	A summary of the actual revenue and net income from the 2014, 2013 and 2012 property acquisitions included in the accompanying consolidated statements of income and comprehensive income since the respective dates of acquisition is as follows (in thousands):
			Years Ended December 31,
			2014				2013				2012
	2014 Acquisitions
	Revenue		$	4,683
	Net income		$	1,403
	2013 Acquisitions
	Revenue						$	3,221
	Net income						$	911
	2012 Acquisitions
	Revenue										$	7,830
	Net income										$	1,549
	The following unaudited pro forma information assumes the acquisitions occurred as of the first day of the prior period and is not indicative of results that would have occurred or which may occur (in thousands, except per share amounts):
			Years Ended December 31,
			2014				2013				2012				2011
	2014 Acquisitions
	Total revenue		$	231,961			$	187,884
	Net income attributable to the Trust		$	50,794			$	5,714
	Net income attributable to common shareholders - basic		$	1.18			$	0.15
	Net income attributable to common shareholders - diluted		$	1.17			$	0.15
	Net income attributable to EROP		$	51,184			$	5,805
	Net income attributable to unitholders - basic		$	0.39			$	0.05
	Net income attributable to unitholders - diluted		$	0.39			$	0.05
	2013 Acquisitions
	Total revenue						$	187,961			$	139,714
	Net income attributable to the Trust						$	4,841			$	9,229
	Net income attributable to common shareholders - basic						$	0.13			$	0.27
	Net income attributable to common shareholders - diluted						$	0.13			$	0.27
	Net income attributable to EROP						$	4,926			$	9,363
	Net income attributable to unitholders - basic						$	0.04			$	0.09
	Net income attributable to unitholders - diluted						$	0.04			$	0.09
	2012 Acquisitions
	Total revenue										$	150,370			$	119,456
	Net income attributable to the Trust										$	10,568			$	(12,490	)
	Net income attributable to common shareholders - basic										$	0.31			$	(0.50	)
	Net income attributable to common shareholders - diluted										$	0.31			$	(0.50	)
	Net income attributable to EROP										$	10,709			$	(12,452	)
	Net income attributable to unitholders - basic										$	0.1			$	(0.16	)
	Net income attributable to unitholders - diluted										$	0.1			$	(0.16	)
Development of Collegiate Housing Properties	During 2014, the Trust developed the following communities. The costs incurred to date represent the balance capitalized in collegiate housing properties, net as of December 31, 2014 (dollars in thousands):
												Years Ended December 31,
	Name		Primary University Served		Bed Count			Costs Incurred-to-Date				Internal Development Costs Capitalized								Interest Costs Capitalized
												2014				2013				2014				2013
	The Lotus (1)		University of Colorado		195			$	27,800			$	147			$	95			$	272			$	120
	Haggin Hall (2)		University of Kentucky		396			23,840				121				115				341				62
	Champions Court I (2)		University of Kentucky		740			47,368				156				110				833				389
	Champions Court II (2)		University of Kentucky		427			24,329				88				95				434				205
	Woodland Glen I & II (2)		University of Kentucky		818			45,730				131				104				765				350
	605 West (3)		Duke University		384			45,258				128				116				650				322
	The Oaks on the Square - Phase III (4)		University of Connecticut		116			12,482				90				22				87				51
	Total owned communities				3,076			226,807				861				657				3,382				1,499
	The Marshall (5)		University of Minnesota		994			93,976				124				62				410				23
	Total joint ventures				994			93,976				124				62				410				23
	Total				4,070			$	320,783			$	985			$	719			$	3,792			$	1,522
	(1) In November 2011, the Trust purchased a collegiate housing property near the University of Colorado, Boulder (The Lotus). The Trust developed additional housing on the existing land, which opened for the 2014/2015 lease year.
	(2) In December 2011, the Trust was selected by the University of Kentucky to develop, own and manage new collegiate housing on its campus. This project will be financed through the ONE PlanSM. Phase I opened in August 2013 and Phase II, which includes these communities, opened for the 2014-2015 lease year.
	(3) In March 2013, the Trust announced an agreement with Javelin 19 Investments, LLC ("Javelin 19") to develop, own and manage a new collegiate housing property near Duke University, 605 West. The Trust is the majority owner and managing member of the joint venture and manages the community, which opened in August 2014. For a period of five years from the date on which the property receives its initial certificate of occupancy, Javelin 19 has the right to require the Trust to purchase Javelin 19’s 10% interest in the joint venture at a price to be determined.
	(4) In 2010, LeylandAlliance LLC and the Trust entered into an agreement to develop the first two phases of Storrs Center, a mixed-use town center project, adjacent to the University of Connecticut. The Trust developed, owns and manages the collegiate housing properties in these first two phases and both phases include commercial and residential offerings. The first phase opened in August 2012 and the second phase opened in August 2013. LeylandAlliance LLC and the Trust subsequently entered into additional agreements to develop the third and fourth phases of the project. The third phase opened in August 2014 and the fourth phase is under development.
	(5) In 2012, Trust entered into an agreement to develop, own and manage a mixed-use development located two blocks from University of Minnesota. The Trust holds a 50% interest in the joint venture and manages the community, which opened in August 2014. The Trust's investment in the property of $18.4 million is classified as other assets in the accompanying consolidated balance sheets.
	During 2013, the Trust developed the following communities. The costs incurred to date represent the balance capitalized in collegiate housing properties, net as of December 31, 2013 (dollars in thousands):
												Years Ended December 31,
	Name		Primary University Served		Bed Count			Costs Incurred-to-date				Internal Development Costs Capitalized								Interest Costs Capitalized
												2013				2012				2013				2012
	2400 Nueces (1)		The University of Texas at Austin		622			$	69,969			$	295			$	132			$	1,247			$	884
	Central Hall I & II (2)		University of Kentucky		601			25,401				132				230				439				150
	The Oaks on the Square - Phase II (3)		University of Connecticut		250			29,262				91				81				582				751
	The Retreat at Oxford (4)		University of Mississippi		668			35,984				49				55				418				270
	Roosevelt Point (5)		Arizona State University - Downtown Phoenix		609			50,596				74				100				669				535
	Total owned communities				2,750			$	211,212			$	641			$	598			$	3,355			$	2,590
	(1) In July 2010, the University of Texas Board of Regents selected the Trust to be the ground tenant to develop, own and manage a new high rise collegiate housing community near the core of the University of Texas at Austin campus (2400 Nueces). The community opened in August 2013.
	(2) In December 2011, the Trust was selected by the University of Kentucky to develop, own and manage new collegiate housing on its campus. This project will be financed through the Trust’s ONE PlanSM. Phase I, which includes this community, opened in August 2013.
	(3) In September of 2010, LeylandAlliance LLC and the Trust entered into an agreement to develop the first two phases of Storrs Center, a mixed-use town center project, adjacent to the University of Connecticut. The Trust developed, owns and manages the collegiate housing properties in these first two phases and both phases include commercial and residential offerings. The first phase opened in August 2012 and the second phase opened in August 2013.
	(4) In January 2012, the Trust entered into a joint venture agreement with Landmark Properties to develop, own and manage a new cottage-
	style collegiate housing community near the University of Mississippi campus (The Retreat at Oxford). The community opened in August 2013. On August 29, 2014, the Trust purchased its joint venture partner's 30% interest. This collegiate housing property is now wholly-owned by the Trust.
	(5) In March 2012, the financing was finalized for the agreement executed in June 2011 between the Trust and Summa West, LLC to develop, own and manage a new collegiate housing community near Arizona State University-Downtown Phoenix campus (Roosevelt Point). On April 15, 2014, the Trust purchased a portion of its joint venture partner's interest. As a result of this purchase, the Trust now holds a 95% ownership in this collegiate housing property. The Trust's 95% share of the total costs incurred is $48.1 million.
	The following represents a summary of active developments, including development costs and costs capitalized (dollars in thousands):
									Years Ended December 31,
	Name		Primary University Served		Spend-to-Date				Internal Development Costs Capitalized								Interest Costs Capitalized
									2014				2013				2014				2013
	Woodland Glen III, IV & V		University of Kentucky		$	76,121			$	214			$	138			$	1,304			$	67
	The Oaks on the Square - Phase IV		University of Connecticut		14,316				101				—				149				—
	The Retreat at Louisville (1)		University of Louisville		20,650				77				—				103				—
	Limestone Park I & II		University of Kentucky		9,615				212				—				78				—
	Retreat at Oxford - Phase II		University of Mississippi		—				—				—				—				—
	Total - owned communities				120,702				604				138				1,634				67
	Georgia Heights (2)		University of Georgia		26,871				184				23				274				95
	Total - joint venture				26,871				184				23				274				95
	Total active projects under development				$	147,573			$	788			$	161			$	1,908			$	162
	(1) In June 2014, the Trust announced an agreement with a subsidiary of Landmark Property Holdings, LLC ("Landmark") to develop, own
	and manage cottage-style collegiate housing property adjacent to The University of Louisville. The Trust is the majority owner and
	managing member of the joint venture and will manage the community once completed.
	(2) In 2013, Trust entered into an agreement to develop, own and manage a mixed-use development adjacent to the main entrance of the University of Georgia. The Trust holds a 50% interest in the joint venture and will manage the community once the development is completed. The Trust's
	investment in the property of $10.2 million is classified as other assets in the accompanying consolidated balance sheets.
	Collegiate housing properties and assets under development consist of the following as of December 31, 2014 and 2013, respectively (in thousands):
		2014				2013
	Land	$	129,111			$	126,273
	Land improvements	64,230				73,618
	Leasehold improvements	212				74
	Construction in progress	122,209				115,372
	Buildings	1,527,973				1,322,892
	Furniture, fixtures and equipment	73,023				71,624
		1,916,758				1,709,853
	Less accumulated depreciation	(210,047		)		(204,181		)
Collegiate housing properties and assets under development, net	$	1,706,711			$	1,505,672
Following is certain information related to investment in collegiate housing properties and assets under development as of December 31, 2014 (amounts in thousands):
						Initial Cost																Total Costs
Property(6)		Encumbrances				Land				Buildings				Total				Cost				Land			Buildings		Total		Accumulated		Date of
										and								Capitalized							and				Depreciation(7)		Acquisition/
										Improvements								Subsequently							Improvements						Construction
Players Club		—				$727				$7,498				$8,225				$2,400				$727			$9,898		$10,625		$3,448		1/31/05
The Commons at Knoxville (1)		$17,471				4,630				18,386				23,016				3,313				4,585			21,699		26,284		7,990		1/31/05
The Lofts		—				2,801				34,117				36,918				2,879				2,801			36,996		39,797		11,760		1/31/05
The Pointe at Penn State		—				2,151				35,094				37,245				5,155				2,151			40,249		42,400		13,602		1/31/05
The Reserve at Athens(1)		10,896				1,740				17,985				19,725				2,172				1,740			20,157		21,897		6,517		1/31/05
The Reserve at Columbia(3)		16,137				1,071				26,134				27,205				4,849				1,071			30,983		32,054		10,607		1/31/05
The Reserve at Tallahassee		—				2,743				21,176				23,919				963				2,743			22,139		24,882		9,350		1/31/05
The Reserve on Perkins (1)		13,658				913				15,795				16,708				4,092				913			19,887		20,800		7,513		1/31/05
University Towers		34,000				—				28,652				28,652				16,059				2,364			44,711		47,075		14,854		1/31/05
Campus Creek		—				2,251				21,604				23,855				3,315				2,251			24,919		27,170		8,733		2/22/05
Campus Lodge		—				2,746				44,415				47,161				3,059				2,746			47,474		50,220		15,004		6/7/05
Cape Trails		—				445				11,207				11,652				2,195				445			13,402		13,847		3,906		1/1/06
Carrollton Place		—				682				12,166				12,848				1,839				682			14,005		14,687		4,074		1/1/06
River Place (2)		8,268				837				17,746				18,583				2,941				837			20,687		21,524		6,022		1/1/06
The Reserve at Saluki Pointe (2)		13,428				1,099				32,377				33,476				1,581				1,099			33,958		35,057		6,808		8/1/08
University Apartments on Colvin		—				—				25,792				25,792				230				—			26,022		26,022		4,765		8/1/09
2400 Nueces(4)		—				—				7,436				7,436				63,118				—			70,554		70,554		3,774		8/1/10
The Oaks on the Square - Phase I and II		—				1,800				15,189				16,989				34,541				1,800			49,730		51,530		3,354		9/30/10
GrandMarc at the Corner		—				—				45,384				45,384				1,461				—			46,845		46,845		6,396		10/22/10
Campus West		—				—				6,127				6,127				21,208				—			27,335		27,335		2,773		3/1/11
East Edge		—				10,420				10,783				21,203				21,221				10,420			32,004		42,424		3,414		3/1/11
Jefferson Commons		—				1,420				4,915				6,335				240				1,420			5,155		6,575		627		3/15/11
Wertland Square		—				3,230				13,285				16,515				604				3,230			13,889		17,119		1,675		3/15/11
The Berk		—				2,687				13,718				16,405				701				2,687			14,419		17,106		1,851		5/23/11
Roosevelt Point		33,348				3,093				1,716				4,809				47,203				3,093			48,919		52,012		2,476		7/1/11
University Village Towers		—				3,434				34,424				37,858				322				3,434			34,746		38,180		3,406		9/22/11
Irish Row		—				2,637				24,679				27,316				435				2,637			25,114		27,751		2,491		11/1/11
The Lotus		—				5,245				2,192				7,437				20,363				5,245			22,555		27,800		343		11/14/11
GrandMarc at Westberry Place		—				—				53,935				53,935				1,331				—			55,266		55,266		5,168		12/8/11
3949		—				3,822				24,448				28,270				8,663				3,822			33,111		36,933		2,396		12/21/11
The Reserve on Stinson (1)		13,498				2,111				20,609				22,720				1,068				2,111			21,677		23,788		2,596		1/27/12
Central Hall I &		—				—				—				—				25,554				—			25,554		25,554		1,628		6/1/12
II(5)
The Retreat at Oxford		—				4,743				—				4,743				31,489				4,743			31,489		36,232		1,635		6/14/12
605 West		—				4,794				—				4,794				40,464				4,794			40,464		45,258		696		9/1/12
The Province		—				4,436				45,173				49,609				278				4,436			45,451		49,887		3,743		9/21/12
The District on 5th		—				2,601				63,396				65,997				222				2,601			63,618		66,219		5,478		10/4/12
Campus Village		—				2,650				18,077				20,727				847				2,650			18,924		21,574		2,129		10/19/12
Champions Court I(5)		—				—				—				—				47,368				—			47,368		47,368		449		11/1/12
Champions Court II(5)		—				—				—				—				24,329				—			24,329		24,329		239		11/1/12
Haggin Hall I(5)		—				—				—				—				23,840				—			23,840		23,840		219		11/1/12
Woodland Glen I & II(5)		—				—				—				—				45,730				—			45,730		45,730		435		11/1/12
The Province at Kent State		—				4,239				40,441				44,680				97				4,239			40,538		44,777		3,240		11/16/12
						Initial Cost																Total Costs
Property(6)		Encumbrances				Land				Buildings				Total				Cost				Land			Buildings		Total		Accumulated		Date of
										and								Capitalized							and				Depreciation(7)		Acquisition/
										Improvements								Subsequently							Improvements						Construction
The Centre at Overton Park		22,697				3,781				35,232				39,013				1,013				3,781			36,245		40,026		2,419		12/7/12
The Suites at Overton Park		24,216				4,384				33,281				37,665				442				4,384			33,723		38,107		2,632		12/7/12
Woodland Glen III, IV & V(5)		—				—				—				—				76,121				—			76,121		76,121		119		5/1/13
The Oaks on the Square - Phase III		—				1,531				—				1,531				10,951				1,531			10,951		12,482		1,856		2/13/13
The Cottages on Lindberg		—				1,800				—				1,800				34,048				1,800			34,048		35,848		2,327		8/28/13
The Retreat at State College		—				6,251				—				6,251				49,758				6,251			49,758		56,009		1,661		9/11/13
The Varsity		32,420				3,300				50,330				53,630				167				3,300			50,497		53,797		—		12/19/13
Limestone Park I & II(5)		—				—				—				—				9,615				—			9,615		9,615		—		12/31/13
Storrs II		—				3,308				—				3,308				11,008				3,308			11,008		14,316		—		6/1/14
Retreat at Louisville		8,114				4,257				—				4,257				16,393				4,257			16,393		20,650		—		7/1/14
109 Towers		—				1,779				—				1,779				42,415				1,779			42,415		44,194		461		8/12/14
District on Apache		—				8,203				81,016				89,219				47				8,203			81,063		89,266		988		9/15/14
Totals		$	248,151			$	126,792			$	1,015,930			$	1,142,722			$	771,717			$	129,111		$	1,787,647	$	1,916,758	$	210,047
(1)	The Commons at Knoxville, The Reserve on Stinson, The Reserve at Perkins and The Reserve at Athens are cross-collateralized against the $55.5 million outstanding loan discussed in Note 10.
(2)	The Reserve at Saluki Pointe and River Place are cross-collateralized against the $21.7 million outstanding loan discussed in Note 10.
(3)	The Reserve at Columbia is collateralized against the $16.1 million outstanding loan discussed in Note 10.
(4)	Pursuant to the ground lease for 2400 Nueces, the lessor has the option to purchase the Trust's leasehold estate and interest in the property at certain times during the term of the ground lease for a pre-determined amount.
(5)	Pursuant to the ground lease for the respective property, the lessor has the option to terminate the lease at certain times during the term of the ground lease for a termination fee.
(6)	All properties are of garden-style collegiate housing communities except for University Towers which is a traditional residence hall, 2400 Nueces and The Varsity, which are high-rise buildings, The Retreat at Oxford, The Cottages on Lindberg and The Retreat at State College, which are cottage-style communities, and The Oaks on the Square, which will be a mixed-use town center and main street development project located in Storrs, Connecticut.
(7)	Assets have useful lives ranging from 3 to 40 years.
The following table reconciles the historical cost of the Trust’s investment in collegiate housing properties and assets under development for the years ended December 31, 2014, 2013 and 2012 (in thousands):
	2014				2013				2012
Balance, beginning of period	$	1,709,853			$	1,395,576			$	1,026,503
Collegiate housing acquisitions or completed developments	349,841				290,881				353,966
Collegiate housing dispositions	(154,545		)		(55,880		)		(104,117		)
Impairment loss	(12,733		)		(5,001		)		—
Additions	24,792				84,404				120,058
Disposals	(450		)		(127		)		(834		)
Balance, end of period	$	1,916,758			$	1,709,853			$	1,395,576
The following table reconciles the accumulated depreciation for the years ended December 31, 2014, 2013 and 2012 (in thousands):
	2014				2013				2012
Balance, beginning of period	$	204,181			$	175,310			$	166,336
Depreciation	57,166				47,693				35,708
Disposals	(396		)		(115		)		(771		)
Collegiate housing dispositions	(50,904		)		(18,707		)		(25,963		)
Balance, end of period	$	210,047			$	204,181			$	175,310

Disposition_of_real_estate_inv1

Disposition of real estate investments and discontinued operations (Tables)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2014
Discontinued Operations and Disposal Groups [Abstract]
Income (Loss) from Discontinued Operations Net of Noncontrolling Interests and Related Realized Gains on Sales of Real Estate from Discontinued Operations Net of Noncontrolling Interests	The following table summarizes the income (loss) from discontinued operations, net of noncontrolling interests, and the related realized gains on sales of real estate from discontinued operations, net of noncontrolling interests, for the years ended December 31, 2013 and 2012 (in thousands):
		2013			2012
	Collegiate housing leasing revenue	$	5,409		$	16,229
	Collegiate housing leasing operating expenses	(3,014		)	(8,671		)
	Depreciation and amortization	(1,767		)	(4,634		)
	Loss on impairment	(5,001		)	—
	Interest income	4			—
	Noncontrolling interests	31			(25		)
	Income (loss) from discontinued operations attributable to Education Realty Trust, Inc.	$	(4,338	)	$	2,899
	Gain on sale of collegiate housing properties	$	3,913		$	5,496
	Noncontrolling interests	(28		)	(42		)
	Gain on sale of collegiate housing properties attributable to Education Realty Trust, Inc.	$	3,885		$	5,454

