CAPELLA EDUCATION CO, 10-Q filed on 4/23/2013
Quarterly Report
Document And Entity Information
3 Months Ended
Mar. 31, 2013
Apr. 18, 2013
Document And Entity Information [Abstract]
 
 
Document Type
10-Q 
 
Amendment Flag
false 
 
Document Period End Date
Mar. 31, 2013 
 
Document Fiscal Year Focus
2013 
 
Document Fiscal Period Focus
Q1 
 
Trading Symbol
cpla 
 
Entity Registrant Name
CAPELLA EDUCATION CO 
 
Entity Central Index Key
0001104349 
 
Current Fiscal Year End Date
--12-31 
 
Entity Filer Category
Accelerated Filer 
 
Entity Common Stock, Shares Outstanding
 
12,392,860 
Consolidated Balance Sheets (USD $)
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified
Mar. 31, 2013
Dec. 31, 2012
Current Assets:
 
 
Cash and cash equivalents
$ 105,484 
$ 93,220 
Marketable securities, current
22,366 
22,279 
Accounts receivable, net of allowance of $6,026 at March 31, 2013 and $6,231 at December 31, 2012
16,679 
15,900 
Prepaid expenses and other current assets
8,834 
11,124 
Deferred income taxes
3,484 
3,481 
Total current assets
156,847 
146,004 
Property and equipment, net
43,784 
45,240 
Goodwill
16,925 
16,970 
Intangibles, net
4,204 
4,674 
Total assets
221,760 
212,888 
Current liabilities:
 
 
Accounts payable
6,229 
5,798 
Accrued liabilities
30,030 
26,392 
Deferred revenue
9,868 
9,651 
Total current liabilities
46,127 
41,841 
Deferred rent
3,561 
4,150 
Other liabilities
1,763 
6,425 
Deferred income taxes
7,948 
8,370 
Total liabilities
59,399 
60,786 
Shareholders' equity:
 
 
Common stock, $0.01 par value: Authorized shares - 100,000, issued and outstanding shares - 12,393 at March 31, 2013 and December 31, 2012
124 
124 
Additional paid-in capital
99,205 
97,716 
Accumulated other comprehensive income (loss)
92 
(22)
Retained earnings
62,940 
54,284 
Total shareholders' equity
162,361 
152,102 
Total liabilities and shareholders' equity
$ 221,760 
$ 212,888 
Consolidated Balance Sheets (Parenthetical) (USD $)
In Thousands, except Per Share data, unless otherwise specified
Mar. 31, 2013
Dec. 31, 2012
Current Assets:
 
 
Accounts receivable, allowance
$ 6,026 
$ 6,231 
Shareholders' Equity:
 
 
Common stock, par value
$ 0.01 
$ 0.01 
Common stock, authorized shares
100,000 
100,000 
Common stock, issued shares
12,393 
12,393 
Common stock, outstanding shares
12,393 
12,393 
Consolidated Statements Of Income (USD $)
In Thousands, except Per Share data, unless otherwise specified
3 Months Ended
Mar. 31, 2013
Mar. 31, 2012
Income Statement [Abstract]
 
 
Revenues
$ 105,242 
$ 109,400 
Costs and expenses:
 
 
Instructional costs and services
46,967 
48,433 
Marketing and promotional
25,501 
25,422 
Admissions advisory
6,771 
7,688 
General and administrative
10,828 
9,920 
Total costs and expenses
90,067 
91,463 
Operating income
15,175 
17,937 
Other income (expense), net
(200)
(43)
Income before income taxes
14,975 
17,894 
Income tax expense
6,220 
6,787 
Net income
8,755 
11,107 
Net loss attributable to noncontrolling interest
0 
186 
Net income attributable to Capella Education Company
$ 8,755 
$ 11,293 
Net income attributable to Capella Education Company per common share:
 
 
Basic net income attributable to Capella Education Company per common share
$ 0.71 
$ 0.82 
Diluted net income attributable to Capella Education Company per common share
$ 0.70 
$ 0.82 
Weighted average number of common shares outstanding:
 
 
Weighted average shares outstanding - Basic
12,393 
13,714 
Weighted average shares outstanding - Diluted
12,478 
13,783 
Consolidated Statements Of Comprehensive Income (USD $)
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified
3 Months Ended
Mar. 31, 2013
Mar. 31, 2012
Net income
$ 8,755 
$ 11,107 
Net loss attributable to noncontrolling interest
0 
186 
Net income attributable to Capella Education Company
8,755 
11,293 
Other comprehensive income (loss):
 
 
Foreign currency translation gain (loss)
111 
10 
Unrealized gains (losses) on available for sale securities, net of tax
3 
(101)
Comprehensive income attributable to Capella Education Company
$ 8,869 
$ 11,202 
Consolidated Statements Of Cash Flows (USD $)
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified
3 Months Ended
Mar. 31, 2013
Mar. 31, 2012
Operating activities
 
 
Net income
$ 8,755 
$ 11,107 
Adjustments to reconcile net income to net cash provided by operating activities:
 
 
Provision for bad debts
3,721 
3,509 
Depreciation and amortization
7,130 
7,221 
Amortization of investment discount/premium
116 
271 
Impairment of property and equipment
77 
956 
Loss on disposal of property and equipment
0 
50 
Share-based compensation
1,582 
1,115 
Excess tax benefits from share-based compensation
(4)
(34)
Deferred income taxes
(440)
(266)
Changes in operating assets and liabilities:
 
 
Accounts receivable
(4,517)
(2,440)
Prepaid expenses and other current assets
1,860 
3,475 
Accounts payable and accrued liabilities
(233)
(8,078)
Income tax payable
424 
3,205 
Deferred rent
(589)
(124)
Deferred revenue
261 
(108)
Net cash provided by operating activities
18,143 
19,859 
Investing activities
 
 
Capital expenditures
(5,600)
(5,580)
Proceeds from the sale of property and equipment
0 
303 
Purchases of marketable securities
(6,582)
0 
Sales and maturities of marketable securities
6,385 
19,065 
Net cash provided by (used in) investing activities
(5,797)
13,788 
Financing activities
 
 
Excess tax benefits from share-based compensation
4 
34 
Net proceeds from exercise of stock options
71 
230 
Repurchases of common stock
(132)
(12,935)
Net cash used in financing activities
(57)
(12,671)
Effect of foreign exchange rates on cash
(25)
(8)
Net increase in cash and cash equivalents
12,264 
20,968 
Cash and cash equivalents at beginning of period
93,220 
61,977 
Cash and cash equivalents at end of period
105,484 
82,945 
Supplemental disclosures of cash flow information
 
 
Income taxes paid
6,243 
3,836 
Noncash transactions:
 
 
Purchase of equipment included in accounts payable and accrued liabilities
$ 210 
$ 634 
Nature Of Business (Note)
Nature of Operations [Text Block]
Nature of Business