Collegiate_housing_properties_1

Collegiate housing properties and assets under development (Tables)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2014
Real Estate [Abstract]
Collegiate Housing Properties	During 2014, the Trust developed the following communities. The costs incurred to date represent the balance capitalized in collegiate housing properties, net as of December 31, 2014 (dollars in thousands):
												Years Ended December 31,
	Name		Primary University Served		Bed Count			Costs Incurred-to-Date				Internal Development Costs Capitalized								Interest Costs Capitalized
												2014				2013				2014				2013
	The Lotus (1)		University of Colorado		195			$	27,800			$	147			$	95			$	272			$	120
	Haggin Hall (2)		University of Kentucky		396			23,840				121				115				341				62
	Champions Court I (2)		University of Kentucky		740			47,368				156				110				833				389
	Champions Court II (2)		University of Kentucky		427			24,329				88				95				434				205
	Woodland Glen I & II (2)		University of Kentucky		818			45,730				131				104				765				350
	605 West (3)		Duke University		384			45,258				128				116				650				322
	The Oaks on the Square - Phase III (4)		University of Connecticut		116			12,482				90				22				87				51
	Total owned communities				3,076			226,807				861				657				3,382				1,499
	The Marshall (5)		University of Minnesota		994			93,976				124				62				410				23
	Total joint ventures				994			93,976				124				62				410				23
	Total				4,070			$	320,783			$	985			$	719			$	3,792			$	1,522
	(1) In November 2011, the Trust purchased a collegiate housing property near the University of Colorado, Boulder (The Lotus). The Trust developed additional housing on the existing land, which opened for the 2014/2015 lease year.
	(2) In December 2011, the Trust was selected by the University of Kentucky to develop, own and manage new collegiate housing on its campus. This project will be financed through the ONE PlanSM. Phase I opened in August 2013 and Phase II, which includes these communities, opened for the 2014-2015 lease year.
	(3) In March 2013, the Trust announced an agreement with Javelin 19 Investments, LLC ("Javelin 19") to develop, own and manage a new collegiate housing property near Duke University, 605 West. The Trust is the majority owner and managing member of the joint venture and manages the community, which opened in August 2014. For a period of five years from the date on which the property receives its initial certificate of occupancy, Javelin 19 has the right to require the Trust to purchase Javelin 19’s 10% interest in the joint venture at a price to be determined.
	(4) In 2010, LeylandAlliance LLC and the Trust entered into an agreement to develop the first two phases of Storrs Center, a mixed-use town center project, adjacent to the University of Connecticut. The Trust developed, owns and manages the collegiate housing properties in these first two phases and both phases include commercial and residential offerings. The first phase opened in August 2012 and the second phase opened in August 2013. LeylandAlliance LLC and the Trust subsequently entered into additional agreements to develop the third and fourth phases of the project. The third phase opened in August 2014 and the fourth phase is under development.
	(5) In 2012, Trust entered into an agreement to develop, own and manage a mixed-use development located two blocks from University of Minnesota. The Trust holds a 50% interest in the joint venture and manages the community, which opened in August 2014. The Trust's investment in the property of $18.4 million is classified as other assets in the accompanying consolidated balance sheets.
	During 2013, the Trust developed the following communities. The costs incurred to date represent the balance capitalized in collegiate housing properties, net as of December 31, 2013 (dollars in thousands):
												Years Ended December 31,
	Name		Primary University Served		Bed Count			Costs Incurred-to-date				Internal Development Costs Capitalized								Interest Costs Capitalized
												2013				2012				2013				2012
	2400 Nueces (1)		The University of Texas at Austin		622			$	69,969			$	295			$	132			$	1,247			$	884
	Central Hall I & II (2)		University of Kentucky		601			25,401				132				230				439				150
	The Oaks on the Square - Phase II (3)		University of Connecticut		250			29,262				91				81				582				751
	The Retreat at Oxford (4)		University of Mississippi		668			35,984				49				55				418				270
	Roosevelt Point (5)		Arizona State University - Downtown Phoenix		609			50,596				74				100				669				535
	Total owned communities				2,750			$	211,212			$	641			$	598			$	3,355			$	2,590
	(1) In July 2010, the University of Texas Board of Regents selected the Trust to be the ground tenant to develop, own and manage a new high rise collegiate housing community near the core of the University of Texas at Austin campus (2400 Nueces). The community opened in August 2013.
	(2) In December 2011, the Trust was selected by the University of Kentucky to develop, own and manage new collegiate housing on its campus. This project will be financed through the Trust’s ONE PlanSM. Phase I, which includes this community, opened in August 2013.
	(3) In September of 2010, LeylandAlliance LLC and the Trust entered into an agreement to develop the first two phases of Storrs Center, a mixed-use town center project, adjacent to the University of Connecticut. The Trust developed, owns and manages the collegiate housing properties in these first two phases and both phases include commercial and residential offerings. The first phase opened in August 2012 and the second phase opened in August 2013.
	(4) In January 2012, the Trust entered into a joint venture agreement with Landmark Properties to develop, own and manage a new cottage-
	style collegiate housing community near the University of Mississippi campus (The Retreat at Oxford). The community opened in August 2013. On August 29, 2014, the Trust purchased its joint venture partner's 30% interest. This collegiate housing property is now wholly-owned by the Trust.
	(5) In March 2012, the financing was finalized for the agreement executed in June 2011 between the Trust and Summa West, LLC to develop, own and manage a new collegiate housing community near Arizona State University-Downtown Phoenix campus (Roosevelt Point). On April 15, 2014, the Trust purchased a portion of its joint venture partner's interest. As a result of this purchase, the Trust now holds a 95% ownership in this collegiate housing property. The Trust's 95% share of the total costs incurred is $48.1 million.
	The following represents a summary of active developments, including development costs and costs capitalized (dollars in thousands):
									Years Ended December 31,
	Name		Primary University Served		Spend-to-Date				Internal Development Costs Capitalized								Interest Costs Capitalized
									2014				2013				2014				2013
	Woodland Glen III, IV & V		University of Kentucky		$	76,121			$	214			$	138			$	1,304			$	67
	The Oaks on the Square - Phase IV		University of Connecticut		14,316				101				—				149				—
	The Retreat at Louisville (1)		University of Louisville		20,650				77				—				103				—
	Limestone Park I & II		University of Kentucky		9,615				212				—				78				—
	Retreat at Oxford - Phase II		University of Mississippi		—				—				—				—				—
	Total - owned communities				120,702				604				138				1,634				67
	Georgia Heights (2)		University of Georgia		26,871				184				23				274				95
	Total - joint venture				26,871				184				23				274				95
	Total active projects under development				$	147,573			$	788			$	161			$	1,908			$	162
	(1) In June 2014, the Trust announced an agreement with a subsidiary of Landmark Property Holdings, LLC ("Landmark") to develop, own
	and manage cottage-style collegiate housing property adjacent to The University of Louisville. The Trust is the majority owner and
	managing member of the joint venture and will manage the community once completed.
	(2) In 2013, Trust entered into an agreement to develop, own and manage a mixed-use development adjacent to the main entrance of the University of Georgia. The Trust holds a 50% interest in the joint venture and will manage the community once the development is completed. The Trust's
	investment in the property of $10.2 million is classified as other assets in the accompanying consolidated balance sheets.
	Collegiate housing properties and assets under development consist of the following as of December 31, 2014 and 2013, respectively (in thousands):
		2014				2013
	Land	$	129,111			$	126,273
	Land improvements	64,230				73,618
	Leasehold improvements	212				74
	Construction in progress	122,209				115,372
	Buildings	1,527,973				1,322,892
	Furniture, fixtures and equipment	73,023				71,624
		1,916,758				1,709,853
	Less accumulated depreciation	(210,047		)		(204,181		)
Collegiate housing properties and assets under development, net	$	1,706,711			$	1,505,672
Following is certain information related to investment in collegiate housing properties and assets under development as of December 31, 2014 (amounts in thousands):
						Initial Cost																Total Costs
Property(6)		Encumbrances				Land				Buildings				Total				Cost				Land			Buildings		Total		Accumulated		Date of
										and								Capitalized							and				Depreciation(7)		Acquisition/
										Improvements								Subsequently							Improvements						Construction
Players Club		—				$727				$7,498				$8,225				$2,400				$727			$9,898		$10,625		$3,448		1/31/05
The Commons at Knoxville (1)		$17,471				4,630				18,386				23,016				3,313				4,585			21,699		26,284		7,990		1/31/05
The Lofts		—				2,801				34,117				36,918				2,879				2,801			36,996		39,797		11,760		1/31/05
The Pointe at Penn State		—				2,151				35,094				37,245				5,155				2,151			40,249		42,400		13,602		1/31/05
The Reserve at Athens(1)		10,896				1,740				17,985				19,725				2,172				1,740			20,157		21,897		6,517		1/31/05
The Reserve at Columbia(3)		16,137				1,071				26,134				27,205				4,849				1,071			30,983		32,054		10,607		1/31/05
The Reserve at Tallahassee		—				2,743				21,176				23,919				963				2,743			22,139		24,882		9,350		1/31/05
The Reserve on Perkins (1)		13,658				913				15,795				16,708				4,092				913			19,887		20,800		7,513		1/31/05
University Towers		34,000				—				28,652				28,652				16,059				2,364			44,711		47,075		14,854		1/31/05
Campus Creek		—				2,251				21,604				23,855				3,315				2,251			24,919		27,170		8,733		2/22/05
Campus Lodge		—				2,746				44,415				47,161				3,059				2,746			47,474		50,220		15,004		6/7/05
Cape Trails		—				445				11,207				11,652				2,195				445			13,402		13,847		3,906		1/1/06
Carrollton Place		—				682				12,166				12,848				1,839				682			14,005		14,687		4,074		1/1/06
River Place (2)		8,268				837				17,746				18,583				2,941				837			20,687		21,524		6,022		1/1/06
The Reserve at Saluki Pointe (2)		13,428				1,099				32,377				33,476				1,581				1,099			33,958		35,057		6,808		8/1/08
University Apartments on Colvin		—				—				25,792				25,792				230				—			26,022		26,022		4,765		8/1/09
2400 Nueces(4)		—				—				7,436				7,436				63,118				—			70,554		70,554		3,774		8/1/10
The Oaks on the Square - Phase I and II		—				1,800				15,189				16,989				34,541				1,800			49,730		51,530		3,354		9/30/10
GrandMarc at the Corner		—				—				45,384				45,384				1,461				—			46,845		46,845		6,396		10/22/10
Campus West		—				—				6,127				6,127				21,208				—			27,335		27,335		2,773		3/1/11
East Edge		—				10,420				10,783				21,203				21,221				10,420			32,004		42,424		3,414		3/1/11
Jefferson Commons		—				1,420				4,915				6,335				240				1,420			5,155		6,575		627		3/15/11
Wertland Square		—				3,230				13,285				16,515				604				3,230			13,889		17,119		1,675		3/15/11
The Berk		—				2,687				13,718				16,405				701				2,687			14,419		17,106		1,851		5/23/11
Roosevelt Point		33,348				3,093				1,716				4,809				47,203				3,093			48,919		52,012		2,476		7/1/11
University Village Towers		—				3,434				34,424				37,858				322				3,434			34,746		38,180		3,406		9/22/11
Irish Row		—				2,637				24,679				27,316				435				2,637			25,114		27,751		2,491		11/1/11
The Lotus		—				5,245				2,192				7,437				20,363				5,245			22,555		27,800		343		11/14/11
GrandMarc at Westberry Place		—				—				53,935				53,935				1,331				—			55,266		55,266		5,168		12/8/11
3949		—				3,822				24,448				28,270				8,663				3,822			33,111		36,933		2,396		12/21/11
The Reserve on Stinson (1)		13,498				2,111				20,609				22,720				1,068				2,111			21,677		23,788		2,596		1/27/12
Central Hall I &		—				—				—				—				25,554				—			25,554		25,554		1,628		6/1/12
II(5)
The Retreat at Oxford		—				4,743				—				4,743				31,489				4,743			31,489		36,232		1,635		6/14/12
605 West		—				4,794				—				4,794				40,464				4,794			40,464		45,258		696		9/1/12
The Province		—				4,436				45,173				49,609				278				4,436			45,451		49,887		3,743		9/21/12
The District on 5th		—				2,601				63,396				65,997				222				2,601			63,618		66,219		5,478		10/4/12
Campus Village		—				2,650				18,077				20,727				847				2,650			18,924		21,574		2,129		10/19/12
Champions Court I(5)		—				—				—				—				47,368				—			47,368		47,368		449		11/1/12
Champions Court II(5)		—				—				—				—				24,329				—			24,329		24,329		239		11/1/12
Haggin Hall I(5)		—				—				—				—				23,840				—			23,840		23,840		219		11/1/12
Woodland Glen I & II(5)		—				—				—				—				45,730				—			45,730		45,730		435		11/1/12
The Province at Kent State		—				4,239				40,441				44,680				97				4,239			40,538		44,777		3,240		11/16/12
						Initial Cost																Total Costs
Property(6)		Encumbrances				Land				Buildings				Total				Cost				Land			Buildings		Total		Accumulated		Date of
										and								Capitalized							and				Depreciation(7)		Acquisition/
										Improvements								Subsequently							Improvements						Construction
The Centre at Overton Park		22,697				3,781				35,232				39,013				1,013				3,781			36,245		40,026		2,419		12/7/12
The Suites at Overton Park		24,216				4,384				33,281				37,665				442				4,384			33,723		38,107		2,632		12/7/12
Woodland Glen III, IV & V(5)		—				—				—				—				76,121				—			76,121		76,121		119		5/1/13
The Oaks on the Square - Phase III		—				1,531				—				1,531				10,951				1,531			10,951		12,482		1,856		2/13/13
The Cottages on Lindberg		—				1,800				—				1,800				34,048				1,800			34,048		35,848		2,327		8/28/13
The Retreat at State College		—				6,251				—				6,251				49,758				6,251			49,758		56,009		1,661		9/11/13
The Varsity		32,420				3,300				50,330				53,630				167				3,300			50,497		53,797		—		12/19/13
Limestone Park I & II(5)		—				—				—				—				9,615				—			9,615		9,615		—		12/31/13
Storrs II		—				3,308				—				3,308				11,008				3,308			11,008		14,316		—		6/1/14
Retreat at Louisville		8,114				4,257				—				4,257				16,393				4,257			16,393		20,650		—		7/1/14
109 Towers		—				1,779				—				1,779				42,415				1,779			42,415		44,194		461		8/12/14
District on Apache		—				8,203				81,016				89,219				47				8,203			81,063		89,266		988		9/15/14
Totals		$	248,151			$	126,792			$	1,015,930			$	1,142,722			$	771,717			$	129,111		$	1,787,647	$	1,916,758	$	210,047
(1)	The Commons at Knoxville, The Reserve on Stinson, The Reserve at Perkins and The Reserve at Athens are cross-collateralized against the $55.5 million outstanding loan discussed in Note 10.
(2)	The Reserve at Saluki Pointe and River Place are cross-collateralized against the $21.7 million outstanding loan discussed in Note 10.
(3)	The Reserve at Columbia is collateralized against the $16.1 million outstanding loan discussed in Note 10.
(4)	Pursuant to the ground lease for 2400 Nueces, the lessor has the option to purchase the Trust's leasehold estate and interest in the property at certain times during the term of the ground lease for a pre-determined amount.
(5)	Pursuant to the ground lease for the respective property, the lessor has the option to terminate the lease at certain times during the term of the ground lease for a termination fee.
(6)	All properties are of garden-style collegiate housing communities except for University Towers which is a traditional residence hall, 2400 Nueces and The Varsity, which are high-rise buildings, The Retreat at Oxford, The Cottages on Lindberg and The Retreat at State College, which are cottage-style communities, and The Oaks on the Square, which will be a mixed-use town center and main street development project located in Storrs, Connecticut.
(7)	Assets have useful lives ranging from 3 to 40 years.
The following table reconciles the historical cost of the Trust’s investment in collegiate housing properties and assets under development for the years ended December 31, 2014, 2013 and 2012 (in thousands):
	2014				2013				2012
Balance, beginning of period	$	1,709,853			$	1,395,576			$	1,026,503
Collegiate housing acquisitions or completed developments	349,841				290,881				353,966
Collegiate housing dispositions	(154,545		)		(55,880		)		(104,117		)
Impairment loss	(12,733		)		(5,001		)		—
Additions	24,792				84,404				120,058
Disposals	(450		)		(127		)		(834		)
Balance, end of period	$	1,916,758			$	1,709,853			$	1,395,576
The following table reconciles the accumulated depreciation for the years ended December 31, 2014, 2013 and 2012 (in thousands):
	2014				2013				2012
Balance, beginning of period	$	204,181			$	175,310			$	166,336
Depreciation	57,166				47,693				35,708
Disposals	(396		)		(115		)		(771		)
Collegiate housing dispositions	(50,904		)		(18,707		)		(25,963		)
Balance, end of period	$	210,047			$	204,181			$	175,310

Other_assets_Tables

Other assets (Tables)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2014
Property, Plant and Equipment and Other Assets [Abstract]
Other Assets	Other assets consist of the following as of December 31, 2014 and 2013 (in thousands):
		2014		2013
	Accounts receivable related to pre-development costs	$	2,061	$	2,222
	Receivable for construction loan guarantee (see Note 2)	—		3,000
	Prepaid expenses	2,295		1,244
	Deferred tax asset	2,100		2,143
	Deferred financing costs	9,148		6,192
	Investments in unconsolidated entities	29,450		21,175
	Corporate assets, net (1)	13,745		3,249
	Other	10,950		8,227
	Total other assets	$	69,749	$	47,452

Investments_in_unconsolidated_1

Investments in unconsolidated entities (Tables)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2014
Equity Method Investments and Joint Ventures [Abstract]
Financial Position of Unconsolidated Joint Ventures Limited Liability Companies and Limited Partnerships	The following is a summary of financial information related to unconsolidated joint ventures (in thousands):
	Financial Position:	2014			2013
	As of December 31,
	Total assets	$	148,117		$	95,380
	Total liabilities	99,714			58,025
	Equity	$	48,403		$	37,355
	Investment in unconsolidated entities	$	29,450		$	21,175
Results of Operations of Unconsolidated Joint Ventures Limited Liability Companies and Limited Partnerships
	Results of Operations:	2014			2013			2012
	For the years ended December 31,
	Revenues	$	31,537		$	22,829		$	3,847
	Net loss	(1,785		)	(1,824		)	(4,013		)
	Equity in losses of unconsolidated entities	$	(710	)	$	(203	)	$	(363	)

Incentive_plans_Tables

Incentive plans (Tables)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2014
Disclosure of Compensation Related Costs, Share-based Payments [Abstract]
Stock Based Incentive Plan Activity	A summary of the stock-based incentive plan activity as of and for the years ended December 31, 2014, 2013 and 2012 is as follows:
		Restricted Stock		Weighted-Average Grant Date Fair Value Per Restricted Stock Award		RSU Awards			Weighted-Average Grant Date Fair Value Per RSU
		Awards
	Outstanding as of December 31, 2011(1)	93,945		19.89		137,000			16.77
	Granted	23,532		30.42		—		(2)	—
	Vested	(25,789	)	30.54		(46,934	)		31.92
	Surrendered	(9,323	)	30.63		(21,066	)		31.92
	Outstanding as of December 31, 2012(1)	82,365		22.89		69,000			18.03
	Granted	21,930		31.92		61,092			22.95
	Vested	(30,340	)	31.62		—			—
	Surrendered	(12,614	)	31.62		—			—
	Outstanding as of December 31, 2013(1)	61,341		$	26.88	130,092			$	20.34
	Granted	25,944		26.7		102,305			19.2
	Vested	(26,476	)	25.74		(47,785	)		26.46
	Surrendered	(13,999	)	26.85		(37,701	)		26.46
	Outstanding as of December 31, 2014(1)	46,810		$	27.94	146,911			$	20.58
	-1	Represents unvested shares of restricted stock awards as of the date indicated.
	(2) On January 1, 2012, the Trust granted a total of $1.1 million of performance vesting RSUs that are denominated in cash and will convert to common stock at the end of the performance period to executives and key employees under the 2012 LTIP. On January 1, 2015, the Trust issued 8,754 shares of common stock related to the vesting of the RSUs under the 2012 LTIP.

Debt_Tables

Debt (Tables)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2014
Debt Disclosure [Abstract]
Mortgage and Construction Notes Payable	As of December 31, 2014 and 2013, mortgage and construction notes payable consist of the following, which were secured by the underlying collegiate housing properties (amounts in thousands):
			Outstanding Balance at December 31,
	Property		2014				2013				Interest Rate at December 31, 2014			Interest Rate Type	Initial Maturity Date
	Various Communities(1)		$	21,696			$	22,053			5.67	%		Fixed	1/1/20
	Various Communities(2)		55,523				56,450				6.02	%		Fixed	1/1/19
	Various Communities(3)		16,137				16,413				5.45	%		Fixed	1/1/17
	Various Communities(4)		—				7,239				n/a
	Various Communities(5)		—				67,543				n/a
	Master Secured Credit Facility		93,356				169,698				5.84	%	(6)
	The Suites at Overton Park		24,216				24,695				4.16	%	(7)	Fixed	4/1/16	(7)
	The Centre at Overton Park		22,697				23,024				5.6	%	(7)	Fixed	1/1/17	(7)
	Pointe West		—				9,594				n/a
	GrandMarc at Westberry Place		—				35,697				n/a
	University Towers		34,000				34,000				2.29	%	(8)	Variable	7/1/16	(8)
	Mortgage Debt		80,913				127,010				3.78	%	(6)
	The Retreat at Louisville		8,114				—				2.22	%	(9)	Variable	8/1/17	(9)
	The Oaks on the Square - Phase I and II		—				31,351				n/a
	The Oaks on the Square - Phase III		—				235				n/a
	The Varsity		32,420				32,420				2.41	%	(11)	Variable	8/1/15	(11)
	The Retreat at Oxford		—				27,100				n/a
	Roosevelt Point		33,348				32,576				2.44	%	(12)	Variable	3/20/15	(12)
	Construction Loans(10)		73,882				123,682				2.4	%	(6)
	Total debt / weighted average rate		248,151				420,390				4.14	%	(6)
	Unamortized premium		1,486				2,291
	Total net of unamortized premium		249,637				422,681
	Less current portion		(68,675		)		(13,834		)
	Total long-term debt, net of current portion		$	180,962			$	408,847
	(1)	As of December 31, 2014, the following properties secured this note: The Reserve at Saluki Pointe and River Pointe. As of December 31, 2013, River Pointe, Cape Trails and The Reserve on South College secured this note under the Master Secured Credit Facility.
	(2) As of December 31, 2014, the following properties secured this note: The Reserve at Athens, The Reserve at Perkins, The Commons at Knoxville and The Reserve on Stinson. As of December 31, 2013, Irish Row, The Reserve at Perkins, The Reserve at Columbia and The Commons at Knoxville secured this note under the Master Secured Credit Facility.
	(3) As of December 31, 2014, this note was secured by The Reserve at Columbia. As of December 31, 2013, the following properties secured this note: The Commons on Kinnear and The Reserve at Perkins.
	(4) During the year ended December 31, 2014, this note was repaid. As of December 31, 2013, this note was secured by the Reserve at Athens.
	(5) During the year ended December 31, 2014, this note was repaid. As of December 31, 2013, the following properties secured this note: College Station at W. Lafayette, The Pointe at Penn State and The Reserve on Stinson.
	(6) Represents the weighted average interest rate as of December 31, 2014.
	(7) In connection with the acquisitions of The Suites at Overton Park and The Centre at Overton Park during 2012 (see Note 4), the Trust assumed fixed-rate mortgage debt. If no event of default occurs, the Trust has the option to extend the maturity dates for one year at a base rate plus a margin of 2.5%. Principal and interest are repaid monthly on these loans.
	(8) The interest rate per year applicable to the loan is, at the option of the Trust, equal to a prime rate plus a 0.50% margin or LIBOR plus a 2.10% margin and is interest only through July 1, 2015. The loan may be extended for two 12-month periods, providing the debt service coverage ratio calculated as of the preceding quarter is at least 1.30 to 1.00 and an extension fee is paid.
	(9) During 2014, the Trust entered into a construction loan related to the development of a jointly owned cottage-style community located in Louisville, Kentucky (The Retreat at Louisville). The Operating Partnership is the majority owner and will the manage the community once it is completed. The interest rate per year applicable to the loan is, at the option of the Operating Partnership, equal to a base rate plus a 1.05% margin or LIBOR plus a 2.05% margin and is interest only through July 10, 2017. On July 10, 2017, if certain conditions are met, the Operating Partnership has the option to extend the loan until July 9, 2018 and another year thereafter. During the extension periods, if applicable, principal and interest are to be repaid on a monthly basis.
	(10) Represents construction debt that is interest only through the maturity date. See the footnotes herein regarding the applicable extension periods.
	(11) In connection with the acquisition of The Varsity during 2013 (see Note 4), the Trust assumed variable-rate construction debt. The interest rate per year applicable to the loan is equal to LIBOR plus a 2.25% margin and is interest only through August 1, 2015. On August 1, 2015, if certain conditions for extension are met, we have the option to extend the loan until August 1, 2017. During the extension period, if applicable, principal and interest are to be repaid on a monthly basis.
	(12)The Trust is the majority owner and managing member of the Roosevelt Pointe joint venture and also manages the community. During 2014, the Trust acquired additional ownership interest and now owns 95% of the community (see Note 6). The interest rate per year applicable to the loan is, at the option of the Trust, equal to LIBOR plus a 2.25% margin and is interest only through the initial maturity date. If certain conditions are met and an extension fee is paid, the Trust can extend the maturity date through two additional one-year periods.
Schedule of outstanding principal balances on construction loans	During 2014, the Operating Partnership repaid outstanding principal balances on the following construction loans (amounts in thousands):
	Property		Date Prepaid		Outstanding Balance as of the Repayment Date				Interest Rate as of the Repayment Date
	The Oaks on the Square - Phase I and II		Apr-14		$	32,319			2.41	%
	The Oaks on the Square - Phase III		Sep-14		$	8,219			2.1	%
	The Retreat at Oxford		Dec-14		$	27,126			1.96	%
Carrying Amount of Mortgage and Construction Notes Payable	The following table reconciles the carrying amount of mortgage and construction notes payable for the years ended December 31, 2014 and 2013 (in thousands):
		2014				2013
	Balance, beginning of period	$	422,681			$	398,846
	Additions	17,865				122,543
	Repayments of principal	(190,103		)		(97,931		)
	Amortization of premium	(806		)		(777		)
	Balance, end of period	$	249,637			$	422,681
Scheduled Maturities of Outstanding Mortgage and Construction Indebtedness	The scheduled maturities of outstanding indebtedness (excluding the Fifth Amended Revolver) as of December 31, 2014 are as follows (in thousands):
	Year
	2015	$	68,675
	2016	59,410
	2017	47,176
	2018	1,629
	2019	116,688
	Thereafter	392,074
	Total	685,652
	Debt premium	1,486
	Outstanding as of December 31, 2014, net of debt premium	$	687,138

Noncontrolling_interests_Table

Noncontrolling interests (Tables)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2014
Noncontrolling Interest [Abstract]
Redeemable Noncontrolling Interests	The following table sets forth the activity with the redeemable noncontrolling interests for the years ended December 31, 2014 and 2013 (in thousands):
		2014			2013
	Beginning balance	$	2,359		$	1,164
	Net income	65			168
	Contributions from redeemable noncontrolling interests	—			1,127
	Adjustments to report redeemable noncontrolling interests at fair value	2,555			—
	Distributions	(548		)	(100		)
	Ending balance	$	4,431		$	2,359
	Below is a table summarizing the activity of redeemable limited partners' unit for the years ended December 31, 2014 and 2013 (in thousands):
		2014			2013
	Beginning balance	$	7,512		$	7,780
	Net income	367			81
	Distributions	(378		)	(349		)
	Conversion of redeemable partner units into cash	(77		)	—
	Adjustments to report redeemable limited partner units at fair value	2,657			—
	Ending balance	$	10,081		$	7,512

Earnings_per_shareunit_Tables

Earnings per share/unit (Tables)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2014
Earnings Per Share [Abstract]
Schedule of Earnings Per Share, Basic and Diluted	The following is a summary of the components used in calculating earnings per share for the years ended December 31, 2014, 2013 and 2012 (dollars in thousands, except share and per share data):
		2014		2013			2012
	Numerator - basic and diluted earnings per share:
	Income from continuing operations, net of noncontrolling interests	$	47,055	$	4,776		$	68
	Income (loss) from discontinued operations, net of noncontrolling interests	—		(453		)	8,353
	Net income attributable to common stock	$	47,055	$	4,323		$	8,421
	Denominator:
	Basic weighted average shares of common stock outstanding	42,933,958		38,143,999			33,747,991
	OP Units (1)	274,308		276,781			288,576
	University Towers Operating Partnership Units (1)	69,081		69,086			69,086
	Diluted weighted average shares of common stock outstanding	43,277,347		38,489,866			34,105,653
	Earnings per share - basic:
	Income from continuing operations, net of noncontrolling interests	$	1.1	$	0.12		$	—
	Income (loss) from discontinued operations, net of noncontrolling interests	$	—	$	(0.01	)	$	0.25
	Net income attributable to common stock	$	1.1	$	0.11		$	0.25
	Earnings per share - diluted:
	Income from continuing operations, net of noncontrolling interests	$	1.09	$	0.12		$	—
	Income (loss) from discontinued operations, net of noncontrolling interests	$	—	$	(0.01	)	$	0.25
	Net income attributable to common stock	$	1.09	$	0.11		$	0.25
	Distributions declared per common share	$	1.38	$	1.26		$	1.02
	The following is a summary of the components used in calculating earnings per unit for the years ended December 31, 2014, 2013 and 2012 (dollars in thousands, except unit and per unit data):
		2014		2013			2012
	Numerator - basic and diluted earnings per unit:
	Income from continuing operations, net of noncontrolling interests	$	47,422	$	4,857		$	194
	Income (loss) from discontinued operations, net of noncontrolling interests	—		(453		)	8,351
	Net income attributable to unitholders	$	47,422	$	4,404		$	8,545
	Denominator:
	Weighted average units outstanding	128,811,547		114,431,996			101,243,974
	Redeemable Operating Partnership units	822,952		830,343			865,727
	Weighted average units outstanding - basic	129,634,499		115,262,339			102,109,701
	Redeemable noncontrolling units	207,257		207,257			207,257
	Weighted average units outstanding - diluted	129,841,756		115,469,596			102,316,958
	Earnings per unit - basic:
	Income from continuing operations, net of noncontrolling interests	$	0.37	$	0.04		$	—
	Income (loss) from discontinued operations, net of noncontrolling interests	$	—	$	—		$	0.08
	Net income attributable to unitholders	$	0.37	$	0.04		$	0.08
	Earnings per unit - diluted:
	Income from continuing operations, net of noncontrolling interests	$	0.37	$	0.04		$	—
	Income (loss) from discontinued operations, net of noncontrolling interests	$	—	$	—		$	0.08
	Net income attributable to unitholders	$	0.37	$	0.04		$	0.08
	Distributions declared per unit	$	0.46	$	0.42		$	0.34

Segments_Tables

Segments (Tables)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2014
Segment Reporting [Abstract]
Segment Information	The following tables represent the Trust’s segment information for the years ended December 31, 2014, 2013 and 2012 (amounts in thousands):
			Year Ended December 31,
			2014			2013			2012
	Collegiate Housing Leasing:
		Collegiate housing leasing revenue	$	206,322		$	167,476		$	124,087
		Collegiate housing leasing operations	92,649			79,957			59,524
		Net operating income	$	113,673		$	87,519		$	64,563
		Total segment assets at end of period (1)	$	1,737,967		$	1,536,699		$	1,257,476
	Development Consulting Services:
		Third-party development consulting services	$	4,224		$	3,759		$	1,018
		General and administrative	2,354			1,161			1,157
		Net operating income (loss)	$	1,870		$	2,598		$	(139	)
		Total segment assets at end of period(2)	$	4,103		$	5,187		$	5,695
	Management Services:
		Third-party management services	$	3,959		$	3,697		$	3,446
		General and administrative	2,633			2,450			2,779
		Net operating income	$	1,326		$	1,247		$	667
		Total segment assets at end of period(2)	$	10,693		$	10,135		$	10,218
	Reconciliations:
		Segment revenue	$	214,505		$	174,932		$	128,551
		Operating expense reimbursements	8,707			10,214			9,593
		Eliminations / adjustments	2,581			(770		)	(198		)
		Total segment revenues	$	225,793		$	184,376		$	137,946
		Segment operating expenses	$	97,636		$	83,568		$	63,460
		Reimbursable operating expenses	8,707			10,214			9,593
		Eliminations / adjustments	—			—			(44		)
		Total segment operating expenses	$	106,343		$	93,782		$	73,009
		Segment net operating income	$	119,450		$	90,594		$	64,937
		Other unallocated general and administrative expenses	(14,815		)	(10,544		)	(10,284		)
		Depreciation and amortization	(58,974		)	(48,098		)	(33,240		)
		Ground lease	(8,988		)	(7,622		)	(6,395		)
		Loss on impairment of collegiate housing properties	(12,733		)	—			—
		Interest expense	(20,656		)	(17,526		)	(14,390		)
		Amortization of deferred financing costs	(2,156		)	(1,758		)	(1,215		)
		Interest income	190			447			283
		Loss on extinguishment of debt	(3,543		)	—			—
		Guarantee fee income from participating development	3,000			—			—
		Interest on loan to participating development	6,486			—			—
		Gain on insurance settlement	8,133			—			—
		Equity in losses of unconsolidated entities	(710		)	(203		)	(363		)
		Income (loss) before income taxes, discontinued operations and gain on sale of collegiate housing properties	$	14,684		$	5,290		$	(667	)
		Total segment assets, end of period (2)	$	1,752,763		$	1,552,021		$	1,273,389
		Unallocated corporate amounts:
		Cash	7,540			10,729			8,436
		Notes receivable (see Note 2)	375			18,125			21,000
		Other receivables	2,100			1,456			—
		Investments in unconsolidated entities (see Note 8)	29,355			20,602			11,796
		Deposit	—			—			3,000
		Other assets	11,900			4,293			6,017
		Deferred financing costs, net	7,604			3,339			1,049
		Total assets, end of period	$	1,811,637		$	1,610,565		$	1,324,687
	(1) The increase in segment assets related to collegiate housing leasing during the year ended December 31, 2014 is primarily related to the purchase of two additional communities and completed development of seven collegiate housing communities for the Trust’s ownership offset by the sale of seven collegiate housing communities (see Notes 4 and 5). The increase in segment assets related to collegiate housing leasing during the year ended December 31, 2013 is primarily related to the purchase of three additional communities and the continued development of fourteen collegiate housing communities for the Trust's ownership offset by the sale of two collegiate housing communities (see Notes 4 and 5).
	(2) Total segment assets include goodwill of $2,149 related to management services and $921 related to development consulting services.

Derivatives_and_hedging_activi1

Derivatives and hedging activities (Tables)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2014
Derivative Instruments and Hedging Activities Disclosure [Abstract]
Schedule of Fair Value Hedging Instruments, Statements of Financial Performance and Financial Position, Location	The following table discloses the effect of the derivative instruments on the consolidated statement of income and comprehensive income for the year ended December 31, 2014 (in thousands):
	Derivatives in Cash Flow Hedging Relationships	Amount of Loss Recognized in OCI on Derivative (Effective Portion)			Location of Loss Reclassified from Accumulated OCI into Income (Effective Portion)	Amount of Loss Reclassified from Accumulated OCI into Income (Effective Portion)
	Interest rate contracts	$	(7,991	)	Interest expense	$	3,526

Fair_Value_of_Financial_Instru1

Fair Value of Financial Instruments (Tables)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2014
Fair Value Disclosures [Abstract]
Schedule of Non Financial Assets Impaired During Period	One non-financial asset was impaired during the year ended December 31, 2014 and has remained on the accompanying consolidated balance sheet as of December 31, 2014 (in thousands):
				Estimated Fair Value
		Carrying value		Level 1		Level 2		Level 3
	Collegiate housing properties, net	$	15,471	$	—	$	15,471	$	—
Schedule of Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring Basis	The table below summarizes the carrying amounts and fair values of these financial instruments as of December 31, 2014 (in thousands):
				Estimated Fair Value
		Carrying value		Level 1		Level 2		Level 3
	Derivative financial instruments (liability position)	$	4,465	$	—	$	4,465	$	—
	Deferred compensation plan assets	520		520		—		—
Schedule of Carrying Values and Estimated Fair Values of Debt Instruments	The table below summarizes the carrying amounts and fair values of these financial instruments as of December 31, 2014 and 2013 (in thousands):
		31-Dec-14
				Estimated Fair Value
		Carrying value		Level 1		Level 2		Level 3
	Mezzanine notes receivable	$	375	$	—	$	318	$	—
	Senior unsecured notes	250,000		—		234,583		—
	Unsecured revolving credit facility	24,000		—		24,000		—
	Unsecured term loan facility	187,500		—		187,500		—
	Variable rate mortgage and construction loans	107,882		—		107,882		—
	Fixed rate mortgage and construction loans	140,270		—		154,542		—
		31-Dec-13
				Estimated Fair Value
		Carrying value		Level 1		Level 2		Level 3
	Mezzanine notes receivable	$	18,125	$	—	$	19,330	$	—
	Unsecured revolving credit facility	356,900		—		356,900		—
	Variable rate mortgage and construction loans	193,381		—		193,381		—
	Fixed rate mortgage and construction loans	227,009		—		239,162		—

Lease_commitments_and_uncondit1

Lease commitments and unconditional purchase obligations (Tables)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2014
Disclosure Lease Commitments And Unconditional Purchase Obligations Additional Information [Abstract]
Future Minimum Payments Required under Advertising Contracts and Operating Leases	Future minimum rental payments required under operating leases that have initial or remaining noncancellable lease terms as well as future minimum payments required under advertising contracts that have noncancellable terms in excess of one year as of December 31, 2014 are as follows (in thousands):
	Year Ending	Advertising		Leases
	2015	$	90	$	13,845
	2016	2		11,725
	2017	—		9,729
	2018	—		9,066
	2019	—		8,665
	Thereafter	—		575,960
	Total	$	92	$	628,990

Accrued_expenses_Tables

Accrued expenses (Tables)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2014
Payables and Accruals [Abstract]
Accrued Expenses	Accrued expenses consist of the following as of December 31, 2014 and 2013 (in thousands):
		2014		2013
	Payroll	$	3,765	$	3,176
	Real estate taxes	7,573		6,848
	Interest	2,978		2,060
	Utilities	1,691		1,203
	Ground leases (including straight-line rent)	20,010		15,012
	Construction loan guarantee	—		3,000
	Assets under development	18,558		15,034
	Deferred revenue related to insurance proceeds (See Note 19)	—		5,998
	Fair value of derivative liability	4,465		—
	Other	15,646		13,026
	Total accrued expenses	$	74,686	$	65,357

Quarterly_financial_informatio1

Quarterly financial information (unaudited) (Tables)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2014
Quarterly Financial Information Disclosure [Abstract]
Quarterly Financial Information	Quarterly financial information for the years ended December 31, 2014 and 2013 is summarized below (in thousands, except per share data):
	2014		1st Quarter			2nd Quarter			3rd Quarter			4th Quarter			Total
	Revenues		$	54,545		$	50,040		$	54,704		$	66,504		$	225,793
	Operating expenses		46,233			53,691			52,939			48,990			201,853
	Nonoperating (income) expenses		6,683			5,440			(12,393		)	8,816			8,546
	Equity in losses of unconsolidated entities		(22		)	(112		)	(236		)	(340		)	(710		)
	Income taxes expense/(benefit)		45			(357		)	910			(337		)	261
	Noncontrolling interests		398			(38		)	33			206			599
	Gain on sale of collegiate housing communities		10,902			—			8,421			13,908			33,231
	Net income (loss) attributable to Education Realty Trust, Inc.		$	12,066		$	(8,808	)	$	21,400		$	22,397		$	47,055
	Net income (loss) per share- basic		$	0.31		$	(0.23	)	$	0.46		$	0.47		$	1.1
	Net income (loss) per share- diluted		$	0.31		$	(0.23	)	$	0.45		$	0.47		$	1.09
	Net income (loss) attributable to Education Realty Operating Partnership		$	12,166		$	(8,787	)	$	21,536		$	22,507		$	47,422
	Net income (loss) per unit - basic		$	0.11		$	(0.07	)	$	0.15		$	0.16		$	0.37
	Net income (loss) per unit - diluted		$	0.1		$	(0.07	)	$	0.15		$	0.16		$	0.37
	2013		1st Quarter			2nd Quarter			3rd Quarter			4th Quarter			Total
	Revenues		$	44,671		$	41,038		$	43,469		$	55,198		$	184,376
	Operating expenses		37,558			37,344			42,718			42,426			160,046
	Nonoperating expenses		4,355			4,141			4,878			5,463			18,837
	Equity in losses of unconsolidated entities		(20		)	(21		)	(61		)	(101		)	(203		)
	Income taxes expense/(benefit)		(237		)	—			(32		)	472			203
	Noncontrolling interests		169			(143		)	(20		)	302			308
	Discontinued operations(1)		503			4,157			(326		)	(4,790		)	(456		)
	Net income (loss) attributable to Education Realty Trust, Inc.		$	3,309		$	3,832		$	(4,462	)	$	1,644		$	4,323
	Net income (loss) per share- basic and diluted		$	0.09		$	0.1		$	(0.12	)	$	0.04		$	0.11
	Net income (loss) attributable to Education Realty Operating Partnership		$	3,346		$	3,873		$	(4,482	)	$	1,667		$	4,404
	Net income (loss) per unit - basic and diluted		$	0.03		$	0.03		$	(0.04	)	$	0.01		$	0.04
	-1	All quarterly information presented above for 2013 reflects the classification of the properties sold during 2013 in discontinued operations (see Note 5). Discontinued operations for the 4th quarter of 2013 includes an impairment loss of $5,001.