Capella Education Company (the Company) was incorporated on December 27, 1991, and is the parent company of its wholly owned subsidiaries, Capella University (the University), Resource Development International Limited (RDI), and Sophia Learning, LLC (Sophia). The University, founded in 1993, is an online postsecondary education services company offering a variety of bachelor's, master's and doctoral degree programs primarily delivered to working adults. The University is accredited by The Higher Learning Commission and is a member of the North Central Association of Colleges and Schools. In 2011, the Company acquired RDI, which is an independent provider of United Kingdom (UK) university distance learning qualifications and markets, develops and delivers programs worldwide via its offices and partners across Asia, North America, Africa and Europe. Sophia provides a social teaching and learning platform that integrates education with technology. On April 16, 2012, the Company acquired the remaining interest in Sophia which is now a wholly owned subsidiary as of that date. With the Company's focus on academic quality in an online delivery format, it has one reporting segment.
Summary Of Significant Accounting Policies (Note)
Summary of Significant Accounting Policies
Summary of Significant Accounting Policies

Consolidation
The consolidated financial statements include the accounts of the Company, the University, RDI and its subsidiaries, and Sophia, after elimination of intercompany accounts and transactions. RDI operates on a fiscal year ending October 31.

Unaudited Interim Financial Information
The accompanying unaudited consolidated financial statements of the Company have been prepared in accordance with accounting principles generally accepted in the United States (GAAP) for interim financial information and with the instructions to Form 10-Q and Rule 10-01 of Regulation S-X. Accordingly, they do not include all of the information and footnotes required by GAAP for complete financial statements. In the opinion of management, these statements include all adjustments (consisting of normal recurring adjustments) considered necessary to present a fair statement of the Company's consolidated results of operations, financial position and cash flows. Operating results for any interim period are not necessarily indicative of the results that may be expected for the full year. Preparation of the Company’s financial statements in conformity with GAAP requires management to make estimates and assumptions that affect the reported amounts in the financial statements and footnotes. Actual results could differ from those estimates. This Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q should be read in conjunction with the Company’s consolidated financial statements and footnotes included in its Annual Report on Form
10-K for the fiscal year ended December 31, 2012 (2012 Annual Report on Form 10-K).

Use of Estimates
The preparation of financial statements in conformity with GAAP requires management to make estimates and assumptions that affect the reported amounts in the consolidated financial statements and accompanying notes. Actual results could differ from those estimates.

Subsequent Events
The Company has reviewed and evaluated events and transactions that occurred subsequent to the balance sheet date. There have been no subsequent events that require recognition or disclosure in the financial statements.

Refer to the Company’s “Summary of Significant Accounting Policies” footnote included in its 2012 Annual Report on Form 10-K for a complete summary of the Company’s significant accounting policies.
Recent Accounting Pronouncements (Note)
Recent Accounting Pronouncements
Recent Accounting Pronouncements
 
In February 2013, the FASB issued ASU No. 2013-02, Reporting of Amounts Reclassified out of Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income, which is included in ASC 220, Comprehensive Income. This update improves the reporting of reclassifications out of accumulated other comprehensive income. The guidance is effective for the Company's interim and annual reporting periods beginning January 1, 2013, and applied prospectively. The adoption of this guidance did not have a material impact on the Company's financial condition, results of operations, or disclosures.

The Company has reviewed and considered all recent accounting pronouncements and believes there are none that could potentially have a material impact on its financial condition, results of operations, or disclosures.
Net Income Attributable To Capella Education Company Per Common Share
Earnings Per Share [Text Block]
Net Income Attributable to Capella Education Company per Common Share

Basic net income attributable to Capella Education Company per common share is based on the weighted average number of shares of common stock outstanding during the period. Dilutive shares are computed using the Treasury Stock method and include the incremental effect of shares that would be issued upon the assumed exercise of stock options and the vesting of restricted stock.
The following table presents a reconciliation of the numerator and denominator in the basic and diluted net income attributable to Capella Education Company per common share calculation, in thousands, except per share data: 
 
Three Months Ended March 31,
 
2013
 
2012
Numerator:
 
 
 
Net income attributable to Capella Education Company
$
8,755

 
$
11,293

Denominator:
 
 
 
Denominator for basic net income attributable to Capella Education Company per common share— weighted average shares outstanding
12,393

 
13,714

Effect of dilutive stock options and restricted stock
85

 
69

Denominator for diluted net income attributable to Capella Education Company per common share— weighted average shares outstanding
12,478

 
13,783

Basic net income attributable to Capella Education Company per common share
$
0.71

 
$
0.82

Diluted net income attributable to Capella Education Company per common share
$
0.70

 
$
0.82


Options to purchase 0.7 million and 0.6 million common shares were outstanding, but not included in the computation of diluted net income per common share in the three months ended March 31, 2013 and 2012, respectively, because their effect would be antidilutive.
Marketable Securities (Note)
Marketable Securities
Marketable Securities

The following is a summary of available-for-sale securities, in thousands: 
 
As of March 31, 2013
 
Amortized Cost
 
Gross Unrealized
Gains
 
Gross Unrealized (Losses)
 
Estimated Fair Value
Tax-exempt municipal securities
$
22,345

 
$
25

 
$
(4
)
 
$
22,366

Total
$
22,345

 
$
25

 
$
(4
)
 
$
22,366

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
As of December 31, 2012
 
Amortized Cost
 
Gross Unrealized
Gains
 
Gross Unrealized (Losses)
 
Estimated Fair Value
Tax-exempt municipal securities
$
22,263

 
$
25

 
$
(9
)
 
$
22,279

Total
$
22,263

 
$
25

 
$
(9
)
 
$
22,279



The unrealized gains and losses on the Company’s investments in municipal securities as of March 31, 2013 and December 31, 2012 were caused by changes in market values primarily due to interest rate changes. All of the Company's securities in an unrealized loss position as of March 31, 2013 had been in an unrealized loss position for less than twelve months. The Company intends to hold these securities until maturity and the possibility that the Company will be required to sell these securities prior to the recovery of their amortized cost basis is remote. No other-than-temporary impairment charges were recorded during the three months ended March 31, 2013 and 2012.
The following table summarizes the remaining contractual maturities of the Company’s marketable securities, in thousands: 
 
As of March 31, 2013
 
As of December 31, 2012
Due within one year
$
4,188

 
$
7,929

Due after one year through five years
18,178

 
14,350

Total
$
22,366

 
$
22,279



The following table summarizes the proceeds from the maturities of available-for-sale securities, in thousands: 
 
Three Months Ended March 31,
 
2013
 
2012
Maturities of tax-exempt marketable securities
$
6,385

 
$
19,065

Total
$
6,385

 
$
19,065



The Company did not record any gross realized gains or gross realized losses in net income during the three months ended March 31, 2013 and 2012. Additionally, there were no proceeds from the sales of marketable securities during the three months ended March 31, 2013 and 2012.
Fair Value Measurements
Fair Value Disclosures [Text Block]
Fair Value Measurements