Organization_and_description_o1

Organization and description of business - Additional Information (Details) (USD $)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2013	Jul. 12, 2004
Organization, Consolidation and Presentation of Financial Statements [Abstract]
Common stock, shares authorized (shares)	200,000,000	200,000,000	200,000,000
Preferred stock, shares authorized (shares)	50,000,000	50,000,000	50,000,000
Common stock, par value per share (usd per share)	$0.01	$0.01	$0.01
Preferred stock, par value per share (usd per share)	$0.01	$0.01	$0.01
General partner ownership interest (less than)	1.00%

Summary_of_significant_account3

Summary of significant accounting policies - Additional Information (Details) (USD $)	0 Months Ended			12 Months Ended			0 Months Ended	12 Months Ended
	Jun. 24, 2014	Aug. 26, 2013	Aug. 14, 2012	Dec. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2013	Dec. 31, 2012	Jul. 14, 2010	Dec. 31, 2010	Dec. 31, 2008	Jul. 12, 2004	Oct. 31, 2014	22-May-12
							bed					agreement
							story
Significant Accounting Policies [Line Items]
Cash on deposit uninsured by the FDIC				$11,000,000
Payments of Ordinary Dividends, Common Stock				59,149,000	48,010,000	33,959,000
Distributions per common share (usd per share)				$1.38	$1.26	$1.02
Dividends and distributions paid to noncontrolling interests				-1,011,000	-449,000	-532,000
Promissory note receivable		500,000
Notes receivable, interest rate (percent)		10.00%
Due from related party				400,000	100,000
Guarantee fee revenue				17,301,000	23,498,000
Notes receivable				375,000	18,125,000
Loss on impairment of collegiate housing properties				12,733,000	0	0
Deferred financing cost				6,400,000	4,600,000	900,000
Amortization of deferred financing cost				2,156,000	1,758,000	1,215,000
Deferred financing cost, accumulated amortization				8,300,000	7,000,000
Common stock, shares authorized (shares)				200,000,000	200,000,000					200,000,000
Common stock, shares issued (shares)				47,999,427	38,246,718
Proceeds from issuance of common stock	239,400,000		180,900,000	289,584,000	16,890,000	220,441,000
Common stock offering (shares)	8,200,000		800,000
Mortgage and construction loans, unamortized debt premiums				1,486,000	2,300,000
Taxable income that needs to be distributed to stockholders in order to avoid federal, state and local income taxes (percent)				90.00%
Goodwill accumulated impairment loss									400,000
Goodwill impairment				0
Goodwill carrying value				3,100,000	3,100,000
Carrying value of other intangible assets				400,000	800,000
Deferred revenue related to college housing leasing				17,100,000	15,000,000
Deferred revenue				17,301,000	23,498,000
Advertising expense				4,700,000	4,600,000	3,200,000
Revenue recognized related to cost savings agreements				1,200,000	800,000	200,000
Deferred development fees				200,000	2,800,000
Project Development Services
Significant Accounting Policies [Line Items]
Revenue that would have been recognized had construction loan and second mortgage had been repaid				2,600,000
Cost Savings
Significant Accounting Policies [Line Items]
Revenue that would have been recognized had construction loan and second mortgage had been repaid				800,000
Guarantee Fee Revenue
Significant Accounting Policies [Line Items]
Revenue that would have been recognized had construction loan and second mortgage had been repaid				3,000,000
Interest Income
Significant Accounting Policies [Line Items]
Revenue that would have been recognized had construction loan and second mortgage had been repaid				6,500,000
Minimum
Significant Accounting Policies [Line Items]
Third-party development services revenue fee as a percentage total estimated costs (percent)				3.00%
Maximum
Significant Accounting Policies [Line Items]
Maturity period of highly-liquid investments classified as cash equivalents				3 months
Third-party development services revenue fee as a percentage total estimated costs (percent)				5.00%
Equity Distribution Agreement 2012
Significant Accounting Policies [Line Items]
Number of equity distribution agreements												2
Common stock, shares authorized (shares)												50,000,000
Common stock, shares issued (shares)					500,000						1,000,000
Proceeds from issuance of common stock				31,500,000	17,800,000
Equity Distribution Agreement 2014
Significant Accounting Policies [Line Items]
Common stock, shares issued (shares)				500,000
Proceeds from issuance of common stock				18,100,000
Common Stock, Shares Offered, Value											150,000,000
Underwriters Overallotment Option
Significant Accounting Policies [Line Items]
Common stock offering (shares)			5,800,000
Collegiate Housing Properties or Leaseholds
Significant Accounting Policies [Line Items]
Number of properties classified as part of discontinued operation (properties)					5	5
Number of properties sold (properties)					5
Discontinued Operations
Significant Accounting Policies [Line Items]
Loss On Asset Disposals And Impairments					5,001,000	0
Buildings and Improvements | Minimum
Significant Accounting Policies [Line Items]
Property, plant and equipment, useful life				15 years
Buildings and Improvements | Maximum
Significant Accounting Policies [Line Items]
Property, plant and equipment, useful life				40 years
Land Improvements
Significant Accounting Policies [Line Items]
Property, plant and equipment, useful life				15 years
Furniture, Fixtures and Equipment | Minimum
Significant Accounting Policies [Line Items]
Property, plant and equipment, useful life				3 years
Furniture, Fixtures and Equipment | Maximum
Significant Accounting Policies [Line Items]
Property, plant and equipment, useful life				7 years
Non Tax Deductible
Significant Accounting Policies [Line Items]
Distributions per common share (usd per share)				$0.30
Tax Deductible
Significant Accounting Policies [Line Items]
Distributions per common share (usd per share)				$1.08
Management Services
Significant Accounting Policies [Line Items]
Goodwill carrying value				2,149,000	2,149,000	2,149,000
Development Consulting Services
Significant Accounting Policies [Line Items]
Goodwill carrying value				921,000	921,000	921,000
Participating Project to Develop Collegiate Housing Complex at Science and Technology Park at Johns Hopkins Medical Institute
Significant Accounting Policies [Line Items]
Project cost							60,700,000
Number of story (stories)							20
Number of beds (beds)							572
Guarantee fee revenue					5,600,000		3,000,000
Management contract period								10 years
Deferred revenue					5,600,000		3,000,000
Deferred development fees				2,600,000
Participating Project to Develop Collegiate Housing Complex at Science and Technology Park at Johns Hopkins Medical Institute | Second Mortgage
Significant Accounting Policies [Line Items]
Second mortgage Investment							18,000,000
Notes receivable					18,000,000
Education Realty Operating Partnership L.P.
Significant Accounting Policies [Line Items]
Distributions per common share (usd per share)				$0.46	$0.42	$0.34
Guarantee fee revenue				17,301,000	23,498,000
Notes receivable				375,000	18,125,000
Loss on impairment of collegiate housing properties				12,733,000	0	0
Amortization of deferred financing cost				2,156,000	1,758,000	1,215,000
Proceeds from issuance of common stock				300,259,000	17,144,000	228,590,000
Deferred revenue				$17,301,000	$23,498,000

Summary_of_significant_account4

Summary of significant accounting policies - Reconciliation of Allowance for Doubtful Accounts (Details) (USD $)	12 Months Ended
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified	Dec. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2013	Dec. 31, 2012
Allowance for Doubtful Accounts Receivable [Roll Forward]
Balance, beginning of period	$96	$142	$133
Provision for uncollectible accounts	1,263	1,379	1,128
Deductions	-1,301	-1,425	-1,119
Balance, end of period	$58	$96	$142

Income_taxes_Significant_Compo

Income taxes - Significant Components of Deferred Tax Assets and Liabilities (Details) (USD $)	Dec. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2013
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified
Deferred tax assets:
Deferred revenue	$0	$1,022
Accrued expenses	381	252
Straight line rent	343	366
Restricted stock amortization	1,076	85
Net operating loss carryforwards	1,346	418
Total deferred tax assets	3,146	2,143
Deferred tax liabilities:
Depreciation and amortization	-526	-634
Total deferred tax liabilities:	-526	-634
Net deferred tax assets	$2,620	$1,509

Income_taxes_Significant_Compo1

Income taxes - Significant Components of Income Tax Provisions Benefits (Details) (USD $)	3 Months Ended								12 Months Ended
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified	Dec. 31, 2014	Sep. 30, 2014	Jun. 30, 2014	Mar. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2013	Sep. 30, 2013	Jun. 30, 2013	Mar. 31, 2013	Dec. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2013	Dec. 31, 2012
Deferred:
Federal									$108	($296)	$895
State									57	36	148
Deferred expense (benefit)									165	-260	1,043
Current:
Federal									-52	312	-1,326
State									148	151	-601
Current (benefit) expense									96	463	-1,927
Tax provision (benefit)	($337)	$910	($357)	$45	$472	($32)	$0	($237)	$261	$203	($884)

Income_taxes_Additional_Inform

Income taxes - Additional Information (Details) (USD $)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2013	Dec. 31, 2012
Income Taxes [Line Items]
TRS earnings or (loss) subject to tax	$15,394,000	$5,493,000	($304,000)
Unrecognized tax benefits	0	0	0
Unrecognized tax benefits, interest or penalties	0	0	0
Taxable REIT Subsidiary
Income Taxes [Line Items]
TRS earnings or (loss) subject to tax	($900,000)	($200,000)	($1,900,000)

Income_taxes_Reconciliation_of

Income taxes - Reconciliation of Income Tax Attributable to Income before Noncontrolling Interest Computed at United States Statutory Rate to Income Tax Provision (Details) (USD $)	3 Months Ended								12 Months Ended
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified	Dec. 31, 2014	Sep. 30, 2014	Jun. 30, 2014	Mar. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2013	Sep. 30, 2013	Jun. 30, 2013	Mar. 31, 2013	Dec. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2013	Dec. 31, 2012
Income Tax Disclosure [Abstract]
Tax provision at U.S. statutory rates on TRS income subject to tax									$71	$15	($566)
State income tax, net of federal benefit									34	126	-312
Other									156	62	-6
Tax provision (benefit)	($337)	$910	($357)	$45	$472	($32)	$0	($237)	$261	$203	($884)

Acquisition_and_development_of2

Acquisition and development of real estate investments - Additional Information (Details) (USD $)	12 Months Ended			1 Months Ended	0 Months Ended	1 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2013	Dec. 31, 2012	Aug. 31, 2014	Apr. 15, 2014	Sep. 30, 2013	Oct. 31, 2012	Aug. 29, 2014
Business Acquisition [Line Items]
Acquisition costs	$900,000	$400,000	$1,100,000
Fair values of assets acquired	133,300,000	146,100,000	279,300,000
Total net assets acquired	131,392,000	112,453,000	231,483,000
Liabilities assumed	2,087,000	1,200,000	700,000
Payments made for deposit on acquisition		3,000,000
Accounts payable	2,183,000	2,289,000
Accrued expenses	74,686,000	65,357,000
The Retreat at Oxford
Business Acquisition [Line Items]
Ownership percentage purchase	30.00%
Noncontrolling interest, ownership percentage by Parent								30.00%
605 West
Business Acquisition [Line Items]
Joint venture purchase option period				5 years
Joint venture purchase option percentage				10.00%
The Marshall
Business Acquisition [Line Items]
Payments to noncontrolling interest			18,400,000
Noncontrolling interest, ownership percentage by Parent			50.00%
Roosevelt Point
Business Acquisition [Line Items]
Payments to noncontrolling interest					48,100,000
Noncontrolling interest, ownership percentage by Parent					95.00%
Assets under development
Business Acquisition [Line Items]
Accounts payable	34,000	400,000
Accrued expenses	18,500,000	15,000,000
Collegiate Housing Properties Or Leaseholds East Edge Apartments
Business Acquisition [Line Items]
Ownership percentage purchase			10.00%			10.00%
Payments to noncontrolling interest						6,900,000
Noncontrolling interest, ownership percentage by Parent	100.00%
Business Combination Acquisition Related Costs
Business Acquisition [Line Items]
Fair values of liabilities assumed		32,400,000
Collegiate housing properties
Business Acquisition [Line Items]
Fair values of assets acquired	132,600,000	145,146,000	280,413,000
LTD assumed		$32,400,000	$48,500,000
Campus Village
Business Acquisition [Line Items]
Lease term							32 years
Ground lease, optional extension term							20 years

Acquisition_and_development_of3

Acquisition and development of real estate investments - Collegiate Housing Community Acquisitions (Details) (USD $)	12 Months Ended
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified	Dec. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2013	Dec. 31, 2012
	bed	unit	unit
	unit	bed	bed
109 Tower
Business Acquisition [Line Items]
Primary University Served	Florida International University Miami, Florida
Acquisition Date	2014-08
Number of beds (beds)	542
Number of Units (units)	149
Contract Price	$43,500
District on Apache
Business Acquisition [Line Items]
Primary University Served	Arizona State University Tempe, Arizona
Acquisition Date	2014-09
Number of beds (beds)	900
Number of Units (units)	279
Contract Price	89,800
The Cottages on Lindberg
Business Acquisition [Line Items]
Primary University Served		Purdue University West Lafayette, Indiana
Acquisition Date		2013-08
Number of beds (beds)		745
Number of Units (units)		193
Contract Price		36,000
The Retreat at State College
Business Acquisition [Line Items]
Primary University Served		Pennsylvania State University State College, Pennsylvania
Acquisition Date		2013-09
Number of beds (beds)		587
Number of Units (units)		138
Contract Price		56,189
The Varsity
Business Acquisition [Line Items]
Primary University Served		University of Michigan Ann Arbor, Michigan
Acquisition Date		2013-12
Number of beds (beds)		415
Number of Units (units)		181
Contract Price		53,950
The Reserve on Stinson
Business Acquisition [Line Items]
Primary University Served			University of Oklahoma Norman, Oklahoma
Acquisition Date			2012-01
Number of beds (beds)			612
Number of Units (units)			204
Contract Price			22,954
The Province
Business Acquisition [Line Items]
Primary University Served			East Carolina University Greenville, North Carolina
Acquisition Date			2012-09
Number of beds (beds)			728
Number of Units (units)			235
Contract Price			50,000
The District on 5th
Business Acquisition [Line Items]
Primary University Served			University of Arizona Tucson, Arizona
Acquisition Date			2012-10
Number of beds (beds)			764
Number of Units (units)			208
Contract Price			66,442
Campus Village
Business Acquisition [Line Items]
Primary University Served			Michigan State University East Lansing, Michigan
Acquisition Date			2012-10
Number of beds (beds)			355
Number of Units (units)			106
Contract Price			20,900
The Province
Business Acquisition [Line Items]
Primary University Served			Kent State University Kent, Ohio
Acquisition Date			2012-11
Number of beds (beds)			596
Number of Units (units)			246
Contract Price			45,000
The Suites at Overton Park
Business Acquisition [Line Items]
Primary University Served			Texas Tech University Lubbock, Texas
Acquisition Date			2012-12
Number of beds (beds)			465
Number of Units (units)			298
Contract Price			37,000
The Centre at Overton Park
Business Acquisition [Line Items]
Primary University Served			Texas Tech University Lubbock, Texas
Acquisition Date			2012-12
Number of beds (beds)			400
Number of Units (units)			278
Contract Price			$37,000

Acquisition_and_development_of4

Acquisition and development of real estate investments - Fair Values of Assets Acquired and Liabilities Assumed (Details) (USD $)	Dec. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2013	Dec. 31, 2012
Business Acquisition [Line Items]
Collegiate housing properties	$133,300,000	$146,100,000	$279,300,000
Business Combination, Recognized Identifiable Assets Acquired and Liabilities Assumed, Liabilities	-2,087,000	-1,200,000	-700,000
Total net assets acquired	131,392,000	112,453,000	231,483,000
Business Combination, Recognized Identifiable Assets Acquired and Liabilities Assumed, Net Of Working Capital And Other Assets	131,200,000
Business Combination, Separately Recognized Transactions, Assets Recognized	200,000
Collegiate housing properties
Business Acquisition [Line Items]
Collegiate housing properties	132,600,000	145,146,000	280,413,000
In-place leases	643,000
Other assets
Business Acquisition [Line Items]
Other assets	236,000	1,270,000	6,778,000
Current liabilities
Business Acquisition [Line Items]
Current liabilities		-1,543,000	-4,083,000
Mortgage debt
Business Acquisition [Line Items]
Mortgage debt		-32,420,000	-51,625,000
109 Tower
Business Acquisition [Line Items]
Total net assets acquired	42,838,000
109 Tower | Collegiate housing properties
Business Acquisition [Line Items]
Collegiate housing properties	43,384,000
In-place leases	0
109 Tower | Other assets
Business Acquisition [Line Items]
Other assets	200,000
109 Tower | Current liabilities
Business Acquisition [Line Items]
Current liabilities	-746,000
District on Apache
Business Acquisition [Line Items]
Total net assets acquired	88,554,000
District on Apache | Collegiate housing properties
Business Acquisition [Line Items]
Collegiate housing properties	89,216,000
In-place leases	643,000
District on Apache | Other assets
Business Acquisition [Line Items]
Other assets	36,000
District on Apache | Current liabilities
Business Acquisition [Line Items]
Current liabilities	-1,341,000
The Cottages on Lindberg
Business Acquisition [Line Items]
Total net assets acquired		35,362,000
The Cottages on Lindberg | Collegiate housing properties
Business Acquisition [Line Items]
Collegiate housing properties		35,704,000
The Cottages on Lindberg | Other assets
Business Acquisition [Line Items]
Other assets		347,000
The Cottages on Lindberg | Current liabilities
Business Acquisition [Line Items]
Current liabilities		-689,000
The Cottages on Lindberg | Mortgage debt
Business Acquisition [Line Items]
Mortgage debt		0
The Retreat at State College
Business Acquisition [Line Items]
Total net assets acquired		55,849,000
The Retreat at State College | Collegiate housing properties
Business Acquisition [Line Items]
Collegiate housing properties		55,812,000
The Retreat at State College | Other assets
Business Acquisition [Line Items]
Other assets		442,000
The Retreat at State College | Current liabilities
Business Acquisition [Line Items]
Current liabilities		-405,000
The Retreat at State College | Mortgage debt
Business Acquisition [Line Items]
Mortgage debt		0
The Varsity
Business Acquisition [Line Items]
Total net assets acquired		21,242,000
The Varsity | Collegiate housing properties
Business Acquisition [Line Items]
Collegiate housing properties		53,630,000
The Varsity | Other assets
Business Acquisition [Line Items]
Other assets		481,000
The Varsity | Current liabilities
Business Acquisition [Line Items]
Current liabilities		-449,000
The Varsity | Mortgage debt
Business Acquisition [Line Items]
Mortgage debt		-32,420,000
The Province
Business Acquisition [Line Items]
Total net assets acquired			49,580,000
The Province | Collegiate housing properties
Business Acquisition [Line Items]
Collegiate housing properties			49,609,000
The Province | Other assets
Business Acquisition [Line Items]
Other assets			502,000
The Province | Current liabilities
Business Acquisition [Line Items]
Current liabilities			-531,000
The Province | Mortgage debt
Business Acquisition [Line Items]
Mortgage debt			0
The District on 5th
Business Acquisition [Line Items]
Total net assets acquired			65,927,000
The District on 5th | Collegiate housing properties
Business Acquisition [Line Items]
Collegiate housing properties			65,997,000
The District on 5th | Other assets
Business Acquisition [Line Items]
Other assets			475,000
The District on 5th | Current liabilities
Business Acquisition [Line Items]
Current liabilities			-545,000
The District on 5th | Mortgage debt
Business Acquisition [Line Items]
Mortgage debt			0
The Suites at Overton Park
Business Acquisition [Line Items]
Total net assets acquired			28,232,000
The Suites at Overton Park | Collegiate housing properties
Business Acquisition [Line Items]
Collegiate housing properties			76,678,000
The Suites at Overton Park | Other assets
Business Acquisition [Line Items]
Other assets			4,830,000
The Suites at Overton Park | Current liabilities
Business Acquisition [Line Items]
Current liabilities			-1,651,000
The Suites at Overton Park | Mortgage debt
Business Acquisition [Line Items]
Mortgage debt			-51,625,000
Other
Business Acquisition [Line Items]
Total net assets acquired			87,744,000
Other | Collegiate housing properties
Business Acquisition [Line Items]
Collegiate housing properties			88,129,000
Other | Other assets
Business Acquisition [Line Items]
Other assets			971,000
Other | Current liabilities
Business Acquisition [Line Items]
Current liabilities			-1,356,000
Other | Mortgage debt
Business Acquisition [Line Items]
Mortgage debt			$0

Acquisition_and_development_of5

Acquisition and development of real estate investments - Pro Forma Revenue and Net Loss of Combined Entity (Details) (USD $)	3 Months Ended								12 Months Ended
In Thousands, except Per Share data, unless otherwise specified	Dec. 31, 2014	Sep. 30, 2014	Jun. 30, 2014	Mar. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2013	Sep. 30, 2013	Jun. 30, 2013	Mar. 31, 2013	Dec. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2013	Dec. 31, 2012	Dec. 31, 2011
Business Acquisition, Pro Forma Information, Nonrecurring Adjustment [Line Items]
Revenues	$66,504	$54,704	$50,040	$54,545	$55,198	$43,469	$41,038	$44,671	$225,793	$184,376	$137,946
Net Income	22,397	21,400	-8,808	12,066	1,644	-4,462	3,832	3,309	47,055	4,323	8,421
Education Realty Operating Partnership L.P.
Business Acquisition, Pro Forma Information, Nonrecurring Adjustment [Line Items]
Revenues									225,793	184,376	137,946
Net Income	22,507	21,536	-8,787	12,166	1,667	-4,482	3,873	3,346	47,422	4,404	8,545
2014 Acquisitions
Business Acquisition, Pro Forma Information, Nonrecurring Adjustment [Line Items]
Revenues									4,683
Net Income									1,403
Total Revenue									231,961	187,884
Net income									50,794	5,714
Net income attributable to common shareholders - basic (usd per share)									$1.18	$0.15
Net income attributable to common shareholders - diluted (usd per share)									$1.17	$0.15
2014 Acquisitions | Education Realty Operating Partnership L.P.
Business Acquisition, Pro Forma Information, Nonrecurring Adjustment [Line Items]
Net income									51,184	5,805
Net income attributable to common shareholders - basic (usd per share)									$0.39	$0.05
Net income attributable to common shareholders - diluted (usd per share)									$0.39	$0.05
2013 Acquisitions
Business Acquisition, Pro Forma Information, Nonrecurring Adjustment [Line Items]
Revenues										3,221
Net Income										911
Total Revenue										187,961	139,714
Net income										4,841	9,229
Net income attributable to common shareholders - basic (usd per share)										$0.13	$0.27
Net income attributable to common shareholders - diluted (usd per share)										$0.13	$0.27
2013 Acquisitions | Education Realty Operating Partnership L.P.
Business Acquisition, Pro Forma Information, Nonrecurring Adjustment [Line Items]
Net income										4,926	9,363
Net income attributable to common shareholders - basic (usd per share)										$0.04	$0.09
Net income attributable to common shareholders - diluted (usd per share)										$0.04	$0.09
2012 Acquisitions
Business Acquisition, Pro Forma Information, Nonrecurring Adjustment [Line Items]
Revenues											7,830
Net Income											1,549
Total Revenue											150,370	119,456
Net income											10,568	-12,490
Net income attributable to common shareholders - basic (usd per share)											$0.31	($0.50)
Net income attributable to common shareholders - diluted (usd per share)											$0.31	($0.50)
2012 Acquisitions | Education Realty Operating Partnership L.P.
Business Acquisition, Pro Forma Information, Nonrecurring Adjustment [Line Items]
Net income											$10,709	($12,452)
Net income attributable to common shareholders - basic (usd per share)											$0.10	($0.16)
Net income attributable to common shareholders - diluted (usd per share)											$0.10	($0.16)

Acquisition_and_development_of6

Acquisition and development of real estate investments - Development of collegiate housing properties (Details) (USD $)	12 Months Ended			0 Months Ended
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified	Dec. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2013	Dec. 31, 2012	Apr. 15, 2014
Real Estate Properties [Line Items]
Costs Incurred-to-date	$1,916,758	$1,709,853
Total - 2015 Deliveries
Real Estate Properties [Line Items]
Costs Incurred-to-date	147,573
Internal Development Costs Capitalized	788	161
Interest Costs Capitalized	1,908	162
Owned Properties | Total - 2015 Deliveries
Real Estate Properties [Line Items]
Costs Incurred-to-date	120,702
Internal Development Costs Capitalized	604	138
Interest Costs Capitalized	1,634	67
Joint Venture Properties
Real Estate Properties [Line Items]
Internal Development Costs Capitalized	124	62
Interest Costs Capitalized	410	23
Joint Venture Properties | Total - 2015 Deliveries
Real Estate Properties [Line Items]
Costs Incurred-to-date	26,871
Internal Development Costs Capitalized	184	23
Interest Costs Capitalized	274	95
The Lotus | Owned Properties
Real Estate Properties [Line Items]
Bed Count (beds)	195
Costs Incurred-to-date	27,800
Internal Development Costs Capitalized	147	95
Interest Costs Capitalized	272	120
Haggin Hall | Owned Properties
Real Estate Properties [Line Items]
Bed Count (beds)	396
Costs Incurred-to-date	23,840
Internal Development Costs Capitalized	121	115
Interest Costs Capitalized	341	62
Champions Court I | Owned Properties
Real Estate Properties [Line Items]
Bed Count (beds)	740
Costs Incurred-to-date	47,368
Internal Development Costs Capitalized	156	110
Interest Costs Capitalized	833	389
Champions Court II | Owned Properties
Real Estate Properties [Line Items]
Bed Count (beds)	427
Costs Incurred-to-date	24,329
Internal Development Costs Capitalized	88	95
Interest Costs Capitalized	434	205
Woodland Glen I & II | Owned Properties
Real Estate Properties [Line Items]
Bed Count (beds)	818
Costs Incurred-to-date	45,730
Internal Development Costs Capitalized	131	104
Interest Costs Capitalized	765	350
605 West | Owned Properties
Real Estate Properties [Line Items]
Bed Count (beds)	384
Costs Incurred-to-date	45,258
Internal Development Costs Capitalized	128	116
Interest Costs Capitalized	650	322
The Oaks on the Square - Phase III | Owned Properties
Real Estate Properties [Line Items]
Bed Count (beds)	116
Costs Incurred-to-date	12,482
Internal Development Costs Capitalized	90	22
Interest Costs Capitalized	87	51
Developments In 2014
Real Estate Properties [Line Items]
Bed Count (beds)	4,070
Costs Incurred-to-date	320,783
Internal Development Costs Capitalized	985	719
Interest Costs Capitalized	3,792	1,522
Developments In 2014 | Owned Properties
Real Estate Properties [Line Items]
Bed Count (beds)	3,076
Costs Incurred-to-date	226,807
Internal Development Costs Capitalized	861	657
Interest Costs Capitalized	3,382	1,499
Developments In 2014 | Joint Venture Properties
Real Estate Properties [Line Items]
Bed Count (beds)	994
Costs Incurred-to-date	93,976
Internal Development Costs Capitalized	124	62
Interest Costs Capitalized	410	23
The Marshall
Real Estate Properties [Line Items]
Payments to noncontrolling interest			18,400
The Marshall | Joint Venture Properties
Real Estate Properties [Line Items]
Bed Count (beds)	994
Costs Incurred-to-date	93,976
2400 Nueces | Owned Properties
Real Estate Properties [Line Items]
Bed Count (beds)		622
Costs Incurred-to-date		69,969
Internal Development Costs Capitalized		295	132
Interest Costs Capitalized		1,247	884
Central Hall I & II | Owned Properties
Real Estate Properties [Line Items]
Bed Count (beds)		601
Costs Incurred-to-date		25,401
Internal Development Costs Capitalized		132	230
Interest Costs Capitalized		439	150
The Oaks On The Square - Phase Two | Owned Properties
Real Estate Properties [Line Items]
Bed Count (beds)		250
Costs Incurred-to-date		29,262
Internal Development Costs Capitalized		91	81
Interest Costs Capitalized		582	751
The Retreat at Oxford | Owned Properties
Real Estate Properties [Line Items]
Bed Count (beds)		668
Costs Incurred-to-date		35,984
Internal Development Costs Capitalized		49	55
Interest Costs Capitalized		418	270
Roosevelt Point
Real Estate Properties [Line Items]
Payments to noncontrolling interest				48,100
Roosevelt Point | Owned Properties
Real Estate Properties [Line Items]
Bed Count (beds)		609
Costs Incurred-to-date		50,596
Internal Development Costs Capitalized		74	100
Interest Costs Capitalized		669	535
Woodland Glen III, IV & V | Owned Properties | Total - 2015 Deliveries
Real Estate Properties [Line Items]
Costs Incurred-to-date	76,121
Internal Development Costs Capitalized	214	138
Interest Costs Capitalized	1,304	67
The Oaks On The Square - Phase IV | Owned Properties | Total - 2015 Deliveries
Real Estate Properties [Line Items]
Costs Incurred-to-date	14,316
Internal Development Costs Capitalized	101	0
Interest Costs Capitalized	149	0
Retreat at Louisville | Owned Properties | Total - 2015 Deliveries
Real Estate Properties [Line Items]
Costs Incurred-to-date	20,650
Internal Development Costs Capitalized	77	0
Interest Costs Capitalized	103	0
Limestone Park I & II(5) | Total - 2016 Deliveries
Real Estate Properties [Line Items]
Costs Incurred-to-date	9,615
Internal Development Costs Capitalized	212	0
Interest Costs Capitalized	78	0
The Retreat at Oxford - Phase II | Total - 2016 Deliveries
Real Estate Properties [Line Items]
Costs Incurred-to-date	0
Internal Development Costs Capitalized	0	0
Interest Costs Capitalized	0	0
Developments In 2013 | Owned Properties
Real Estate Properties [Line Items]
Bed Count (beds)		2,750
Costs Incurred-to-date		211,212
Internal Development Costs Capitalized		641	598
Interest Costs Capitalized		3,355	2,590
Georgia Heights
Real Estate Properties [Line Items]
Payments to noncontrolling interest		10,200
Georgia Heights | Joint Venture Properties | Total - 2015 Deliveries
Real Estate Properties [Line Items]
Costs Incurred-to-date	26,871
Internal Development Costs Capitalized	184	23
Interest Costs Capitalized	$274	$95

Disposition_of_real_estate_inv2

Disposition of real estate investments and discontinued operations - Additional Information (Details) (USD $)	3 Months Ended				12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2014	Sep. 30, 2014	Jun. 30, 2014	Mar. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2013	Dec. 31, 2012
Income Statement, Balance Sheet and Additional Disclosures by Disposal Groups, Including Discontinued Operations [Line Items]
Disposition of real estate investments, sales price					$138,500,000	$41,700,000	$69,500,000
Proceeds from Sale of Real Estate					116,300,000	40,200,000	67,300,000
Repayment Of Mortgage Secured Debt	16,700,000				16,700,000
Gain (Loss) on Sale of Properties	13,908,000	8,421,000	0	10,902,000	33,231,000	0	0
Discontinued Operation, Gain (Loss) on Disposal of Discontinued Operation, Net of Tax						$3,900,000
Property Dispositions Other Than Discontinued Operations
Income Statement, Balance Sheet and Additional Disclosures by Disposal Groups, Including Discontinued Operations [Line Items]
Number of real estate investments held-for-sale (properties)	7				7

Disposition_of_real_estate_inv3

Disposition of real estate investments and discontinued operations - Income (Loss) from Discontinued Operations Net of Noncontrolling Interests and Related Realized Gains on Sales of Real Estate from Discontinued Operations Net of Noncontrolling Interests (Details) (USD $)	12 Months Ended
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified	Dec. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2013	Dec. 31, 2012
Income Statement, Balance Sheet and Additional Disclosures by Disposal Groups, Including Discontinued Operations [Line Items]
Collegiate housing leasing revenue	$206,322	$167,476	$124,087
Collegiate housing leasing operating expenses	-92,649	-79,957	-59,524
Depreciation and amortization	-58,974	-48,098	-33,240
Gain on sale of collegiate housing properties		3,900
Discontinued Operations
Income Statement, Balance Sheet and Additional Disclosures by Disposal Groups, Including Discontinued Operations [Line Items]
Collegiate housing leasing revenue		5,409	16,229
Collegiate housing leasing operating expenses		-3,014	-8,671
Depreciation and amortization		-1,767	-4,634
Loss on impairment		-5,001	0
Interest income		4	0
Noncontrolling interests		31	-25
Income (loss) from discontinued operations attributable to Education Realty Trust, Inc.		-4,338	2,899
Gain on sale of collegiate housing properties		3,913	5,496
Noncontrolling interests		-28	-42
Gain on sale of collegiate housing properties attributable to Education Realty Trust, Inc.		$3,885	$5,454

Collegiate_housing_properties_2

Collegiate housing properties and assets under development - Components of Collegiate Housing Properties (Details) (USD $)	Dec. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2013
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified
Real Estate [Abstract]
Land	$129,111	$126,273
Land improvements	64,230	73,618
Leasehold improvements	212	74
Construction in progress	122,209	115,372
Buildings	1,527,973	1,322,892
Furniture, fixtures and equipment	73,023	71,624
Collegiate housing properties, gross	1,916,758	1,709,853
Less accumulated depreciation	-210,047	-204,181
Collegiate housing properties and assets under development, net	$1,706,711	$1,505,672