The following tables summarize certain information for assets and liabilities measured at fair value on a recurring basis, in thousands: 
 
 
Fair Value Measurements as of March 31, 2013 Using
Description
 
Fair Value
 
Quoted Prices in
Active Markets
for Identical
Assets
(Level 1)
 
Significant Other
Observable Inputs
(Level 2)
 
Significant
Unobservable
Inputs
(Level 3)
Assets:
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Cash and cash equivalents:
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Cash
 
$
47,695

 
$
47,695

 
$
—

 
$
—

Money market funds
 
34,534

 
34,534

 
—

 
—

Variable rate demand notes
 
23,255

 
23,255

 
—

 
—

Marketable securities:
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Tax-exempt municipal securities
 
22,366

 
—

 
22,366

 
—

Total assets at fair value on a recurring basis:
 
$
127,850

 
$
105,484

 
$
22,366

 
$
—

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Liabilities:
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Accrued liabilities:
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
RDI contingent consideration
 
$
6,306

 
$
—

 
$
—

 
$
6,306

Total liabilities at fair value on a recurring basis:
 
$
6,306

 
$
—

 
$
—

 
$
6,306


 
 
Fair Value Measurements as of December 31, 2012 Using
Description
 
Fair Value
 
Quoted Prices in
Active Markets
for Identical
Assets
(Level 1)
 
Significant Other
Observable Inputs
(Level 2)
 
Significant
Unobservable
Inputs
(Level 3)
Assets:
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Cash and cash equivalents:
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Cash
 
$
21,122

 
$
21,122

 
$
—

 
$
—

Money market funds
 
643

 
643

 
—

 
—

Variable rate demand notes
 
71,455

 
71,455

 
—

 
—

Marketable securities:
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Tax-exempt municipal securities
 
22,279

 
—

 
22,279

 
—

Total assets at fair value on a recurring basis:
 
$
115,499

 
$
93,220

 
$
22,279

 
$
—

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Liabilities:
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Other liabilities:
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
RDI contingent consideration
 
$
6,252

 
$
—

 
$
—

 
$
6,252

Total liabilities at fair value on a recurring basis:
 
$
6,252

 
$
—

 
$
—

 
$
6,252



The Company measures cash and cash equivalents at fair value primarily using real-time quotes for transactions in active exchange markets involving identical assets. The Company’s marketable securities are classified within Level 2 and are valued using readily available pricing sources for comparable instruments utilizing market observable inputs. The Company does not hold securities in inactive markets. The Company did not have any transfers of assets between Level 1 and Level 2 of the fair value measurement hierarchy during the three months ended March 31, 2013 and 2012.

Level 3 Measurements

RDI Contingent Consideration

In connection with the acquisition of RDI, the Company is required to make an additional payment contingent on whether RDI is awarded Taught Degree Awarding Powers (TDAP) by the British government. Refer to Note 14 of the Company's 2012 Annual Report on Form 10-K for additional details regarding the acquisition of RDI. As the contingent consideration is classified as a liability, ASC 805 Business Combinations (ASC 805) requires that the Company re-measure the liability at fair value at each reporting date until it is extinguished. As such, the Company classified the RDI contingent consideration liability within Level 3 of the fair value measurement hierarchy.

The fair value of the RDI contingent consideration as of March 31, 2013 was determined using the discounted cash flow approach and was based on the present value of the probability-weighted expected cash flows based on the Company's estimates of the timing and probability of RDI being awarded TDAP. The discount rate reflects the risk of a market participant who holds the corresponding asset. To estimate the discount rate, the Company considered the market participant weighted average cost of capital of the business risk associated with RDI being awarded TDAP. The discount rate was then adjusted to incorporate risk-free rates and costs of debt for a term commensurate with the term in which the payment is expected to be made, as well as the low probability risk of the contingent consideration payments not being made.

The fair value measurement of the RDI contingent consideration encompasses the following significant unobservable inputs:
Unobservable Inputs
 
Range
Weighted average cost of capital
 
5%
Timing of cash flows
 
0 - 27 months
Probability of TDAP achievement
 
100%


Significant increases or decreases in any of the unobservable inputs in isolation would result in a lower or higher fair value measurement of the RDI contingent consideration. An increase in the weighted average cost of capital would result in a decrease in the fair value, an acceleration of the timing of cash flows would increase the fair value, and a decrease in the probability that TDAP will be achieved would reduce the fair value. Reasonable changes in the unobservable inputs do not result in a material change in the fair value.

The following table presents a reconciliation of the fair value of the RDI contingent consideration, in thousands:
Balance, December 31, 2012
 
$
6,252

Accretion of RDI contingent consideration liability
 
54

Balance, March 31, 2013
 
$
6,306



The increase in the fair value of the RDI contingent consideration liability was recorded in other income (expense), net in the consolidated statements of income during the three months ended March 31, 2013 and 2012. The fair value of the RDI contingent consideration liability was recorded in accrued liabilities and other liabilities in the consolidated balance sheets as of March 31, 2013 and December 31, 2012, respectively.
Accrued Liabilities (Note)
Accrued Liabilities
Accrued Liabilities

Accrued liabilities consist of the following, in thousands: 
 
As of March 31, 2013
 
As of December 31, 2012
Accrued compensation and benefits
$
5,332

 
$
9,165

Accrued instructional
5,533

 
6,172

Accrued vacation
1,613

 
1,112

RDI contingent consideration
6,306

 
—

Other
11,246

 
9,943

Total
$
30,030

 
$
26,392



“Other” in the table above consists primarily of vendor invoices accrued in the normal course of business.
Commitments And Contingencies (Note)
Commitments And Contingencies Disclosure [Text Block]
Commitments and Contingencies

Operating Leases
The Company leases its office facilities and certain office equipment under various noncancelable operating leases and has contractual obligations related to certain software license agreements. Effective August 29, 2011, the Company entered into an amendment of its lease with Minneapolis 225 Holdings, LLC pursuant to which the Company renewed and extended its existing lease for premises at 225 South Sixth Street in Minneapolis, Minnesota through 2018. Renewal terms under this lease allow the Company to extend the lease for up to two additional five-year terms.

The following presents the Company's future minimum lease commitments as of March 31, 2013, in thousands:
 
2013
$
4,918

2014
6,471

2015
6,516

2016
6,552

2017
6,690

2018 and thereafter
5,596

Total
$
36,743



The Company recognizes rent expense on a straight-line basis over the term of the lease, although the lease may include escalation clauses providing for lower payments at the beginning of the lease term and higher payments at the end of the lease term. Cash or lease incentives received from lessors are recognized on a straight-line basis as a reduction to rent from the date the Company takes possession of the property through the end of the lease term. The Company records the unamortized portion of the incentive as a component of deferred rent, in accrued liabilities or long-term liabilities, as appropriate.

On January 4, 2012, RDI entered into an agreement to assign its lease in the UK to Glasgow Caledonian University (GCU) for the remainder of the lease term. Under the terms of the agreement, GCU covenants to the Lessor that it will pay the remaining rents under the lease term. However, the Lessor required that RDI act as guarantor for GCU in the event GCU defaults under the lease. The Company believes default by GCU under the lease, and therefore any future payment by RDI under this arrangement, is remote.  

Revolving Credit Facility
On September 30, 2011, the Company entered into an unsecured revolving credit agreement (the Credit Agreement) with Bank of America, N.A., and certain other lenders. The Credit Agreement provides $100.0 million of borrowing capacity (the credit facility), with an increase option of an additional $50.0 million. The Credit Agreement expires on September 30, 2016.

Borrowings under the Credit Agreement bear interest at a rate equal to LIBOR plus an applicable rate of 1.75% to 2.25% based on the Company’s consolidated leverage ratio or, at the Company’s option, an alternative base rate (defined as the higher of (a) the federal funds rate plus 0.5%, (b) Bank of America’s prime rate, or (c) the one-month LIBOR plus 1.0%) plus an applicable rate of 0.75% to 1.25% based on the Company’s consolidated leverage ratio. The Credit Agreement requires payment of a commitment fee, based on the Company’s consolidated leverage ratio, charged on the unused credit facility. Outstanding letters of credit are also charged a fee, based on the Company’s consolidated leverage ratio. The Company capitalized approximately $0.5 million of debt issuance costs related to the credit facility, which are being amortized on a straight-line basis over a period of five years. Interest expense for the amortization of debt issuance costs is recorded in other income (expense), net.

The Credit Agreement contains certain covenants that, among other things, require maintenance of certain financial ratios, as defined in the agreement. Failure to comply with the covenants contained in the Credit Agreement will constitute an event of default and could result in termination of the agreement and require payment of all outstanding borrowings. As of March 31, 2013, there were no borrowings under the credit facility and the Company was in compliance with all debt covenants.

Litigation
In the ordinary conduct of business, the Company is subject to various lawsuits and claims covering a wide range of matters including, but not limited to, claims involving learners or graduates and routine employment matters. While the outcome of these matters is uncertain, the Company does not believe the outcome of these matters will have a material adverse impact on its consolidated financial position or results of operations.
Share Repurchase Program (Note)
Share Repurchase Program
Share Repurchase Program

The Company announced its current share repurchase program in July 2008. The Board of Directors authorizes repurchases of outstanding shares of common stock from time to time depending on market conditions and other considerations. A summary of the Company’s comprehensive share repurchase activity from the program's commencement through March 31, 2013, all of which was part of its publicly announced program, is presented below, in thousands: 
Board authorizations:
 
July 2008
$
60,000

August 2010
60,662

February 2011
65,000

December 2011
50,000

Total amount authorized
235,662

Total value of shares repurchased
227,517

Residual authorization
$
8,145



During the three months ended March 31, 2013, the Company repurchased approximately four thousand shares for total consideration of $0.1 million, excluding commissions. The Company repurchased 0.3 million shares for total consideration of $12.9 million, excluding commissions, during the three months ended March 31, 2012. As of March 31, 2013, the Company had purchased an aggregate of 5.2 million shares under the program’s outstanding authorizations at an average price per share of $43.77 totaling $227.5 million.
Acquisitions (Note)
Acquisitions
Acquisitions

Sophia Learning, LLC
The Company acquired a majority ownership interest in Sophia in 2010. The equity interest in Sophia not owned by the Company was reported as noncontrolling interest on the consolidated balance sheet of the Company. Losses incurred by Sophia were charged to the Company and to the noncontrolling interest holder based on ownership percentage. There was a put option within the Sophia Learning, LLC agreement which permitted the noncontrolling interest to put its shares to the Company within a specified time period. Since these shares were outside the control of the Company, the noncontrolling interest was considered contingently redeemable and thus was presented in mezzanine equity in the consolidated balance sheet.

On April 16, 2012, the Company acquired the remaining interest in Sophia for approximately $1.6 million in an arms-length transaction. The Company began accounting for Sophia as a wholly owned subsidiary beginning in the second quarter of 2012 when the noncontrolling interests were acquired.
Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Note)
Comprehensive Income (Loss) Note [Text Block]
Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income

The following table summarizes the components of accumulated other comprehensive income, in thousands:
 
Foreign Currency Translation (Loss) Gain
 
Unrealized Gains on Marketable Securities
 
Accumulated Other Comprehensive (Loss) Income (1)
Beginning balance, December 31, 2012
$
(32
)
 
$
10

 
$
(22
)
Current period change
111

 
3

 
114

Ending balance, March 31, 2013
$
79

 
$
13

 
$
92


(1)
Accumulated other comprehensive (loss) income is presented net of $8 thousand and $6 thousand of taxes as of March 31, 2013, and December 31, 2012, respectively.
Regulatory Supervision And Oversight (Note)
Regulatory Supervision And Oversight
Regulatory Supervision and Oversight

Political and budgetary concerns significantly affect the Title IV Programs. Congress reauthorizes the Higher Education Act (HEA) and other laws governing Title IV Programs approximately every five to eight years. The last reauthorization of the HEA was completed in August 2008. Additionally, Congress reviews and determines appropriations for Title IV programs on an annual basis through the budget and appropriations processes. As of March 31, 2013, programs in which the University's learners participate are operative and sufficiently funded.
Summary Of Significant Accounting Policies (Policy)
Consolidation 
Consolidation
The consolidated financial statements include the accounts of the Company, the University, RDI and its subsidiaries, and Sophia, after elimination of intercompany accounts and transactions. RDI operates on a fiscal year ending October 31.
Unaudited Interim Financial Information 
Unaudited Interim Financial Information
The accompanying unaudited consolidated financial statements of the Company have been prepared in accordance with accounting principles generally accepted in the United States (GAAP) for interim financial information and with the instructions to Form 10-Q and Rule 10-01 of Regulation S-X. Accordingly, they do not include all of the information and footnotes required by GAAP for complete financial statements. In the opinion of management, these statements include all adjustments (consisting of normal recurring adjustments) considered necessary to present a fair statement of the Company's consolidated results of operations, financial position and cash flows. Operating results for any interim period are not necessarily indicative of the results that may be expected for the full year. Preparation of the Company’s financial statements in conformity with GAAP requires management to make estimates and assumptions that affect the reported amounts in the financial statements and footnotes. Actual results could differ from those estimates. This Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q should be read in conjunction with the Company’s consolidated financial statements and footnotes included in its Annual Report on Form
10-K for the fiscal year ended December 31, 2012 (2012 Annual Report on Form 10-K).
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 in the consolidated financial statements and accompanying notes. Actual results could differ from those estimates.
Subsequent Events 
Subsequent Events
The Company has reviewed and evaluated events and transactions that occurred subsequent to the balance sheet date. There have been no subsequent events that require recognition or disclosure in the financial statements.