Collegiate_housing_properties_3

Collegiate housing properties and assets under development - Investment in Collegiate Housing Properties (Details) (USD $)	12 Months Ended
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified	Dec. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2013	Dec. 31, 2012	Dec. 31, 2011
Real Estate Properties [Line Items]
Encumbrances	$248,151
Initial Cost, Land	126,792
Initial Cost, Buildings and Improvements	1,015,930
Initial Costs, Total	1,142,722
Cost Capitalized Subsequently	771,717
Total Costs, Land	129,111
Total Costs, Buildings and improvements	1,787,647
Total Costs, Total	1,916,758	1,709,853	1,395,576	1,026,503
Accumulated Depreciation	210,047	204,181	175,310	166,336
Players Club
Real Estate Properties [Line Items]
Encumbrances	0
Initial Cost, Land	727
Initial Cost, Buildings and Improvements	7,498
Initial Costs, Total	8,225
Cost Capitalized Subsequently	2,400
Total Costs, Land	727
Total Costs, Buildings and improvements	9,898
Total Costs, Total	10,625
Accumulated Depreciation	3,448
Date of Acquisition/ Construction	31-Jan-05
The Commons at Knoxville
Real Estate Properties [Line Items]
Encumbrances	17,471
Initial Cost, Land	4,630
Initial Cost, Buildings and Improvements	18,386
Initial Costs, Total	23,016
Cost Capitalized Subsequently	3,313
Total Costs, Land	4,585
Total Costs, Buildings and improvements	21,699
Total Costs, Total	26,284
Accumulated Depreciation	7,990
Date of Acquisition/ Construction	31-Jan-05
The Lofts
Real Estate Properties [Line Items]
Encumbrances	0
Initial Cost, Land	2,801
Initial Cost, Buildings and Improvements	34,117
Initial Costs, Total	36,918
Cost Capitalized Subsequently	2,879
Total Costs, Land	2,801
Total Costs, Buildings and improvements	36,996
Total Costs, Total	39,797
Accumulated Depreciation	11,760
Date of Acquisition/ Construction	31-Jan-05
The Pointe at Penn State
Real Estate Properties [Line Items]
Encumbrances	0
Initial Cost, Land	2,151
Initial Cost, Buildings and Improvements	35,094
Initial Costs, Total	37,245
Cost Capitalized Subsequently	5,155
Total Costs, Land	2,151
Total Costs, Buildings and improvements	40,249
Total Costs, Total	42,400
Accumulated Depreciation	13,602
Date of Acquisition/ Construction	31-Jan-05
The Reserve at Athens(1)
Real Estate Properties [Line Items]
Encumbrances	10,896
Initial Cost, Land	1,740
Initial Cost, Buildings and Improvements	17,985
Initial Costs, Total	19,725
Cost Capitalized Subsequently	2,172
Total Costs, Land	1,740
Total Costs, Buildings and improvements	20,157
Total Costs, Total	21,897
Accumulated Depreciation	6,517
Date of Acquisition/ Construction	31-Jan-05
The Reserve at Columbia
Real Estate Properties [Line Items]
Encumbrances	16,137
Initial Cost, Land	1,071
Initial Cost, Buildings and Improvements	26,134
Initial Costs, Total	27,205
Cost Capitalized Subsequently	4,849
Total Costs, Land	1,071
Total Costs, Buildings and improvements	30,983
Total Costs, Total	32,054
Accumulated Depreciation	10,607
Date of Acquisition/ Construction	31-Jan-05
The Reserve at Tallahassee
Real Estate Properties [Line Items]
Encumbrances	0
Initial Cost, Land	2,743
Initial Cost, Buildings and Improvements	21,176
Initial Costs, Total	23,919
Cost Capitalized Subsequently	963
Total Costs, Land	2,743
Total Costs, Buildings and improvements	22,139
Total Costs, Total	24,882
Accumulated Depreciation	9,350
Date of Acquisition/ Construction	31-Jan-05
The Reserve on Perkins
Real Estate Properties [Line Items]
Encumbrances	13,658
Initial Cost, Land	913
Initial Cost, Buildings and Improvements	15,795
Initial Costs, Total	16,708
Cost Capitalized Subsequently	4,092
Total Costs, Land	913
Total Costs, Buildings and improvements	19,887
Total Costs, Total	20,800
Accumulated Depreciation	7,513
Date of Acquisition/ Construction	31-Jan-05
University Towers
Real Estate Properties [Line Items]
Encumbrances	34,000
Initial Cost, Land	0
Initial Cost, Buildings and Improvements	28,652
Initial Costs, Total	28,652
Cost Capitalized Subsequently	16,059
Total Costs, Land	2,364
Total Costs, Buildings and improvements	44,711
Total Costs, Total	47,075
Accumulated Depreciation	14,854
Date of Acquisition/ Construction	31-Jan-05
Campus Creek
Real Estate Properties [Line Items]
Encumbrances	0
Initial Cost, Land	2,251
Initial Cost, Buildings and Improvements	21,604
Initial Costs, Total	23,855
Cost Capitalized Subsequently	3,315
Total Costs, Land	2,251
Total Costs, Buildings and improvements	24,919
Total Costs, Total	27,170
Accumulated Depreciation	8,733
Date of Acquisition/ Construction	22-Feb-05
Campus Lodge
Real Estate Properties [Line Items]
Encumbrances	0
Initial Cost, Land	2,746
Initial Cost, Buildings and Improvements	44,415
Initial Costs, Total	47,161
Cost Capitalized Subsequently	3,059
Total Costs, Land	2,746
Total Costs, Buildings and improvements	47,474
Total Costs, Total	50,220
Accumulated Depreciation	15,004
Date of Acquisition/ Construction	7-Jun-05
Cape Trails
Real Estate Properties [Line Items]
Encumbrances	0
Initial Cost, Land	445
Initial Cost, Buildings and Improvements	11,207
Initial Costs, Total	11,652
Cost Capitalized Subsequently	2,195
Total Costs, Land	445
Total Costs, Buildings and improvements	13,402
Total Costs, Total	13,847
Accumulated Depreciation	3,906
Date of Acquisition/ Construction	1-Jan-06
Carrollton Place
Real Estate Properties [Line Items]
Encumbrances	0
Initial Cost, Land	682
Initial Cost, Buildings and Improvements	12,166
Initial Costs, Total	12,848
Cost Capitalized Subsequently	1,839
Total Costs, Land	682
Total Costs, Buildings and improvements	14,005
Total Costs, Total	14,687
Accumulated Depreciation	4,074
Date of Acquisition/ Construction	1-Jan-06
River Place
Real Estate Properties [Line Items]
Encumbrances	8,268
Initial Cost, Land	837
Initial Cost, Buildings and Improvements	17,746
Initial Costs, Total	18,583
Cost Capitalized Subsequently	2,941
Total Costs, Land	837
Total Costs, Buildings and improvements	20,687
Total Costs, Total	21,524
Accumulated Depreciation	6,022
Date of Acquisition/ Construction	1-Jan-06
The Reserve At Saluki Point
Real Estate Properties [Line Items]
Encumbrances	13,428
Initial Cost, Land	1,099
Initial Cost, Buildings and Improvements	32,377
Initial Costs, Total	33,476
Cost Capitalized Subsequently	1,581
Total Costs, Land	1,099
Total Costs, Buildings and improvements	33,958
Total Costs, Total	35,057
Accumulated Depreciation	6,808
Date of Acquisition/ Construction	1-Aug-08
University Apartments on Colvin
Real Estate Properties [Line Items]
Encumbrances	0
Initial Cost, Land	0
Initial Cost, Buildings and Improvements	25,792
Initial Costs, Total	25,792
Cost Capitalized Subsequently	230
Total Costs, Land	0
Total Costs, Buildings and improvements	26,022
Total Costs, Total	26,022
Accumulated Depreciation	4,765
Date of Acquisition/ Construction	1-Aug-09
2400 Nueces
Real Estate Properties [Line Items]
Encumbrances	0
Initial Cost, Land	0
Initial Cost, Buildings and Improvements	7,436
Initial Costs, Total	7,436
Cost Capitalized Subsequently	63,118
Total Costs, Land	0
Total Costs, Buildings and improvements	70,554
Total Costs, Total	70,554
Accumulated Depreciation	3,774
Date of Acquisition/ Construction	1-Aug-10
The Oaks on the Square - Phase I and II
Real Estate Properties [Line Items]
Encumbrances	0
Initial Cost, Land	1,800
Initial Cost, Buildings and Improvements	15,189
Initial Costs, Total	16,989
Cost Capitalized Subsequently	34,541
Total Costs, Land	1,800
Total Costs, Buildings and improvements	49,730
Total Costs, Total	51,530
Accumulated Depreciation	3,354
Date of Acquisition/ Construction	30-Sep-10
GrandMarc at Corner
Real Estate Properties [Line Items]
Encumbrances	0
Initial Cost, Land	0
Initial Cost, Buildings and Improvements	45,384
Initial Costs, Total	45,384
Cost Capitalized Subsequently	1,461
Total Costs, Land	0
Total Costs, Buildings and improvements	46,845
Total Costs, Total	46,845
Accumulated Depreciation	6,396
Date of Acquisition/ Construction	22-Oct-10
Campus West
Real Estate Properties [Line Items]
Encumbrances	0
Initial Cost, Land	0
Initial Cost, Buildings and Improvements	6,127
Initial Costs, Total	6,127
Cost Capitalized Subsequently	21,208
Total Costs, Land	0
Total Costs, Buildings and improvements	27,335
Total Costs, Total	27,335
Accumulated Depreciation	2,773
Date of Acquisition/ Construction	1-Mar-11
East Edge
Real Estate Properties [Line Items]
Encumbrances	0
Initial Cost, Land	10,420
Initial Cost, Buildings and Improvements	10,783
Initial Costs, Total	21,203
Cost Capitalized Subsequently	21,221
Total Costs, Land	10,420
Total Costs, Buildings and improvements	32,004
Total Costs, Total	42,424
Accumulated Depreciation	3,414
Date of Acquisition/ Construction	1-Mar-11
Jefferson Commons
Real Estate Properties [Line Items]
Encumbrances	0
Initial Cost, Land	1,420
Initial Cost, Buildings and Improvements	4,915
Initial Costs, Total	6,335
Cost Capitalized Subsequently	240
Total Costs, Land	1,420
Total Costs, Buildings and improvements	5,155
Total Costs, Total	6,575
Accumulated Depreciation	627
Date of Acquisition/ Construction	15-Mar-11
Wertland Square
Real Estate Properties [Line Items]
Encumbrances	0
Initial Cost, Land	3,230
Initial Cost, Buildings and Improvements	13,285
Initial Costs, Total	16,515
Cost Capitalized Subsequently	604
Total Costs, Land	3,230
Total Costs, Buildings and improvements	13,889
Total Costs, Total	17,119
Accumulated Depreciation	1,675
Date of Acquisition/ Construction	15-Mar-11
The Berk
Real Estate Properties [Line Items]
Encumbrances	0
Initial Cost, Land	2,687
Initial Cost, Buildings and Improvements	13,718
Initial Costs, Total	16,405
Cost Capitalized Subsequently	701
Total Costs, Land	2,687
Total Costs, Buildings and improvements	14,419
Total Costs, Total	17,106
Accumulated Depreciation	1,851
Date of Acquisition/ Construction	23-May-11
Roosevelt Point
Real Estate Properties [Line Items]
Encumbrances	33,348
Initial Cost, Land	3,093
Initial Cost, Buildings and Improvements	1,716
Initial Costs, Total	4,809
Cost Capitalized Subsequently	47,203
Total Costs, Land	3,093
Total Costs, Buildings and improvements	48,919
Total Costs, Total	52,012
Accumulated Depreciation	2,476
Date of Acquisition/ Construction	1-Jul-11
University Village Towers
Real Estate Properties [Line Items]
Encumbrances	0
Initial Cost, Land	3,434
Initial Cost, Buildings and Improvements	34,424
Initial Costs, Total	37,858
Cost Capitalized Subsequently	322
Total Costs, Land	3,434
Total Costs, Buildings and improvements	34,746
Total Costs, Total	38,180
Accumulated Depreciation	3,406
Date of Acquisition/ Construction	22-Sep-11
Irish Row
Real Estate Properties [Line Items]
Encumbrances	0
Initial Cost, Land	2,637
Initial Cost, Buildings and Improvements	24,679
Initial Costs, Total	27,316
Cost Capitalized Subsequently	435
Total Costs, Land	2,637
Total Costs, Buildings and improvements	25,114
Total Costs, Total	27,751
Accumulated Depreciation	2,491
Date of Acquisition/ Construction	1-Nov-11
The Lotus
Real Estate Properties [Line Items]
Encumbrances	0
Initial Cost, Land	5,245
Initial Cost, Buildings and Improvements	2,192
Initial Costs, Total	7,437
Cost Capitalized Subsequently	20,363
Total Costs, Land	5,245
Total Costs, Buildings and improvements	22,555
Total Costs, Total	27,800
Accumulated Depreciation	343
Date of Acquisition/ Construction	14-Nov-11
GrandMarc at Westberry Place
Real Estate Properties [Line Items]
Encumbrances	0
Initial Cost, Land	0
Initial Cost, Buildings and Improvements	53,935
Initial Costs, Total	53,935
Cost Capitalized Subsequently	1,331
Total Costs, Land	0
Total Costs, Buildings and improvements	55,266
Total Costs, Total	55,266
Accumulated Depreciation	5,168
Date of Acquisition/ Construction	8-Dec-11
3949
Real Estate Properties [Line Items]
Encumbrances	0
Initial Cost, Land	3,822
Initial Cost, Buildings and Improvements	24,448
Initial Costs, Total	28,270
Cost Capitalized Subsequently	8,663
Total Costs, Land	3,822
Total Costs, Buildings and improvements	33,111
Total Costs, Total	36,933
Accumulated Depreciation	2,396
Date of Acquisition/ Construction	21-Dec-11
Reserve on Stinson Apartments
Real Estate Properties [Line Items]
Encumbrances	13,498
Initial Cost, Land	2,111
Initial Cost, Buildings and Improvements	20,609
Initial Costs, Total	22,720
Cost Capitalized Subsequently	1,068
Total Costs, Land	2,111
Total Costs, Buildings and improvements	21,677
Total Costs, Total	23,788
Accumulated Depreciation	2,596
Date of Acquisition/ Construction	27-Jan-12
Central Hall I & II
Real Estate Properties [Line Items]
Encumbrances	0
Initial Cost, Land	0
Initial Cost, Buildings and Improvements	0
Initial Costs, Total	0
Cost Capitalized Subsequently	25,554
Total Costs, Land	0
Total Costs, Buildings and improvements	25,554
Total Costs, Total	25,554
Accumulated Depreciation	1,628
Date of Acquisition/ Construction	1-Jun-12
The Retreat at Oxford
Real Estate Properties [Line Items]
Encumbrances	0
Initial Cost, Land	4,743
Initial Cost, Buildings and Improvements	0
Initial Costs, Total	4,743
Cost Capitalized Subsequently	31,489
Total Costs, Land	4,743
Total Costs, Buildings and improvements	31,489
Total Costs, Total	36,232
Accumulated Depreciation	1,635
Date of Acquisition/ Construction	14-Jun-12
605 West
Real Estate Properties [Line Items]
Encumbrances	0
Initial Cost, Land	4,794
Initial Cost, Buildings and Improvements	0
Initial Costs, Total	4,794
Cost Capitalized Subsequently	40,464
Total Costs, Land	4,794
Total Costs, Buildings and improvements	40,464
Total Costs, Total	45,258
Accumulated Depreciation	696
Date of Acquisition/ Construction	1-Sep-12
The Province
Real Estate Properties [Line Items]
Encumbrances	0
Initial Cost, Land	4,436
Initial Cost, Buildings and Improvements	45,173
Initial Costs, Total	49,609
Cost Capitalized Subsequently	278
Total Costs, Land	4,436
Total Costs, Buildings and improvements	45,451
Total Costs, Total	49,887
Accumulated Depreciation	3,743
Date of Acquisition/ Construction	21-Sep-12
The District on 5th
Real Estate Properties [Line Items]
Encumbrances	0
Initial Cost, Land	2,601
Initial Cost, Buildings and Improvements	63,396
Initial Costs, Total	65,997
Cost Capitalized Subsequently	222
Total Costs, Land	2,601
Total Costs, Buildings and improvements	63,618
Total Costs, Total	66,219
Accumulated Depreciation	5,478
Date of Acquisition/ Construction	4-Oct-12
Campus Village
Real Estate Properties [Line Items]
Encumbrances	0
Initial Cost, Land	2,650
Initial Cost, Buildings and Improvements	18,077
Initial Costs, Total	20,727
Cost Capitalized Subsequently	847
Total Costs, Land	2,650
Total Costs, Buildings and improvements	18,924
Total Costs, Total	21,574
Accumulated Depreciation	2,129
Date of Acquisition/ Construction	19-Oct-12
Champions Court I
Real Estate Properties [Line Items]
Encumbrances	0
Initial Cost, Land	0
Initial Cost, Buildings and Improvements	0
Initial Costs, Total	0
Cost Capitalized Subsequently	47,368
Total Costs, Land	0
Total Costs, Buildings and improvements	47,368
Total Costs, Total	47,368
Accumulated Depreciation	449
Date of Acquisition/ Construction	1-Nov-12
Champions Court II
Real Estate Properties [Line Items]
Encumbrances	0
Initial Cost, Land	0
Initial Cost, Buildings and Improvements	0
Initial Costs, Total	0
Cost Capitalized Subsequently	24,329
Total Costs, Land	0
Total Costs, Buildings and improvements	24,329
Total Costs, Total	24,329
Accumulated Depreciation	239
Date of Acquisition/ Construction	1-Nov-12
Haggin Hall I(5)
Real Estate Properties [Line Items]
Encumbrances	0
Initial Cost, Land	0
Initial Cost, Buildings and Improvements	0
Initial Costs, Total	0
Cost Capitalized Subsequently	23,840
Total Costs, Land	0
Total Costs, Buildings and improvements	23,840
Total Costs, Total	23,840
Accumulated Depreciation	219
Date of Acquisition/ Construction	1-Nov-12
Woodland Glen I & II(5)
Real Estate Properties [Line Items]
Encumbrances	0
Initial Cost, Land	0
Initial Cost, Buildings and Improvements	0
Initial Costs, Total	0
Cost Capitalized Subsequently	45,730
Total Costs, Land	0
Total Costs, Buildings and improvements	45,730
Total Costs, Total	45,730
Accumulated Depreciation	435
Date of Acquisition/ Construction	1-Nov-12
The Province at Kent State
Real Estate Properties [Line Items]
Encumbrances	0
Initial Cost, Land	4,239
Initial Cost, Buildings and Improvements	40,441
Initial Costs, Total	44,680
Cost Capitalized Subsequently	97
Total Costs, Land	4,239
Total Costs, Buildings and improvements	40,538
Total Costs, Total	44,777
Accumulated Depreciation	3,240
Date of Acquisition/ Construction	16-Nov-12
The Centre at Overton Park
Real Estate Properties [Line Items]
Encumbrances	22,697
Initial Cost, Land	3,781
Initial Cost, Buildings and Improvements	35,232
Initial Costs, Total	39,013
Cost Capitalized Subsequently	1,013
Total Costs, Land	3,781
Total Costs, Buildings and improvements	36,245
Total Costs, Total	40,026
Accumulated Depreciation	2,419
Date of Acquisition/ Construction	7-Dec-12
The Suites at Overton Park
Real Estate Properties [Line Items]
Encumbrances	24,216
Initial Cost, Land	4,384
Initial Cost, Buildings and Improvements	33,281
Initial Costs, Total	37,665
Cost Capitalized Subsequently	442
Total Costs, Land	4,384
Total Costs, Buildings and improvements	33,723
Total Costs, Total	38,107
Accumulated Depreciation	2,632
Date of Acquisition/ Construction	7-Dec-12
Woodland Glen III, IV & V(5)
Real Estate Properties [Line Items]
Encumbrances	0
Initial Cost, Land	0
Initial Cost, Buildings and Improvements	0
Initial Costs, Total	0
Cost Capitalized Subsequently	76,121
Total Costs, Land	0
Total Costs, Buildings and improvements	76,121
Total Costs, Total	76,121
Accumulated Depreciation	119
Date of Acquisition/ Construction	1-May-13
The Oaks on the Square - Phase III
Real Estate Properties [Line Items]
Encumbrances	0
Initial Cost, Land	1,531
Initial Cost, Buildings and Improvements	0
Initial Costs, Total	1,531
Cost Capitalized Subsequently	10,951
Total Costs, Land	1,531
Total Costs, Buildings and improvements	10,951
Total Costs, Total	12,482
Accumulated Depreciation	1,856
Date of Acquisition/ Construction	13-Feb-13
The Cottages on Lindberg
Real Estate Properties [Line Items]
Encumbrances	0
Initial Cost, Land	1,800
Initial Cost, Buildings and Improvements	0
Initial Costs, Total	1,800
Cost Capitalized Subsequently	34,048
Total Costs, Land	1,800
Total Costs, Buildings and improvements	34,048
Total Costs, Total	35,848
Accumulated Depreciation	2,327
Date of Acquisition/ Construction	28-Aug-13
The Retreat at State College
Real Estate Properties [Line Items]
Encumbrances	0
Initial Cost, Land	6,251
Initial Cost, Buildings and Improvements	0
Initial Costs, Total	6,251
Cost Capitalized Subsequently	49,758
Total Costs, Land	6,251
Total Costs, Buildings and improvements	49,758
Total Costs, Total	56,009
Accumulated Depreciation	1,661
Date of Acquisition/ Construction	11-Sep-13
The Varsity
Real Estate Properties [Line Items]
Encumbrances	32,420
Initial Cost, Land	3,300
Initial Cost, Buildings and Improvements	50,330
Initial Costs, Total	53,630
Cost Capitalized Subsequently	167
Total Costs, Land	3,300
Total Costs, Buildings and improvements	50,497
Total Costs, Total	53,797
Accumulated Depreciation	0
Date of Acquisition/ Construction	19-Dec-13
Limestone Park I & II(5)
Real Estate Properties [Line Items]
Encumbrances	0
Initial Cost, Land	0
Initial Cost, Buildings and Improvements	0
Initial Costs, Total	0
Cost Capitalized Subsequently	9,615
Total Costs, Land	0
Total Costs, Buildings and improvements	9,615
Total Costs, Total	9,615
Accumulated Depreciation	0
Date of Acquisition/ Construction	31-Dec-13
Storrs II
Real Estate Properties [Line Items]
Encumbrances	0
Initial Cost, Land	3,308
Initial Cost, Buildings and Improvements	0
Initial Costs, Total	3,308
Cost Capitalized Subsequently	11,008
Total Costs, Land	3,308
Total Costs, Buildings and improvements	11,008
Total Costs, Total	14,316
Accumulated Depreciation	0
Date of Acquisition/ Construction	1-Jun-14
Retreat at Louisville
Real Estate Properties [Line Items]
Encumbrances	8,114
Initial Cost, Land	4,257
Initial Cost, Buildings and Improvements	0
Initial Costs, Total	4,257
Cost Capitalized Subsequently	16,393
Total Costs, Land	4,257
Total Costs, Buildings and improvements	16,393
Total Costs, Total	20,650
Accumulated Depreciation	0
Date of Acquisition/ Construction	1-Jul-14
109 Tower
Real Estate Properties [Line Items]
Encumbrances	0
Initial Cost, Land	1,779
Initial Cost, Buildings and Improvements	0
Initial Costs, Total	1,779
Cost Capitalized Subsequently	42,415
Total Costs, Land	1,779
Total Costs, Buildings and improvements	42,415
Total Costs, Total	44,194
Accumulated Depreciation	461
Date of Acquisition/ Construction	12-Aug-14
District on Apache
Real Estate Properties [Line Items]
Encumbrances	0
Initial Cost, Land	8,203
Initial Cost, Buildings and Improvements	81,016
Initial Costs, Total	89,219
Cost Capitalized Subsequently	47
Total Costs, Land	8,203
Total Costs, Buildings and improvements	81,063
Total Costs, Total	89,266
Accumulated Depreciation	$988
Date of Acquisition/ Construction	15-Sep-14

Collegiate_housing_properties_4

Collegiate housing properties and assets under development - Investment in Collegiate Housing Properties (References) (Details) (USD $)	12 Months Ended
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified	Dec. 31, 2014
Minimum
Real Estate Properties [Line Items]
Useful lives of assets	3 years
Maximum
Real Estate Properties [Line Items]
Useful lives of assets	40 years
The Commons At Knoxville, The Reserve On Stinson, The Reserve At Perkins And The Reserve At Athens
Real Estate Properties [Line Items]
Outstanding loan	55,500
The Reserve At Saluki Pointe And River Place
Real Estate Properties [Line Items]
Outstanding loan	21,700
The Reserve at Columbia
Real Estate Properties [Line Items]
Outstanding loan	16,100

Collegiate_housing_properties_5

Collegiate housing properties and assets under development - Historical Cost of Trusts Investment in Collegiate Housing Properties (Details) (USD $)	12 Months Ended
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified	Dec. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2013	Dec. 31, 2012
Reconciliation of Carrying Amount of Real Estate Investments [Roll Forward]
Balance, beginning of period	$1,709,853	$1,395,576	$1,026,503
Collegiate housing acquisitions or completed developments	349,841	290,881	353,966
Collegiate housing dispositions	-154,545	-55,880	-104,117
Impairment loss	-12,733	-5,001	0
Additions	24,792	84,404	120,058
Disposals	-450	-127	-834
Balance, end of period	$1,916,758	$1,709,853	$1,395,576

Collegiate_housing_properties_6

Collegiate housing properties and assets under development - Reconciliation of Accumulated Investment Depreciation (Details) (USD $)	12 Months Ended
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified	Dec. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2013	Dec. 31, 2012
Reconciliation of Real Estate Accumulated Depreciation [Roll Forward]
Balance, beginning of period	$204,181	$175,310	$166,336
Depreciation	57,166	47,693	35,708
Disposals	-396	-115	-771
Collegiate housing dispositions	-50,904	-18,707	-25,963
Balance, end of period	$210,047	$204,181	$175,310

Collegiate_housing_properties_7

Collegiate housing properties and assets under development - Additional Information (Details) (USD $)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2012	Dec. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2013
Real Estate Properties [Line Items]
Impairment loss	$0
Discontinued Operations
Real Estate Properties [Line Items]
Impairment loss		$12,700,000	$5,000,000

Other_assets_Other_Assets_Deta

Other assets - Other Assets (Details) (USD $)	Dec. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2013
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified
Schedule of Other Assets [Line Items]
Accounts receivable related to pre-development costs	$2,205	$807
Receivable for construction loan guarantee (see Note 2)	375	18,125
Deferred tax asset	3,146	2,143
Total other assets	69,749	47,452
Other Assets
Schedule of Other Assets [Line Items]
Accounts receivable related to pre-development costs	2,061	2,222
Receivable for construction loan guarantee (see Note 2)	0	3,000
Prepaid expenses	2,295	1,244
Deferred tax asset	2,100	2,143
Deferred financing costs	9,148	6,192
Investments in unconsolidated entities	29,450	21,175
Corporate assets, net	13,745	3,249
Other	10,950	8,227
Total other assets	$69,749	$47,452

Other_assets_Additional_Inform

Other assets - Additional Information (Details) (USD $)	12 Months Ended
In Millions, unless otherwise specified	Dec. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2013	Dec. 31, 2012
Property, Plant and Equipment [Line Items]
Office furniture, historical cost	$17.30	$5.80
Furniture and Fixtures
Property, Plant and Equipment [Line Items]
Office furniture, accumulated depreciation	3.5	2.5
Depreciation expense	$0.90	$0.60	$0.60
Furniture and Fixtures | Minimum
Property, Plant and Equipment [Line Items]
Office furniture, estimated useful lives	3 years
Furniture and Fixtures | Maximum
Property, Plant and Equipment [Line Items]
Office furniture, estimated useful lives	7 years

Investments_in_unconsolidated_2

Investments in unconsolidated entities - Financial Information of Unconsolidated Joint Ventures Limited Liability Companies and Limited Partnerships (Details) (USD $)	3 Months Ended								12 Months Ended
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified	Dec. 31, 2014	Sep. 30, 2014	Jun. 30, 2014	Mar. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2013	Sep. 30, 2013	Jun. 30, 2013	Mar. 31, 2013	Dec. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2013	Dec. 31, 2012
Equity Method Investments and Joint Ventures [Abstract]
Total assets	$148,117				$95,380				$148,117	$95,380
Total liabilities	99,714				58,025				99,714	58,025
Equity	48,403				37,355				48,403	37,355
Investment in unconsolidated entities	29,450				21,175				29,450	21,175
Revenues									31,537	22,829	3,847
Net loss									-1,785	-1,824	-4,013
Equity in losses of unconsolidated entities	($340)	($236)	($112)	($22)	($101)	($61)	($21)	($20)	($710)	($203)	($363)

Investments_in_unconsolidated_3

Investments in unconsolidated entities - Additional Information (Details) (USD $)	Dec. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2013
In Millions, unless otherwise specified
Schedule of Equity Method Investments [Line Items]
Investments classified in accrued expenses		1.7
Accrued Liabilities
Schedule of Equity Method Investments [Line Items]
Investments classified in accrued expenses	1.7
MN Holdings, Llc
Schedule of Equity Method Investments [Line Items]
Equity method investment, ownership percentage	50.00%	50.00%
West Clayton Athens GA Owner LLC
Schedule of Equity Method Investments [Line Items]
Equity method investment, ownership percentage	50.00%	50.00%
Elauwit Networks
Schedule of Equity Method Investments [Line Items]
Equity method investment, ownership percentage	10.00%	10.00%
University Village-Greensboro LLC
Schedule of Equity Method Investments [Line Items]
Equity method investment, ownership percentage	25.00%	25.00%