Refer to the Company’s “Summary of Significant Accounting Policies” footnote included in its 2012 Annual Report on Form 10-K for a complete summary of the Company’s significant accounting policies.
Net Income Attributable To Capella Education Company Per Common Share (Tables)
Schedule of Calculation of Numerator and Denominator in Earnings Per Share [Table Text Block]
The following table presents a reconciliation of the numerator and denominator in the basic and diluted net income attributable to Capella Education Company per common share calculation, in thousands, except per share data: 
 
Three Months Ended March 31,
 
2013
 
2012
Numerator:
 
 
 
Net income attributable to Capella Education Company
$
8,755

 
$
11,293

Denominator:
 
 
 
Denominator for basic net income attributable to Capella Education Company per common share— weighted average shares outstanding
12,393

 
13,714

Effect of dilutive stock options and restricted stock
85

 
69

Denominator for diluted net income attributable to Capella Education Company per common share— weighted average shares outstanding
12,478

 
13,783

Basic net income attributable to Capella Education Company per common share
$
0.71

 
$
0.82

Diluted net income attributable to Capella Education Company per common share
$
0.70

 
$
0.82

Marketable Securities (Tables)
Summary Of Available-For-Sale Securities 
The following is a summary of available-for-sale securities, in thousands: 
 
As of March 31, 2013
 
Amortized Cost
 
Gross Unrealized
Gains
 
Gross Unrealized (Losses)
 
Estimated Fair Value
Tax-exempt municipal securities
$
22,345

 
$
25

 
$
(4
)
 
$
22,366

Total
$
22,345

 
$
25

 
$
(4
)
 
$
22,366

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
As of December 31, 2012
 
Amortized Cost
 
Gross Unrealized
Gains
 
Gross Unrealized (Losses)
 
Estimated Fair Value
Tax-exempt municipal securities
$
22,263

 
$
25

 
$
(9
)
 
$
22,279

Total
$
22,263

 
$
25

 
$
(9
)
 
$
22,279

Summary Of Remaining Contractual Maturities Of Marketable Securities 
The following table summarizes the remaining contractual maturities of the Company’s marketable securities, in thousands: 
 
As of March 31, 2013
 
As of December 31, 2012
Due within one year
$
4,188

 
$
7,929

Due after one year through five years
18,178

 
14,350

Total
$
22,366

 
$
22,279

Proceeds From The Sale And Maturities Of Available-For-Sale Securities 
The following table summarizes the proceeds from the maturities of available-for-sale securities, in thousands: 
 
Three Months Ended March 31,
 
2013
 
2012
Maturities of tax-exempt marketable securities
$
6,385

 
$
19,065

Total
$
6,385

 
$
19,065

Fair Value Measurements Fair Value Measurements (Tables)
3 Months Ended 12 Months Ended
Mar. 31, 2013
Dec. 31, 2012
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Abstract]
 
 
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Table Text Block]
Text Block 
Text Block 
Fair Value Inputs, Liabilities, Quantitative Information [Table Text Block]
Text Block 
 
Fair Value, Liabilities Measured on Recurring Basis, Unobservable Input Reconciliation [Table Text Block]
Text Block 
 
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Table Text Block] 
The following tables summarize certain information for assets and liabilities measured at fair value on a recurring basis, in thousands: 
 
 
Fair Value Measurements as of March 31, 2013 Using
Description
 
Fair Value
 
Quoted Prices in
Active Markets
for Identical
Assets
(Level 1)
 
Significant Other
Observable Inputs
(Level 2)
 
Significant
Unobservable
Inputs
(Level 3)
Assets:
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Cash and cash equivalents:
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Cash
 
$
47,695

 
$
47,695

 
$
—

 
$
—

Money market funds
 
34,534

 
34,534

 
—

 
—

Variable rate demand notes
 
23,255

 
23,255

 
—

 
—

Marketable securities:
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Tax-exempt municipal securities
 
22,366

 
—

 
22,366

 
—

Total assets at fair value on a recurring basis:
 
$
127,850

 
$
105,484

 
$
22,366

 
$
—

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Liabilities:
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Accrued liabilities:
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
RDI contingent consideration
 
$
6,306

 
$
—

 
$
—

 
$
6,306

Total liabilities at fair value on a recurring basis:
 
$
6,306

 
$
—

 
$
—

 
$
6,306

Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Table Text Block] 
 
 
Fair Value Measurements as of December 31, 2012 Using
Description
 
Fair Value
 
Quoted Prices in
Active Markets
for Identical
Assets
(Level 1)
 
Significant Other
Observable Inputs
(Level 2)
 
Significant
Unobservable
Inputs
(Level 3)
Assets:
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Cash and cash equivalents:
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Cash
 
$
21,122

 
$
21,122

 
$
—

 
$
—

Money market funds
 
643

 
643

 
—

 
—

Variable rate demand notes
 
71,455

 
71,455

 
—

 
—

Marketable securities:
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Tax-exempt municipal securities
 
22,279

 
—

 
22,279

 
—

Total assets at fair value on a recurring basis:
 
$
115,499

 
$
93,220

 
$
22,279

 
$
—

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Liabilities:
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Other liabilities:
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
RDI contingent consideration
 
$
6,252

 
$
—

 
$
—

 
$
6,252

Total liabilities at fair value on a recurring basis:
 
$
6,252

 
$
—

 
$
—

 
$
6,252

Fair Value Inputs, Liabilities, Quantitative Information [Table Text Block] 
The fair value measurement of the RDI contingent consideration encompasses the following significant unobservable inputs:
Unobservable Inputs
 
Range
Weighted average cost of capital
 
5%
Timing of cash flows
 
0 - 27 months
Probability of TDAP achievement
 
100%
Fair Value, Liabilities Measured on Recurring Basis, Unobservable Input Reconciliation [Table Text Block] 
The following table presents a reconciliation of the fair value of the RDI contingent consideration, in thousands:
Balance, December 31, 2012
 
$
6,252

Accretion of RDI contingent consideration liability
 
54

Balance, March 31, 2013
 
$
6,306

Accrued Liabilities (Tables)
Schedule Of Accrued Liabilities [Table Text Block]
Accrued liabilities consist of the following, in thousands: 
 
As of March 31, 2013
 
As of December 31, 2012
Accrued compensation and benefits
$
5,332

 
$
9,165

Accrued instructional
5,533

 
6,172

Accrued vacation
1,613

 
1,112

RDI contingent consideration
6,306

 
—

Other
11,246

 
9,943

Total
$
30,030

 
$
26,392

Commitments And Contingencies (Tables)
Schedule of Future Minimum Rental Payments for Operating Leases [Table Text Block]
future minimum lease commitments as of March 31, 2013, in thousands:
 
2013
$
4,918

2014
6,471

2015
6,516

2016
6,552

2017
6,690

2018 and thereafter
5,596

Total
$
36,743

Share Repurchase Program (Tables)
Schedule Of Comprehensive Stock Repurchase Activity
A summary of the Company’s comprehensive share repurchase activity from the program's commencement through March 31, 2013, all of which was part of its publicly announced program, is presented below, in thousands: 
Board authorizations:
 
July 2008
$
60,000

August 2010
60,662

February 2011
65,000

December 2011
50,000

Total amount authorized
235,662

Total value of shares repurchased
227,517

Residual authorization
$
8,145

Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Tables)
Schedule of Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss) [Table Text Block]
The following table summarizes the components of accumulated other comprehensive income, in thousands:
 
Foreign Currency Translation (Loss) Gain
 
Unrealized Gains on Marketable Securities
 
Accumulated Other Comprehensive (Loss) Income (1)
Beginning balance, December 31, 2012
$
(32
)
 
$
10

 
$
(22
)
Current period change
111

 
3

 
114

Ending balance, March 31, 2013
$
79

 
$
13

 
$
92


(1)
Accumulated other comprehensive (loss) income is presented net of $8 thousand and $6 thousand of taxes as of March 31, 2013, and December 31, 2012, respectively.
Nature Of Business Nature of Business (Details)
3 Months Ended
Jun. 30, 2012
Nature Of Business [Abstract]
 
Noncontrolling Interest Acquisition Date
4/16/2012 
Net Income Attributable To Capella Education Company Per Common Share (Details) (USD $)
In Thousands, except Share data, unless otherwise specified
3 Months Ended
Mar. 31, 2013
Mar. 31, 2012
Numerator:
 
 
Net income attributable to Capella Education Company
$ 8,755 
$ 11,293 
Denominator:
 
 
Weighted average shares outstanding - Basic
12,393,000 
13,714,000 
Effect of dilutive stock options and restricted stock
85,000 
69,000 
Weighted average shares outstanding - Diluted
12,478,000 
13,783,000 
Basic net income attributable to Capella Education Company per common share
$ 0.71 
$ 0.82 
Diluted net income attributable to Capella Education Company per common share
$ 0.70 
$ 0.82 
Antidilutive Securities Excluded from Computation of Earnings Per Share, Amount
700,000 
600,000 
Marketable Securities (Summary Of Available-For-Sale Securities) (Details) (USD $)
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified
Mar. 31, 2013
Dec. 31, 2012
Schedule of Available-for-sale Securities [Line Items]
 
 
Available-for-sale securities, amortized cost
$ 22,345 
$ 22,263 
Available-for-sale securities, gross unrealized gains
25 
25 
Available-for-sale securities, gross unrealized losses
(4)
(9)
Marketable securities, current
22,366 
22,279 
Tax-Exempt Municipal Securities [Member]
 
 
Schedule of Available-for-sale Securities [Line Items]
 
 
Available-for-sale securities, amortized cost
22,345 
22,263 
Available-for-sale securities, gross unrealized gains
25 
25 
Available-for-sale securities, gross unrealized losses
(4)
(9)
Marketable securities, current
$ 22,366 
$ 22,279 
Marketable Securities (Summary Of Remaining Contractual Maturities Of Marketable Securities) (Details) (USD $)
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified
Mar. 31, 2013
Dec. 31, 2012
Marketable Securities [Abstract]
 
 
Due within one year
$ 4,188 
$ 7,929 
Due after one year through five years
18,178 
14,350 
Marketable securities, current
$ 22,366 
$ 22,279 
Marketable Securities (Proceeds From The Sale And Maturities Of Available-For-Sale Securities) (Details) (USD $)
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified
3 Months Ended
Mar. 31, 2013
Mar. 31, 2012
Marketable Securities [Abstract]
 
 
Maturities of available-for-sale securities
$ 6,385 
$ 19,065 
Total
$ 6,385 
$ 19,065 
Marketable Securities (Narrative) (Details) (USD $)
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified
3 Months Ended
Mar. 31, 2013
Mar. 31, 2012
Marketable Securities [Abstract]
 