Incentive_plans_Additional_Inf

Incentive plans - Additional Information (Details) (USD $)	12 Months Ended			0 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2013	Dec. 31, 2012	12-May-14	Jan. 01, 2014	Jan. 01, 2013	Jan. 01, 2015	Jan. 02, 2012	4-May-11
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award [Line Items]
Noncash compensation expense related to stock-based incentive awards	$2,249,000	$2,127,000	$2,041,000
Chief Financial Officer
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award [Line Items]
Stock Issued During Period, Value, Share-based Compensation, Forfeited				200,000
General and Administrative Expense
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award [Line Items]
Noncash compensation expense related to stock-based incentive awards	1,900,000	2,100,000	2,000,000
Long Term Incentive Plan 2012 | Independent Director
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award [Line Items]
Equity incentive plan, shares issued	13,384	11,060
Restricted Stock
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award [Line Items]
Equity incentive plan, unearned compensation related to restricted stock	600,000	800,000
Equity incentive plan, compensation expense	700,000	900,000	900,000
Granted (shares)	25,944	21,930	23,532
Time Based Restricted Stock | Long Term Incentive Plan 2014
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award [Line Items]
Equity incentive plan, shares issued					24,742
Share Based Compensation Arrangement By Share Based Payment Award Expiry Period From Date Of Grant	3 years
Time Based Restricted Stock | Long Term Incentive Plan 2013
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award [Line Items]
Equity incentive plan, shares issued						21,928
Equity incentive plan, vesting period	3 years
Share Based Compensation Arrangement By Share Based Payment Award Expiry Period From Date Of Grant	3 years
Restricted Stock Units (RSUs)
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award [Line Items]
Equity incentive plan, unearned compensation related to restricted stock	1,500,000	900,000
Equity incentive plan, compensation expense	1,100,000	800,000	700,000
RSU awards vested					67,750
Granted (shares)	102,305	61,092	0				8,754
Restricted Stock Units (RSUs) | Long Term Incentive Plan 2014
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award [Line Items]
Equity incentive plan, vesting period	3 years
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Options, Grants in Period, Gross					102,297
Restricted Stock Units (RSUs) | Long Term Incentive Plan 2013
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award [Line Items]
Equity incentive plan, vesting period	3 years
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Options, Grants in Period, Gross						40,724
Restricted Stock Units (RSUs) | Long Term Incentive Plan 2012
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award [Line Items]
Performance vested RSUs granted								$1,100,000
Stock Incentive Plan 2011
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award [Line Items]
Equity incentive plan, common stock shares authorized									105,000
Equity incentive plan, additional common stock shares									1,049,167
Equity incentive plan, common stock shares reserved for issuance	820,430

Incentive_plans_Stock_Based_In

Incentive plans - Stock Based Incentive Plan Activity (Details) (USD $)	0 Months Ended	12 Months Ended
	Jan. 01, 2015	Dec. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2013	Dec. 31, 2012
Restricted Stock
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Options, Outstanding [Roll Forward]
Beginning balance (shares)		61,341	82,365	93,945
Granted (shares)		25,944	21,930	23,532
Vested (shares)		-26,476	-30,340	-25,789
Surrendered (shares)		-13,999	-12,614	-9,323
Ending balance (shares)		46,810	61,341	82,365
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Equity Instruments Other than Options, Nonvested, Weighted Average Grant Date Fair Value [Abstract]
Beginning balance, Weighted-Average Grant Date Fair Value Per Restricted Stock Award (usd per share)		$26.88	$22.89	$19.89
Granted, Weighted-Average Grant Date Fair Value Per Restricted Stock Award (usd per share)		$26.70	$31.92	$30.42
Vested, Weighted-Average Grant Date Fair Value Per Restricted Stock Award (usd per share)		$25.74	$31.62	$30.54
Surrendered, Weighted-Average Grant Date Fair Value Per Restricted Stock Award (usd per share)		$26.85	$31.62	$30.63
Beginning balance, Weighted-Average Grant Date Fair Value Per Restricted Stock Award (usd per share)		$27.94	$26.88	$22.89
Restricted Stock Units (RSUs)
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Options, Outstanding [Roll Forward]
Beginning balance (shares)	146,911	130,092	69,000	137,000
Granted (shares)	8,754	102,305	61,092	0
Vested (shares)		-47,785	0	-46,934
Surrendered (shares)		-37,701	0	-21,066
Ending balance (shares)		146,911	130,092	69,000
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Equity Instruments Other than Options, Nonvested, Weighted Average Grant Date Fair Value [Abstract]
Beginning balance, Weighted-Average Grant Date Fair Value Per Restricted Stock Award (usd per share)	$20.58	$20.34	$18.03	$16.77
Granted, Weighted-Average Grant Date Fair Value Per Restricted Stock Award (usd per share)		$19.20	$22.95	$0
Vested, Weighted-Average Grant Date Fair Value Per Restricted Stock Award (usd per share)		$26.46	$0	$31.92
Surrendered, Weighted-Average Grant Date Fair Value Per Restricted Stock Award (usd per share)		$26.46	$0	$31.92
Beginning balance, Weighted-Average Grant Date Fair Value Per Restricted Stock Award (usd per share)		$20.58	$20.34	$18.03

Debt_Additional_Information_De

Debt - Additional Information (Details) (USD $)	12 Months Ended			0 Months Ended		1 Months Ended	0 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2013	Dec. 31, 2012	Nov. 24, 2014	Jul. 14, 2014	Feb. 28, 2014	Nov. 19, 2014	Jan. 13, 2014	Jul. 01, 2014
	collegiate_housing_community	collegiate_housing_community
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Debt Instrument, Accordion Feature, Maximum Allowable Increase								$250,000,000
Line of credit facility, amount outstanding	24,000,000	356,900,000
Covenant dividend payout	95.00%
Long-term Debt, Gross	685,652,000
Prepayments penalties and other fees	2,807,000	0	0
Number of Collegiate Housing Communities Released From Debt Pool	4	1
Repayment Of Mortgage Secured Debt	16,700,000
Gains (Losses) on Extinguishment of Debt	-3,543,000	0	0
Long-term debt	687,138,000
Education Realty Operating Partnership L.P.
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Line of credit facility, amount outstanding	24,000,000	356,900,000
Repayments of mortgage debt				69,000,000
Prepayments penalties and other fees	2,807,000	0	0	2,600,000
Gains (Losses) on Extinguishment of Debt	-3,543,000	0	0
Master Secured Credit Facility
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Repayment Of Mortgage Secured Debt	7,200,000
Interest Rate as of the Repayment Date	4.96%
Gains (Losses) on Extinguishment of Debt					-100,000
GrandMarc at Westberry Place
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Margin on variable interest rate						4.85%
Gains (Losses) on Extinguishment of Debt						-600,000
Long-term debt						35,700,000
Mortgage loan, maturity date						1-Jan-20
Notes Payable to Banks
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Debt term	7 years
Debt Instrument, Interest Rate, Stated Percentage	6.02%
Repayments of Long-term Debt	66,500,000
Construction debt
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Long-term Debt, Gross	73,882,000	123,682,000
Interest Rate as of the Repayment Date	2.40%
Senior Unsecured Notes Due 2024 | Unsecured Debt | Education Realty Operating Partnership L.P.
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Debt term				10 years
Face amount of debt				250,000,000
Debt Instrument, Percentage Of Par Value				99.99%
Debt Instrument, Interest Rate, Stated Percentage				4.60%
Proceeds from Issuance of Unsecured Debt				247,000,000
Fifth Amended Revolver | Loss on Extinguishment of Debt
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Prepayments penalties and other fees	200,000
Fifth Amended Revolver | Revolving Credit Facility
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Revolving credit facility, maximum availability							500,000,000
Debt Instrument, Accordion Feature, Maximum Allowable Increase							1,000,000,000
Debt term							4 years
Line of credit facility, interest rate	1.42%
Line of credit facility, amount outstanding	24,000,000
Line of credit facility, remaining borrowing base availability	476,000,000
Credit Agreement | Unsecured Debt
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Long-term Debt, Gross								187,500,000
Credit Agreement Tranche A | Unsecured Debt
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Debt term								7 years
Long-term Debt, Gross								122,500,000
Interest rate at period end	3.85%
Credit Agreement Tranche B | Unsecured Debt
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Debt term								5 years
Long-term Debt, Gross								65,000,000
Interest rate at period end	2.86%
University Towers | Mortgage debt
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Maturity extension period		12 months
Number of loan extension periods	2
Debt service ratio		1.3
The Varsity | Construction debt
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Debt Instrument, Interest Rate, Stated Percentage		2.25%
The Suites at Overton Park | Fixed Rate Mortgage Debt
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Maturity extension period			1 year
Roosevelt Point | Mortgage debt
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Maturity extension period	1 year
Number of loan extension periods	2
Joint venture, ownership percentage	95.00%
Pointe West Collegiate Housing Community at University of South Carolina
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Repayment Of Mortgage Secured Debt									9,500,000
Pointe West Collegiate Housing Community at University of South Carolina | Fixed Rate Mortgage Debt
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Interest Rate as of the Repayment Date									4.92%
The Oaks On The Square - Phase IV | Construction debt | Education Realty Operating Partnership L.P.
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Outstanding construction loan	38,000,000
Base Rate | Retreat at Louisville
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Margin on variable interest rate	1.05%
Base Rate | The Suites at Overton Park
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Margin on variable interest rate			2.50%
Base Rate | The Oaks On The Square - Phase IV | Construction debt | Education Realty Operating Partnership L.P.
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Margin on variable interest rate	1.00%
Prime Rate | University Towers | Mortgage debt
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Margin on variable interest rate		0.50%
LIBOR Rate | Minimum | Credit Agreement Tranche A | Unsecured Debt | Education Realty Operating Partnership L.P.
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Margin on variable interest rate								1.55%
LIBOR Rate | Minimum | Credit Agreement Tranche B | Unsecured Debt | Education Realty Operating Partnership L.P.
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Margin on variable interest rate								1.20%
LIBOR Rate | Maximum | Credit Agreement Tranche A | Unsecured Debt | Education Realty Operating Partnership L.P.
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Margin on variable interest rate								2.25%
LIBOR Rate | Maximum | Credit Agreement Tranche B | Unsecured Debt | Education Realty Operating Partnership L.P.
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Margin on variable interest rate								1.90%
LIBOR Rate | University Towers | Mortgage debt
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Margin on variable interest rate		2.10%
LIBOR Rate | Retreat at Louisville
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Margin on variable interest rate	2.05%
LIBOR Rate | Roosevelt Point | Mortgage debt
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Margin on variable interest rate	2.25%
LIBOR Rate | The Oaks On The Square - Phase IV | Construction debt | Education Realty Operating Partnership L.P.
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Margin on variable interest rate	2.00%
Interest Rate Swap | Swap
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Derivative Liability, Notional Amount								$187,500,000
Interest Rate Swap | Swap | Credit Agreement Tranche A | Unsecured Debt
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Derivative, Average Fixed Interest Rate	2.30%
Derivative, Average Fixed Interest Rate Margin	1.55%
Interest Rate Swap | Swap | Credit Agreement Tranche B | Unsecured Debt
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Derivative, Average Fixed Interest Rate	1.66%
Derivative, Average Fixed Interest Rate Margin	1.20%

Debt_Mortgage_and_Construction

Debt - Mortgage and Construction Notes Payable (Details) (USD $)	12 Months Ended
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified	Dec. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2013
Mortgage Loans on Real Estate [Line Items]
Outstanding mortgage and construction indebtedness, excluding unamortized premium/discount	$685,652
Unamortized premium	1,486	2,300
Total net of unamortized premium	687,138
Master Secured Credit Facility
Mortgage Loans on Real Estate [Line Items]
Outstanding mortgage and construction indebtedness, excluding unamortized premium/discount	93,356	169,698
Interest Rate as of the Repayment Date	5.84%
Mortgage Debt
Mortgage Loans on Real Estate [Line Items]
Outstanding mortgage and construction indebtedness, excluding unamortized premium/discount	80,913	127,010
Interest Rate as of the Repayment Date	3.78%
Construction Loans
Mortgage Loans on Real Estate [Line Items]
Outstanding mortgage and construction indebtedness, excluding unamortized premium/discount	73,882	123,682
Interest Rate as of the Repayment Date	2.40%
All Mortgage Loans On Real Estate
Mortgage Loans on Real Estate [Line Items]
Outstanding mortgage and construction indebtedness, excluding unamortized premium/discount	248,151	420,390
Unamortized premium	1,486	2,291
Total net of unamortized premium	249,637	422,681
Less current portion	-68,675	-13,834
Total long-term debt, net of current portion	180,962	408,847
Interest Rate as of the Repayment Date	4.14%
The Reserve At Saluki Pointe And River Place | Master Secured Credit Facility
Mortgage Loans on Real Estate [Line Items]
Outstanding mortgage and construction indebtedness, excluding unamortized premium/discount	21,696	22,053
Interest Rate as of the Repayment Date	5.67%
Maturity Date	1-Jan-20
The Commons At Knoxville, The Reserve On Stinson, The Reserve At Perkins And The Reserve At Athens | Master Secured Credit Facility
Mortgage Loans on Real Estate [Line Items]
Outstanding mortgage and construction indebtedness, excluding unamortized premium/discount	55,523	56,450
Interest Rate as of the Repayment Date	6.02%
Maturity Date	1-Jan-19
The Commons On Kinnear And The Reserve At Perkins | Master Secured Credit Facility
Mortgage Loans on Real Estate [Line Items]
Outstanding mortgage and construction indebtedness, excluding unamortized premium/discount	16,137	16,413
Interest Rate as of the Repayment Date	5.45%
Maturity Date	1-Jan-17
The Reserve at Athens(1) | Master Secured Credit Facility
Mortgage Loans on Real Estate [Line Items]
Outstanding mortgage and construction indebtedness, excluding unamortized premium/discount	0	7,239
College Station at West Lafayette The Pointe at Penn State The Reserve at Star Pass | Master Secured Credit Facility
Mortgage Loans on Real Estate [Line Items]
Outstanding mortgage and construction indebtedness, excluding unamortized premium/discount	0	67,543
The Suites at Overton Park | Mortgage Debt
Mortgage Loans on Real Estate [Line Items]
Outstanding mortgage and construction indebtedness, excluding unamortized premium/discount	24,216	24,695
Interest Rate as of the Repayment Date	4.16%
Maturity Date	1-Apr-16
The Centre at Overton Park | Mortgage Debt
Mortgage Loans on Real Estate [Line Items]
Outstanding mortgage and construction indebtedness, excluding unamortized premium/discount	22,697	23,024
Interest Rate as of the Repayment Date	5.60%
Maturity Date	1-Jan-17
Pointe West | Mortgage Debt
Mortgage Loans on Real Estate [Line Items]
Outstanding mortgage and construction indebtedness, excluding unamortized premium/discount	0	9,594
GrandMarc at Westberry Place | Mortgage Debt
Mortgage Loans on Real Estate [Line Items]
Outstanding mortgage and construction indebtedness, excluding unamortized premium/discount	0	35,697
University Towers | Mortgage Debt
Mortgage Loans on Real Estate [Line Items]
Outstanding mortgage and construction indebtedness, excluding unamortized premium/discount	34,000	34,000
Interest Rate as of the Repayment Date	2.29%
Maturity Date	1-Jul-16
Retreat at Louisville | Construction Loans
Mortgage Loans on Real Estate [Line Items]
Outstanding mortgage and construction indebtedness, excluding unamortized premium/discount	8,114	0
Interest Rate as of the Repayment Date	2.22%
Maturity Date	1-Aug-17
The Oaks on Square | Construction Loans
Mortgage Loans on Real Estate [Line Items]
Outstanding mortgage and construction indebtedness, excluding unamortized premium/discount	0	31,351
The Oaks on the Square - Phase III | Construction Loans
Mortgage Loans on Real Estate [Line Items]
Outstanding mortgage and construction indebtedness, excluding unamortized premium/discount	0	235
The Varsity | Construction Loans
Mortgage Loans on Real Estate [Line Items]
Outstanding mortgage and construction indebtedness, excluding unamortized premium/discount	32,420	32,420
Interest Rate as of the Repayment Date	2.41%
Maturity Date	1-Aug-15
The Retreat at Oxford | Construction Loans
Mortgage Loans on Real Estate [Line Items]
Outstanding mortgage and construction indebtedness, excluding unamortized premium/discount	0	27,100
Roosevelt Point | Construction Loans
Mortgage Loans on Real Estate [Line Items]
Outstanding mortgage and construction indebtedness, excluding unamortized premium/discount	$33,348	$32,576
Interest Rate as of the Repayment Date	2.44%
Maturity Date	20-Mar-15

Debt_Principal_Balance_Of_Cons

Debt - Principal Balance Of Construction Loans (Details) (Construction Loans, USD $)	12 Months Ended	1 Months Ended
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified	Dec. 31, 2014	Apr. 30, 2014	Sep. 30, 2014	Dec. 31, 2014
Mortgage Loans on Real Estate [Line Items]
Interest Rate as of the Repayment Date	2.40%
The Oaks On The Square - Phase I And II | Education Realty Operating Partnership L.P.
Mortgage Loans on Real Estate [Line Items]
Outstanding Balance as of the Repayment Date		$32,319
Interest Rate as of the Repayment Date		2.41%
The Oaks on the Square - Phase III | Education Realty Operating Partnership L.P.
Mortgage Loans on Real Estate [Line Items]
Outstanding Balance as of the Repayment Date			8,219
Interest Rate as of the Repayment Date			2.10%
The Retreat at Oxford | Education Realty Operating Partnership L.P.
Mortgage Loans on Real Estate [Line Items]
Outstanding Balance as of the Repayment Date	27,126			$27,126
Interest Rate as of the Repayment Date				1.96%

Debt_Carrying_Amount_of_Mortga

Debt - Carrying Amount of Mortgage and Construction Notes Payable (Details) (USD $)	12 Months Ended
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified	Dec. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2013
Movement in Mortgage Loans on Real Estate [Roll Forward]
Balance, beginning of period	$422,681	$398,846
Additions	17,865	122,543
Repayments of principal	-190,103	-97,931
Amortization of premium	-806	-777
Balance, end of period	$249,637	$422,681

Debt_Scheduled_Maturities_of_O

Debt - Scheduled Maturities of Outstanding Mortgage and Construction Indebtedness (Details) (USD $)	Dec. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2013
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified
Debt Disclosure [Abstract]
2015	$68,675
2016	59,410
2017	47,176
2018	1,629
2019	116,688
Thereafter	392,074
Total	685,652
Debt premium	1,486	2,300
Total net of unamortized premium	$687,138

Noncontrolling_interests_Addit

Noncontrolling interests - Additional Information (Details) (USD $)	0 Months Ended	12 Months Ended	0 Months Ended	12 Months Ended		0 Months Ended
In Thousands, except Share data, unless otherwise specified	Nov. 20, 2014	Dec. 31, 2014	Apr. 15, 2014	Dec. 31, 2013	Dec. 31, 2012	Aug. 29, 2014	Sep. 10, 2013
Redeemable Noncontrolling Interest [Line Items]
Reverse stock split conversion ratio	0.3333
Number of units redeemed (shares)		7,391
Roosevelt Point
Redeemable Noncontrolling Interest [Line Items]
Payments to noncontrolling interest			$48,100
Education Realty Operating Partnership L.P.
Redeemable Noncontrolling Interest [Line Items]
Number of new joint venture agreements		3
Payments to noncontrolling interest		1,011		449	532
Redeemable Operating Partnership units (shares)		822,952		830,343	865,727
Education Realty Operating Partnership L.P. | Redeemable noncontrolling units
Redeemable Noncontrolling Interest [Line Items]
Total potentially dilutive securities (shares)		207,257		207,257	207,257
Education Realty Operating Partnership L.P. | Collegiate Housing Community At University Of Mississippi Campus Retreat
Redeemable Noncontrolling Interest [Line Items]
Payments to noncontrolling interest						8,500
Education Realty Operating Partnership L.P. | Roosevelt Point
Redeemable Noncontrolling Interest [Line Items]
Payments to noncontrolling interest			800
Joint venture, ownership percentage			95.00%
Education Realty Operating Partnership L.P. | Collegiate Housing Properties Or Leaseholds East Edge Apartments
Redeemable Noncontrolling Interest [Line Items]
Ownership percentage purchase							100.00%
Payments to noncontrolling interest							$6,900
Joint Venture [Member] | Collegiate Housing Community At University Of Mississippi Campus Retreat
Redeemable Noncontrolling Interest [Line Items]
Ownership percentage purchase						30.00%
Joint Venture [Member] | Collegiate Housing Properties Or Leaseholds East Edge Apartments
Redeemable Noncontrolling Interest [Line Items]
Ownership percentage purchase							10.00%

Noncontrolling_interests_Activ

Noncontrolling interests Activity (Details) (USD $)	12 Months Ended
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified	Dec. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2013
Increase (Decrease) in Temporary Equity [Roll Forward]
Beginning balance	$9,871
Adjustments to report redeemable limited partner units at fair value	5,212
Ending balance	14,512
Noncontrolling Interests
Increase (Decrease) in Temporary Equity [Roll Forward]
Beginning balance	2,359	1,164
Net income	65	168
Contributions from redeemable noncontrolling interests	0	1,127
Distributions	-548	-100
Adjustments to report redeemable limited partner units at fair value	2,555	0
Ending balance	4,431	2,359
Limited Partners
Increase (Decrease) in Temporary Equity [Roll Forward]
Beginning balance	7,512	7,780
Net income	367	81
Distributions	-378	-349
Conversion of redeemable partner units into cash	-77	0
Adjustments to report redeemable limited partner units at fair value	2,657	0
Ending balance	$10,081	$7,512

Earnings_per_shareunit_Additio

Earnings per share/unit - Additional information (Details)	0 Months Ended
	Nov. 20, 2014
Earnings Per Share [Abstract]
Reverse stock split conversion ratio	0.3333