 
Other-than-temporary impairment charges
$ 0 
$ 0 
Gross realized gains
0 
0 
Gross realized losses
0 
0 
Proceeds from sales of available-for-sale securities
$ 0 
$ 0 
Fair Value Measurements Fair Value Measurements (Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis) (Details) (USD $)
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified
Mar. 31, 2013
Mar. 31, 2012
Mar. 31, 2013
Fair Value, Measurements, Recurring [Member]
Estimate of Fair Value, Fair Value Disclosure [Member]
Dec. 31, 2012
Fair Value, Measurements, Recurring [Member]
Estimate of Fair Value, Fair Value Disclosure [Member]
Mar. 31, 2013
Fair Value, Measurements, Recurring [Member]
Fair Value, Inputs, Level 1 [Member]
Dec. 31, 2012
Fair Value, Measurements, Recurring [Member]
Fair Value, Inputs, Level 1 [Member]
Mar. 31, 2013
Fair Value, Measurements, Recurring [Member]
Fair Value, Inputs, Level 2 [Member]
Dec. 31, 2012
Fair Value, Measurements, Recurring [Member]
Fair Value, Inputs, Level 2 [Member]
Mar. 31, 2013
Fair Value, Measurements, Recurring [Member]
Fair Value, Inputs, Level 3 [Member]
Dec. 31, 2012
Fair Value, Measurements, Recurring [Member]
Fair Value, Inputs, Level 3 [Member]
Mar. 31, 2013
Cash [Member]
Fair Value, Measurements, Recurring [Member]
Estimate of Fair Value, Fair Value Disclosure [Member]
Dec. 31, 2012
Cash [Member]
Fair Value, Measurements, Recurring [Member]
Estimate of Fair Value, Fair Value Disclosure [Member]
Mar. 31, 2013
Cash [Member]
Fair Value, Measurements, Recurring [Member]
Fair Value, Inputs, Level 1 [Member]
Dec. 31, 2012
Cash [Member]
Fair Value, Measurements, Recurring [Member]
Fair Value, Inputs, Level 1 [Member]
Mar. 31, 2013
Cash [Member]
Fair Value, Measurements, Recurring [Member]
Fair Value, Inputs, Level 2 [Member]
Dec. 31, 2012
Cash [Member]
Fair Value, Measurements, Recurring [Member]
Fair Value, Inputs, Level 2 [Member]
Mar. 31, 2013
Cash [Member]
Fair Value, Measurements, Recurring [Member]
Fair Value, Inputs, Level 3 [Member]
Dec. 31, 2012
Cash [Member]
Fair Value, Measurements, Recurring [Member]
Fair Value, Inputs, Level 3 [Member]
Mar. 31, 2013
Money Market Funds [Member]
Fair Value, Measurements, Recurring [Member]
Estimate of Fair Value, Fair Value Disclosure [Member]
Dec. 31, 2012
Money Market Funds [Member]
Fair Value, Measurements, Recurring [Member]
Estimate of Fair Value, Fair Value Disclosure [Member]
Mar. 31, 2013
Money Market Funds [Member]
Fair Value, Measurements, Recurring [Member]
Fair Value, Inputs, Level 1 [Member]
Dec. 31, 2012
Money Market Funds [Member]
Fair Value, Measurements, Recurring [Member]
Fair Value, Inputs, Level 1 [Member]
Mar. 31, 2013
Money Market Funds [Member]
Fair Value, Measurements, Recurring [Member]
Fair Value, Inputs, Level 2 [Member]
Dec. 31, 2012
Money Market Funds [Member]
Fair Value, Measurements, Recurring [Member]
Fair Value, Inputs, Level 2 [Member]
Mar. 31, 2013
Money Market Funds [Member]
Fair Value, Measurements, Recurring [Member]
Fair Value, Inputs, Level 3 [Member]
Dec. 31, 2012
Money Market Funds [Member]
Fair Value, Measurements, Recurring [Member]
Fair Value, Inputs, Level 3 [Member]
Mar. 31, 2013
Interest-bearing Deposits [Member]
Fair Value, Measurements, Recurring [Member]
Estimate of Fair Value, Fair Value Disclosure [Member]
Dec. 31, 2012
Interest-bearing Deposits [Member]
Fair Value, Measurements, Recurring [Member]
Estimate of Fair Value, Fair Value Disclosure [Member]
Mar. 31, 2013
Interest-bearing Deposits [Member]
Fair Value, Measurements, Recurring [Member]
Fair Value, Inputs, Level 1 [Member]
Dec. 31, 2012
Interest-bearing Deposits [Member]
Fair Value, Measurements, Recurring [Member]
Fair Value, Inputs, Level 1 [Member]
Mar. 31, 2013
Interest-bearing Deposits [Member]
Fair Value, Measurements, Recurring [Member]
Fair Value, Inputs, Level 2 [Member]
Dec. 31, 2012
Interest-bearing Deposits [Member]
Fair Value, Measurements, Recurring [Member]
Fair Value, Inputs, Level 2 [Member]
Mar. 31, 2013
Interest-bearing Deposits [Member]
Fair Value, Measurements, Recurring [Member]
Fair Value, Inputs, Level 3 [Member]
Dec. 31, 2012
Interest-bearing Deposits [Member]
Fair Value, Measurements, Recurring [Member]
Fair Value, Inputs, Level 3 [Member]
Mar. 31, 2013
Tax-Exempt Municipal Securities [Member]
Fair Value, Measurements, Recurring [Member]
Estimate of Fair Value, Fair Value Disclosure [Member]
Dec. 31, 2012
Tax-Exempt Municipal Securities [Member]
Fair Value, Measurements, Recurring [Member]
Estimate of Fair Value, Fair Value Disclosure [Member]
Mar. 31, 2013
Tax-Exempt Municipal Securities [Member]
Fair Value, Measurements, Recurring [Member]
Fair Value, Inputs, Level 1 [Member]
Dec. 31, 2012
Tax-Exempt Municipal Securities [Member]
Fair Value, Measurements, Recurring [Member]
Fair Value, Inputs, Level 1 [Member]
Mar. 31, 2013
Tax-Exempt Municipal Securities [Member]
Fair Value, Measurements, Recurring [Member]
Fair Value, Inputs, Level 3 [Member]
Dec. 31, 2012
Tax-Exempt Municipal Securities [Member]
Fair Value, Measurements, Recurring [Member]
Fair Value, Inputs, Level 3 [Member]
Mar. 31, 2013
RDI Contingent Consideration [Member]
Fair Value, Measurements, Recurring [Member]
Estimate of Fair Value, Fair Value Disclosure [Member]
Dec. 31, 2012
RDI Contingent Consideration [Member]
Fair Value, Measurements, Recurring [Member]
Estimate of Fair Value, Fair Value Disclosure [Member]
Mar. 31, 2013
RDI Contingent Consideration [Member]
Fair Value, Measurements, Recurring [Member]
Fair Value, Inputs, Level 1 [Member]
Dec. 31, 2012
RDI Contingent Consideration [Member]
Fair Value, Measurements, Recurring [Member]
Fair Value, Inputs, Level 1 [Member]
Mar. 31, 2013
RDI Contingent Consideration [Member]
Fair Value, Measurements, Recurring [Member]
Fair Value, Inputs, Level 2 [Member]
Dec. 31, 2012
RDI Contingent Consideration [Member]
Fair Value, Measurements, Recurring [Member]
Fair Value, Inputs, Level 2 [Member]
Mar. 31, 2013
RDI Contingent Consideration [Member]
Fair Value, Measurements, Recurring [Member]
Fair Value, Inputs, Level 3 [Member]
Dec. 31, 2012
RDI Contingent Consideration [Member]
Fair Value, Measurements, Recurring [Member]
Fair Value, Inputs, Level 3 [Member]
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items]
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Cash and Cash Equivalents, Fair Value Disclosure
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
$ 47,695 
$ 21,122 
$ 47,695 
$ 21,122 
$ 0 
$ 0 
$ 0 
$ 0 
$ 34,534 
$ 643 
$ 34,534 
$ 643 
$ 0 
$ 0 
$ 0 
$ 0 
$ 23,255 
$ 71,455 
$ 23,255 
$ 71,455 
$ 0 
$ 0 
$ 0 
$ 0 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Available-for-sale Securities, Fair Value Disclosure
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
22,366 
22,279 
0 
0 
0 
0 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Assets, Fair Value Disclosure
 
 
127,850 
115,499 
105,484 
93,220 
22,366 
22,279 
0 
0 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Other Liabilities, Fair Value Disclosure
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
6,252 
 
0 
 
0 
 
6,252 
Accrued Liabilities, Fair Value Disclosure
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
6,306 
 
0 
 
0 
 
6,306 
 
Liabilities, Fair Value Disclosure
 
 
6,306 
6,252 
0 
0 
0 
0 
6,306 
6,252 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Fair Value, Assets, Level 2 to Level 1 Transfers, Amount
$ 0 
$ 0 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Fair Value Measurements Fair Value Measurements (Fair Value, Liabilities Measured on Recurring Basis, Unobservable Input Reconciliation) (Details) (RDI Contingent Consideration [Member], USD $)
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified
3 Months Ended
Mar. 31, 2013
RDI Contingent Consideration [Member]
 
Fair Value, Liabilities Measured on Recurring Basis, Unobservable Input Reconciliation [Line Items]
 