Earnings_per_shareunit_Reconci

Earnings per share/unit - Reconciliation (Details) (USD $)	3 Months Ended								12 Months Ended
In Thousands, except Share data, unless otherwise specified	Dec. 31, 2014	Sep. 30, 2014	Jun. 30, 2014	Mar. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2013	Sep. 30, 2013	Jun. 30, 2013	Mar. 31, 2013	Dec. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2013	Dec. 31, 2012
Numerator - basic and diluted earnings per share:
Income from continuing operations, net of noncontrolling interests									$47,055	$4,776	$68
Income (loss) from discontinued operations, net of noncontrolling interests									0	-453	8,353
Net income attributable to Education Realty Trust, Inc.	22,397	21,400	-8,808	12,066	1,644	-4,462	3,832	3,309	47,055	4,323	8,421
Denominator:
Basic weighted average shares of common stock outstanding									42,933,958	38,143,999	33,747,991
Diluted weighted average shares of common stock outstanding									43,277,347	38,489,866	34,105,653
Earnings per share - basic:
Income from continuing operations, net of noncontrolling interests (usd per share)									$1.10	$0.12	$0
Income (loss) from discontinued operations, net of noncontrolling interests (usd per share)									$0	($0.01)	$0.25
Net income attributable to Education Realty Trust, Inc. common stockholders per share (usd per share)	$0.47	$0.46	($0.23)	$0.31					$1.10	$0.11	$0.25
Earnings per share - diluted:
Income from continuing operations, net of noncontrolling interests (usd per share)									$1.09	$0.12	$0
Income (loss) from discontinued operations, net of noncontrolling interests (usd per share)									$0	($0.01)	$0.25
Net income attributable to Education Realty Trust, Inc. common stockholders per share (usd per share)	$0.47	$0.45	($0.23)	$0.31					$1.09	$0.11	$0.25
Distributions declared per common share (usd per share)									$1.38	$1.26	$1.02
Education Realty Operating Partnership L.P.
Numerator - basic and diluted earnings per share:
Income from continuing operations, net of noncontrolling interests									47,422	4,857	194
Income (loss) from discontinued operations, net of noncontrolling interests									0	-453	8,351
Net income attributable to Education Realty Trust, Inc.	$22,507	$21,536	($8,787)	$12,166	$1,667	($4,482)	$3,873	$3,346	$47,422	$4,404	$8,545
Denominator:
Weighted average units outstanding (shares)									128,811,547	114,431,996	101,243,974
Redeemable Operating Partnership units (shares)									822,952	830,343	865,727
Basic weighted average shares of common stock outstanding									129,634,499	115,262,339	102,109,701
Diluted weighted average shares of common stock outstanding									129,841,756	115,469,596	102,316,958
Earnings per share - basic:
Income from continuing operations, net of noncontrolling interests (usd per share)									$0.37	$0.04	$0
Income (loss) from discontinued operations, net of noncontrolling interests (usd per share)									$0	$0	$0.08
Net income attributable to Education Realty Trust, Inc. common stockholders per share (usd per share)	$0.16	$0.15	($0.07)	$0.11					$0.37	$0.04	$0.08
Earnings per share - diluted:
Income from continuing operations, net of noncontrolling interests (usd per share)									$0.37	$0.04	$0
Income (loss) from discontinued operations, net of noncontrolling interests (usd per share)									$0	$0	$0.08
Net income attributable to Education Realty Trust, Inc. common stockholders per share (usd per share)	$0.16	$0.15	($0.07)	$0.10					$0.37	$0.04	$0.08
Distributions declared per common share (usd per share)									$0.46	$0.42	$0.34
OP Units (1)
Denominator:
Total potentially dilutive securities (shares)									274,308	276,781	288,576
University Towers Operating Partnership Units (1)
Denominator:
Total potentially dilutive securities (shares)									69,081	69,086	69,086
Redeemable noncontrolling units | Education Realty Operating Partnership L.P.
Denominator:
Total potentially dilutive securities (shares)									207,257	207,257	207,257

Segments_Additional_Informatio

Segments - Additional Information (Details)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2014
	segment
Segment Reporting [Abstract]
Number of reportable segments	3

Segments_Segment_Information_D

Segments - Segment Information (Details) (USD $)	3 Months Ended								12 Months Ended
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified	Dec. 31, 2014	Sep. 30, 2014	Jun. 30, 2014	Mar. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2013	Sep. 30, 2013	Jun. 30, 2013	Mar. 31, 2013	Dec. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2013	Dec. 31, 2012
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]
Collegiate housing leasing revenue									$206,322	$167,476	$124,087
Collegiate housing leasing operations									92,649	79,957	59,524
Net operating income									23,940	24,330	15,018
Total assets, end of period	1,811,637				1,610,565				1,811,637	1,610,565	1,324,687
Third-party development consulting services									6,805	2,989	820
Third-party management services									3,959	3,697	3,446
Revenue	66,504	54,704	50,040	54,545	55,198	43,469	41,038	44,671	225,793	184,376	137,946
Operating expense reimbursements									8,707	10,214	9,593
Operating expenses									106,343	93,782	73,009
Reimbursable operating expenses									8,707	10,214	9,593
Other unallocated general and administrative expenses									-14,815	-10,544	-10,284
Depreciation and amortization									-58,974	-48,098	-33,240
Ground lease									-8,988	-7,622	-6,395
Loss on impairment of collegiate housing properties									-12,733	0	0
Interest expense									-20,656	-17,526	-14,390
Amortization of deferred financing costs									-2,156	-1,758	-1,215
Interest income									190	447	283
Loss on extinguishment of debt									-3,543	0	0
Guarantee fee income from participating development									3,000	0	0
Interest on loan to participating development									6,486	0	0
Gain on insurance settlement									8,133	0	0
Equity in losses of unconsolidated entities	-340	-236	-112	-22	-101	-61	-21	-20	-710	-203	-363
Income (loss) before income taxes, discontinued operations and gain on sale of collegiate housing properties									14,684	5,290	-667
Notes receivable	375				18,125				375	18,125
Investments in unconsolidated entities	29,450				21,175				29,450	21,175
Other assets	69,749				47,452				69,749	47,452
Collegiate Housing Leasing
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]
Collegiate housing leasing revenue									206,322	167,476	124,087
Collegiate housing leasing operations									92,649	79,957	59,524
Net operating income									113,673	87,519	64,563
Total assets, end of period	1,737,967				1,536,699				1,737,967	1,536,699	1,257,476
Development Consulting Services
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]
Net operating income									1,870	2,598	-139
Total assets, end of period	4,103				5,187				4,103	5,187	5,695
Third-party development consulting services									4,224	3,759	1,018
General and administrative									2,354	1,161	1,157
Management Services
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]
Net operating income									1,326	1,247	667
Total assets, end of period	10,693				10,135				10,693	10,135	10,218
General and administrative									2,633	2,450	2,779
Third-party management services									3,959	3,697	3,446
Operating Segments
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]
Net operating income									119,450	90,594	64,937
Total assets, end of period	1,752,763				1,552,021				1,752,763	1,552,021	1,273,389
Revenue									214,505	174,932	128,551
Operating expense reimbursements									8,707	10,214	9,593
Operating expenses									97,636	83,568	63,460
Reimbursable operating expenses									8,707	10,214	9,593
Adjustments/ Eliminations
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]
Third-party development consulting services									2,581	-770	-198
General and administrative									0	0	-44
Unallocated Corporate
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]
Cash	7,540				10,729				7,540	10,729	8,436
Notes receivable	375				18,125				375	18,125	21,000
Other receivables	2,100				1,456				2,100	1,456	0
Investments in unconsolidated entities	29,355				20,602				29,355	20,602	11,796
Deposit	0				0				0	0	3,000
Other assets	11,900				4,293				11,900	4,293	6,017
Deferred financing costs, net	$7,604				$3,339				$7,604	$3,339	$1,049

Segments_Segment_Information_R

Segments - Segment Information (References) (Details) (USD $)	12 Months Ended
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified	Dec. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2013	Dec. 31, 2012
	community
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]
Number of additional communities purchased during period	2
Number of housing communities developed in period	7
Number of housing communities sold during period	7
Goodwill	$3,100	$3,100
Management Services
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]
Goodwill	2,149	2,149	2,149
Development Consulting Services
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]
Goodwill	$921	$921	$921

Derivatives_and_hedging_activi2

Derivatives and hedging activities (Details) (USD $)	Dec. 31, 2014
In Millions, unless otherwise specified	swap
Derivative [Line Items]
Number of interest rate swaps outstanding	6
Interest rate cash flow hedge gain (loss) to be reclassified during next 12 months, net	$3.30
Interest rate derivatives, at fair value, net	4.5
Interest rate derivative liabilities, at fair value	4.7
Credit risk derivatives, at fair value, net	4.7
Interest Rate Swap
Derivative [Line Items]
Derivative, notional amount	$187.50

Derivatives_and_hedging_activi3

Derivatives and hedging activities - Schedule of Fair Value Hedging Instruments, Statements of Financial Performance and Financial Position, Location (Details) (USD $)	12 Months Ended
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified	Dec. 31, 2014
Derivative Instruments and Hedging Activities Disclosure [Abstract]
Amount of Loss Recognized in OCI on Derivative (Effective Portion)	($7,991)
Amount of Loss Reclassified from Accumulated OCI into Income (Effective Portion)	$3,526

Fair_Value_of_Financial_Instru2

Fair Value of Financial Instruments (Details) (USD $)	Dec. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2013
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified
Carrying value
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items]
Mezzanine notes receivable	$375	$18,125
Senior unsecured notes	250,000
Unsecured revolving credit facility	24,000	356,900
Carrying value | Nonrecurring
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items]
Collegiate housing properties, net	15,471
Carrying value | Recurring
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items]
Derivative financial instruments (liability position)	4,465
Deferred compensation plan assets	520
Carrying value | Variable Rate
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items]
Unsecured term loan facility	187,500
Mortgage and construction loans	107,882	193,381
Carrying value | Fixed Rate
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items]
Mortgage and construction loans	140,270	227,009
Estimated fair value | Level 1
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items]
Mezzanine notes receivable	0	0
Senior unsecured notes	0
Unsecured revolving credit facility	0	0
Estimated fair value | Level 2
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items]
Mezzanine notes receivable	318	19,330
Senior unsecured notes	234,583
Unsecured revolving credit facility	24,000	356,900
Estimated fair value | Level 3
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items]
Mezzanine notes receivable	0	0
Senior unsecured notes	0
Unsecured revolving credit facility	0	0
Estimated fair value | Nonrecurring | Level 1
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items]
Collegiate housing properties, net	0
Estimated fair value | Nonrecurring | Level 2
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items]
Collegiate housing properties, net	15,471
Estimated fair value | Nonrecurring | Level 3
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items]
Collegiate housing properties, net	0
Estimated fair value | Recurring | Level 1
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items]
Derivative financial instruments (liability position)	0
Deferred compensation plan assets	520
Estimated fair value | Recurring | Level 2
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items]
Derivative financial instruments (liability position)	4,465
Deferred compensation plan assets	0
Estimated fair value | Recurring | Level 3
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items]
Derivative financial instruments (liability position)	0
Deferred compensation plan assets	0
Estimated fair value | Variable Rate | Level 1
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items]
Unsecured term loan facility	0
Mortgage and construction loans	0	0
Estimated fair value | Variable Rate | Level 2
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items]
Unsecured term loan facility	187,500
Mortgage and construction loans	107,882	193,381
Estimated fair value | Variable Rate | Level 3
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items]
Unsecured term loan facility	0
Mortgage and construction loans	0	0
Estimated fair value | Fixed Rate | Level 1
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items]
Mortgage and construction loans	0	0
Estimated fair value | Fixed Rate | Level 2
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items]
Mortgage and construction loans	154,542	239,162
Estimated fair value | Fixed Rate | Level 3
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items]
Mortgage and construction loans	$0	$0

Lease_commitments_and_uncondit2

Lease commitments and unconditional purchase obligations - Additional Information (Details) (USD $)	12 Months Ended
In Millions, unless otherwise specified	Dec. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2013	Dec. 31, 2012
Long-term Purchase Commitment [Line Items]
Deferred accrued rental expense	$19.40	$15.90
Operating leases, expiration year	2023
Operating lease, rent expense	$0.70	$0.70	$0.80
Contracts for advertising, expiration year	2015
Minimum
Long-term Purchase Commitment [Line Items]
Ground lease period	40 years
Maximum
Long-term Purchase Commitment [Line Items]
Ground lease period	99 years
Annual increase in rent expense (percent)	3.00%

Lease_commitments_and_uncondit3

Lease commitments and unconditional purchase obligations - Future Minimum Payments Required under Advertising Contracts and Operating Leases (Details) (USD $)	Dec. 31, 2014
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified
Advertising
2015	$90
2016	2
2017	0
2018	0
2019	0
Thereafter	0
Total	92
Leases
2015	13,845
2016	11,725
2017	9,729
2018	9,066
2019	8,665
Thereafter	575,960
Total	$628,990

Employee_savings_plan_Addition

Employee savings plan - Additional Information (Details) (USD $)	12 Months Ended
In Millions, unless otherwise specified	Dec. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2013	Dec. 31, 2012
Compensation and Retirement Disclosure [Abstract]
Employee saving plan, maximum contribution as percentage of earnings	15.00%
Employee saving plan, minimum required service period	6 months
Employee saving plan, minimum required years of employee age	21 years
Employee saving plan, employer matching contribution	50.00%
Employee saving plan, employer matching contribution	3.00%
Employee saving plan, vesting period	3 years
Employee saving plan, matching contributions amount	$0.30	$0.20	$0.20

Accrued_expenses_Details

Accrued expenses (Details) (USD $)	Dec. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2013
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified
Payables and Accruals [Abstract]
Payroll	$3,765	$3,176
Real estate taxes	7,573	6,848
Interest	2,978	2,060
Utilities	1,691	1,203
Ground leases (including straight-line rent)	20,010	15,012
Construction loan guarantee	0	3,000
Assets under development	18,558	15,034
Deferred revenue related to insurance proceeds	0	5,998
Fair value of derivative liability	4,465	0
Other	15,646	13,026
Total accrued expenses	$74,686	$65,357

Commitments_and_contingencies_

Commitments and contingencies - Additional Information (Details) (USD $)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2013	Dec. 31, 2012	Jul. 14, 2010	Oct. 31, 2014	Aug. 31, 2013
Commitments and Contingencies Disclosure [Line Items]
Gain on business interruption insurance recovery	$100,000	$1,700,000	$1,200,000
Gain on insurance settlement	8,133,000	0	0
Partial Repayment Guarantee	0	3,000,000
Guarantee fee revenue	17,301,000	23,498,000
Construction debt	249,637,000	422,681,000
Line of credit facility, amount outstanding	24,000,000	356,900,000
Reimbursable predevelopment costs	1,700,000	1,600,000
Science & Technology Park at Johns Hopkins Medical Institute
Commitments and Contingencies Disclosure [Line Items]
Loan Balance				42,000,000
Guarantee fee revenue	3,000,000			3,000,000
Education Realty Operating Partnership L.P.
Commitments and Contingencies Disclosure [Line Items]
Gain on insurance settlement	8,133,000	0	0
Guarantee fee revenue	17,301,000	23,498,000
Construction debt	249,637,000	422,681,000
Line of credit facility, amount outstanding	24,000,000	356,900,000
Education Realty Operating Partnership L.P. | University Village - Greensboro
Commitments and Contingencies Disclosure [Line Items]
Ownership Percent	25.00%
Education Realty Operating Partnership L.P. | University Village - Greensboro | Joint Venture Properties
Commitments and Contingencies Disclosure [Line Items]
Loan Balance	23,643,000	23,971,000
Education Realty Operating Partnership L.P. | University Village - Greensboro | Partnership Interest Properties
Commitments and Contingencies Disclosure [Line Items]
Loan Balance	5,911,000	5,993,000
Education Realty Operating Partnership L.P. | The Marshall
Commitments and Contingencies Disclosure [Line Items]
Ownership Percent	50.00%
Education Realty Operating Partnership L.P. | The Marshall | Joint Venture Properties
Commitments and Contingencies Disclosure [Line Items]
Loan Balance	55,663,000	13,100,000
Partial Repayment Guarantee	8,767,000	8,767,000
Education Realty Operating Partnership L.P. | The Marshall | Partnership Interest Properties
Commitments and Contingencies Disclosure [Line Items]
Loan Balance	27,832,000	6,550,000
Partial Repayment Guarantee	4,384,000	4,384,000
Education Realty Operating Partnership L.P. | Georgia Heights
Commitments and Contingencies Disclosure [Line Items]
Ownership Percent	50.00%
Education Realty Operating Partnership L.P. | Georgia Heights | Joint Venture Properties
Commitments and Contingencies Disclosure [Line Items]
Partial Repayment Guarantee	7,230,000	0
Education Realty Operating Partnership L.P. | Georgia Heights | Partnership Interest Properties
Commitments and Contingencies Disclosure [Line Items]
Partial Repayment Guarantee	3,615,000	0
Operating Partnership and LeylandAlliance LLC | The Oaks on the Square Project
Commitments and Contingencies Disclosure [Line Items]
Loan Balance	46,400,000
Construction debt		43,200,000			38,000,000	13,800,000
Line of credit facility, amount outstanding	0	1,300,000
Leyland Alliance Limited Liability Company | The Oaks on the Square Project
Commitments and Contingencies Disclosure [Line Items]
Construction debt		11,800,000
Line of credit facility, amount outstanding		$1,000,000
University Towers Operating Partnership LP | Minimum
Commitments and Contingencies Disclosure [Line Items]
Ownership Percent	25.00%

Quarterly_financial_informatio2

Quarterly financial information (unaudited) (Details) (USD $)	3 Months Ended								12 Months Ended
In Thousands, except Per Share data, unless otherwise specified	Dec. 31, 2014	Sep. 30, 2014	Jun. 30, 2014	Mar. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2013	Sep. 30, 2013	Jun. 30, 2013	Mar. 31, 2013	Dec. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2013	Dec. 31, 2012
Earnings Per Share, Diluted, by Common Class, Including Two Class Method [Line Items]
Revenues	$66,504	$54,704	$50,040	$54,545	$55,198	$43,469	$41,038	$44,671	$225,793	$184,376	$137,946
Operating expenses	48,990	52,939	53,691	46,233	42,426	42,718	37,344	37,558	201,853	160,046	122,928
Nonoperating (income) expenses	8,816	-12,393	5,440	6,683	5,463	4,878	4,141	4,355	8,546	18,837	15,322
Equity in losses of unconsolidated entities	-340	-236	-112	-22	-101	-61	-21	-20	-710	-203	-363
Income taxes expense/(benefit)	-337	910	-357	45	472	-32	0	-237	261	203	-884
Noncontrolling interests	206	33	-38	398	302	-20	-143	169	599	308
Gain on sale of collegiate housing properties	13,908	8,421	0	10,902					33,231	0	0
Discontinued operations					-4,790	-326	4,157	503	0	-456	8,420
Net income attributable to Education Realty Trust, Inc.	22,397	21,400	-8,808	12,066	1,644	-4,462	3,832	3,309	47,055	4,323	8,421
Net income (loss) per share - basic (in dollars per share)	$0.47	$0.46	($0.23)	$0.31					$1.10	$0.11	$0.25
Net income (loss) per share - diluted (in dollars per share)	$0.47	$0.45	($0.23)	$0.31					$1.09	$0.11	$0.25
Net income (loss) per share-basic and diluted (usd per share)					$0.04	($0.12)	$0.10	$0.09		$0.11
Education Realty Operating Partnership L.P.
Earnings Per Share, Diluted, by Common Class, Including Two Class Method [Line Items]
Revenues									225,793	184,376	137,946
Operating expenses									201,853	160,046	122,928
Nonoperating (income) expenses									8,546	18,837	15,322
Equity in losses of unconsolidated entities									-710	-203	-363
Income taxes expense/(benefit)									261	203	-884
Gain on sale of collegiate housing properties									33,231	0	0
Discontinued operations									0	-456	8,420
Net income attributable to Education Realty Trust, Inc.	$22,507	$21,536	($8,787)	$12,166	$1,667	($4,482)	$3,873	$3,346	$47,422	$4,404	$8,545
Net income (loss) per share - basic (in dollars per share)	$0.16	$0.15	($0.07)	$0.11					$0.37	$0.04	$0.08
Net income (loss) per share - diluted (in dollars per share)	$0.16	$0.15	($0.07)	$0.10					$0.37	$0.04	$0.08
Net income (loss) per share-basic and diluted (usd per share)					$0.01	($0.04)	$0.03	$0.03	$0.37	$0.04	$0.08

Quarterly_financial_informatio3

Quarterly financial information (unaudited) (References) (Details) (USD $)	3 Months Ended
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified	Dec. 31, 2013
Quarterly Financial Information Disclosure [Abstract]
Impairment due to disposal group	$5,001

Subsequent_events_Additional_I

Subsequent events - Additional Information (Details) (USD $)	3 Months Ended	0 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2014	Feb. 13, 2015	Jan. 30, 2015
Subsequent Event [Line Items]
Distribution declared per share (usd per share)	$0.36
Education Realty Operating Partnership L.P.
Subsequent Event [Line Items]
Distribution declared per share (usd per share)	$0.12
Subsequent Event
Subsequent Event [Line Items]
Distribution declared, payable date		13-Feb-15
Distribution declared, record date			30-Jan-15