Fair Value, Measurement with Unobservable Inputs Reconciliation, Recurring Basis, Liability Value, Beginning Balance
$ 6,252 
Fair Value, Measurement with Unobservable Inputs Reconciliation, Recurring Basis, Liability, Gain (Loss) Included in Earnings
54 
Fair Value, Measurement with Unobservable Inputs Reconciliation, Recurring Basis, Liability Value, Ending Balance
$ 6,306 
Fair Value Measurements Fair Value Measurements (Fair Value Inputs, Liabilities, Quantitative Information) (Details) (Income Approach Valuation Technique [Member], Fair Value, Inputs, Level 3 [Member], RDI Contingent Consideration [Member])
3 Months Ended
Mar. 31, 2013
Fair Value Inputs, Liabilities, Quantitative Information [Line Items]
 
Fair Value Inputs, Discount Rate
5.00% 
Fair Value Inputs, Probability of TDAP Achievement
100.00% 
Minimum [Member]
 
Fair Value Inputs, Liabilities, Quantitative Information [Line Items]
 
Fair Value Inputs, Timing of Cash Flows
0 
Maximum [Member]
 
Fair Value Inputs, Liabilities, Quantitative Information [Line Items]
 
Fair Value Inputs, Timing of Cash Flows
27 
Accrued Liabilities Accrued Liabilities (Schedule of Accrued Liabilities) (Details) (USD $)
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified
Mar. 31, 2013
Dec. 31, 2012
Accrued Liabilities [Abstract]
 
 
Accrued compensation and benefits
$ 5,332 
$ 9,165 
Accrued instructional
5,533 
6,172 
Accrued vacation
1,613 
1,112 
RDI contingent consideration
6,306 
0 
Other
11,246 
9,943 
Accrued Liabilities
$ 30,030 
$ 26,392 
Commitments And Contingencies (Tables) (Details) (USD $)
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified
Mar. 31, 2013
Commitments and Contingencies Disclosure [Abstract]
 
2013
$ 4,918 
2014
6,471 
2015
6,516 
2016
6,552 
2017
6,690 
2018 and thereafter
5,596 
Total
$ 36,743 
Commitments And Contingencies (Narrative) (Details) (USD $)
3 Months Ended
Mar. 31, 2013
Line Of Credit Facility [Line Items]
 
Number Of Lease Extension Terms
2 
Lease Extension Term
5 
Line of credit
$ 100,000,000 
Option for additional borrowing
50,000,000 
Line of credit facility, expiration date
Sep. 30, 2016 
Capitalized transaction costs related to credit facility
500,000 
Amortization period of transaction costs, years
5 
Borrowings under the line of credit
$ 0 
LIBOR [Member] |
Minimum [Member]
 
Line Of Credit Facility [Line Items]
 
Line of credit facility, interest rate
1.75% 
LIBOR [Member] |
Maximum [Member]
 
Line Of Credit Facility [Line Items]
 
Line of credit facility, interest rate
2.25% 
Federal Funds Rate [Member] |
Alternative Base Rate [Member]
 
Line Of Credit Facility [Line Items]
 
Line of credit facility, interest rate
0.50% 
One Month Libor [Member] |
Alternative Base Rate [Member]
 
Line Of Credit Facility [Line Items]
 
Line of credit facility, interest rate
1.00% 
One Month Libor [Member] |
Alternative Base Rate [Member] |
Minimum [Member]
 
Line Of Credit Facility [Line Items]
 
Line of credit facility, interest rate
0.75% 
One Month Libor [Member] |
Alternative Base Rate [Member] |
Maximum [Member]
 
Line Of Credit Facility [Line Items]
 
Line of credit facility, interest rate
1.25% 
Share Repurchase Program (Tables) (Details) (USD $)
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified
3 Months Ended
Mar. 31, 2013
Share Repurchase Program Authorizations [Line Items]
 
Stock Repurchase Program, Authorized Amount
$ 235,662 
Cumulative Value Of Shares Repurchased
227,517 
Stock Repurchase Program, Remaining Authorized Repurchase Amount
8,145 
July 2008 [Member]
 
Share Repurchase Program Authorizations [Line Items]
 
Stock Repurchase Program, Authorized Amount
60,000 
August 2010 [Member]
 
Share Repurchase Program Authorizations [Line Items]
 
Stock Repurchase Program, Authorized Amount
60,662 
February 2011 [Member]
 
Share Repurchase Program Authorizations [Line Items]
 
Stock Repurchase Program, Authorized Amount
65,000 
December 2011 [Member]
 
Share Repurchase Program Authorizations [Line Items]
 
Stock Repurchase Program, Authorized Amount
$ 50,000 
Share Repurchase Program (Narrative) (Details) (USD $)
In Millions, except Share data, unless otherwise specified
3 Months Ended
Mar. 31, 2013
Mar. 31, 2012
Statement of Stockholders' Equity [Abstract]
 
 
Stock Repurchased During Period, Shares
4,000 
300,000 
Repurchase of Common Stock, Excluding Commisions
$ 0.1 
$ 12.9 
Number of aggregate shares repurchased under programs
5,200,000 
 
Shares repurchased, average price per share
$ 43.77 
 
Aggregate Consideration for Shares Repurchased
$ 227.5 
 
Acquisitions (Details) (USD $)
In Millions, unless otherwise specified
3 Months Ended 12 Months Ended
Jun. 30, 2012
Dec. 31, 2012
Business Combinations [Abstract]
 
 
Payments for Repurchase of Redeemable Noncontrolling Interest
 
$ 1.6 
Noncontrolling Interest Acquisition Date
4/16/2012 
 
Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Details) (USD $)
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified
3 Months Ended 12 Months Ended
Mar. 31, 2013
Dec. 31, 2012
Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Tax, Portion Attributable to Parent
$ 8 
$ 6 
Beginning balance
(22)
 
Ending balance
92 
(22)
Accumulated Translation Adjustment [Member]
 
 
Beginning balance, December 31, 2012
(32)
 
Current period change
111 
 
Ending balance, March 31, 2013
79 
 
Accumulated Net Unrealized Investment Gain (Loss) [Member]
 
 
Beginning balance, Demceber 31, 2012
10 
 
Current period change
3 
 
Ending balance, March 31, 2013
13 
 
Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss) [Member]
 
 
Beginning balance
(22)1
 
Current Period Change
114 1
 
Ending balance
$ 92 1
 
Regulatory Supervision And Oversight (Details)
3 Months Ended
Mar. 31, 2013
Maximum [Member]
 
Schedule Of Regulatory Supervision And Oversight [Line Items]
 
Reauthorization The Higher Education Act And Other Laws Governing Title IV Programs Approximate Period
8 
Minimum [Member]
 
Schedule Of Regulatory Supervision And Oversight [Line Items]
 
Reauthorization The Higher Education Act And Other Laws Governing Title IV Programs Approximate Period
5