v3.24.2.u1

Significant Accounting Policies (Details) |  |  |  | 3 Months Ended | 6 Months Ended |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |
--- | --- | --- | --- | --- | --- | --- | --- | --- | --- | --- | --- | --- | ---
Jun. 13, 2024 | Jun. 05, 2024 | May 20, 2024 $ / shares | Jun. 30, 2024 USD ($) $ / shares shares | Dec. 31, 2023 USD ($) $ / shares shares | Jun. 30, 2023 USD ($) segment | Jun. 30, 2024 USD ($) segment $ / shares shares | Jun. 30, 2023 USD ($) | Jul. 25, 2024 USD ($) | Dec. 30, 2023 shares | Sep. 30, 2023 | Jul. 01, 2023 | Jan. 31, 2023 USD ($) | Jan. 11, 2023 USD ($) | Jan. 09, 2023 USD ($) | Apr. 30, 2020 USD ($)
Property and Equipment, Net |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |
Net carrying amount |  |  |  | $ 908,298,000 | $ 904,729,000 |  | $ 908,298,000 |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |
Common stock, par value (in dollars per share) | $ / shares |  |  | $ 0.001 | $ 0.001 | $ 0.001 |  | $ 0.001 |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |
Stock split ratio, common stock | 0.033 | 0.033 |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |
Authorized shares of common stock (in shares) | shares |  |  |  | 200,000,000 | 200,000,000 |  | 200,000,000 |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |
Common stock, shares issued (in shares) | shares |  |  |  | 2,805,301 | 2,741,980 |  | 2,805,301 |  |  | 82,260,619 |  |  |  |  |  |
Common stock, shares outstanding (in shares) | shares |  |  |  | 2,805,301 | 2,741,980 |  | 2,805,301 |  |  | 82,260,619 |  |  |  |  |  |
Asset impairment charges |  |  |  | $ (396,149,000) |  | $ (134,117,000) | $ (396,149,000) | $ (134,117,000) |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |
Impairment charges |  |  |  | $ 339,900,000 | $ 62,800,000 | 16,700,000 | $ 339,928,000 |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |
Impairment of indefinite lived intangibles |  |  |  |  |  | $ 117,400,000 |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |
Trade names |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |
Property and Equipment, Net |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |
Estimated average useful life |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  | 25 years |  |  |  |
Maximum |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |
Property and Equipment, Net |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |
Stock split ratio, common stock |  |  | 0.1 |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |
Maximum | University client relationships |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |
Property and Equipment, Net |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |
Estimated average useful life |  |  |  | 10 years |  |  | 10 years |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |
Maximum | Capitalized technology |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |
Property and Equipment, Net |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |
Estimated average useful life |  |  |  | 5 years |  |  | 5 years |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |
Maximum | Trade names and domain names |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |
Property and Equipment, Net |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |
Estimated average useful life |  |  |  | 25 years |  |  | 25 years |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |
Maximum | Artistic-Related Intangible Assets |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |
Property and Equipment, Net |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |
Estimated average useful life |  |  |  | 5 years |  |  | 5 years |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |
Minimum |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |
Property and Equipment, Net |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |
Stock split ratio, common stock |  |  | 0.025 |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |
Minimum | University client relationships |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |
Property and Equipment, Net |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |
Estimated average useful life |  |  |  | 9 years |  |  | 9 years |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |
Minimum | Capitalized technology |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |
Property and Equipment, Net |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |
Estimated average useful life |  |  |  | 3 years |  |  | 3 years |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |
Minimum | Trade names and domain names |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |
Property and Equipment, Net |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |
Estimated average useful life |  |  |  | 5 years |  |  | 5 years |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |
Minimum | Artistic-Related Intangible Assets |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |
Property and Equipment, Net |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |
Estimated average useful life |  |  |  | 4 years |  |  | 4 years |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |
Alternative Credential Segment |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |
Property and Equipment, Net |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |
Asset impairment charges |  |  |  | $ (56,200,000) |  |  | $ (56,200,000) |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |
Impairment of right of use assets |  |  |  | (5,200,000) |  |  | (5,200,000) |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |
Impairment of fixed assets |  |  |  | (1,700,000) |  |  | (1,700,000) |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |
Number of reporting units | segment |  |  |  |  |  | 3 |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |
Alternative Credential Segment | University client relationships |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |
Property and Equipment, Net |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |
Impairment charges |  |  |  | (32,200,000) |  |  | (32,200,000) |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |
Alternative Credential Segment | Capitalized technology |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |
Property and Equipment, Net |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |
Impairment charges |  |  |  | (10,300,000) |  |  | (10,300,000) |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |
Alternative Credential Segment | Trade names and domain names |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |
Property and Equipment, Net |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |
Impairment charges |  |  |  | (4,400,000) |  |  | (4,400,000) |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |
Alternative Credential Segment | Artistic-Related Intangible Assets |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |
Property and Equipment, Net |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |
Impairment charges |  |  |  | $ (2,400,000) |  |  | $ (2,400,000) |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |
Degree Program Segment |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |
Property and Equipment, Net |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |
Number of reporting units | segment |  |  |  |  |  |  | 1 |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |
Reporting unit carrying percentage |  |  |  | 10.00% | 10.00% |  | 10.00% |  |  |  | 10.00% |  |  |  |  |
Convertible senior notes |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |
Property and Equipment, Net |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |
Net carrying amount |  |  |  | $ 527,000,000 | $ 527,000,000 |  | $ 527,000,000 |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |
Revolving Loan Facility | Line of Credit |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |
Property and Equipment, Net |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |
Principal |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  | $ 40,000,000 |
Net carrying amount |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  | $ 372,400,000 |
Second Amended Credit Agreement | Line of Credit |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |
Property and Equipment, Net |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |
Recurring revenues |  |  |  |  |  |  | 900,000,000 |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |
Second Amended Credit Agreement | Line of Credit | Subsequent Event |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |
Property and Equipment, Net |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |
Net carrying amount |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  | $ 414,300,000 |  |  |  |  |  |  |
2025 Notes | Convertible senior notes |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |
Property and Equipment, Net |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |
Principal |  |  |  | 380,000,000 | 380,000,000 |  | 380,000,000 |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  | $ 380,000,000
Net carrying amount |  |  |  | 378,243,000 | 377,193,000 |  | 378,243,000 |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |
2025 Notes | Convertible senior notes | Subsequent Event |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |
Property and Equipment, Net |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |
Net carrying amount |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  | 380,000,000 |  |  |  |  |  |  |
2030 Notes | Convertible senior notes |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |
Property and Equipment, Net |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |
Principal |  |  |  | 147,000,000 | 147,000,000 |  | 147,000,000 |  |  |  |  |  | $ 147,000,000 | $ 147,000,000 |  |
Net carrying amount |  |  |  | $ 129,338,000 | $ 127,864,000 |  | $ 129,338,000 |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |
2030 Notes | Convertible senior notes | Subsequent Event |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |
Property and Equipment, Net |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |
Net carrying amount |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  | $ 147,000,000 |  |  |  |  |  |  |

X
- Definition Debt Instrument, Covenants, Recurring Revenues + References No definition available. + Details
Name: | twou_DebtInstrumentCovenantsRecurringRevenues
Namespace Prefix: | twou_
Data Type: | xbrli:monetaryItemType
Balance Type: | debit
Period Type: | duration

X
- Definition Amount of write-down of assets recognized in the income statement. Includes, but is not limited to, losses from tangible assets, intangible assets and goodwill. + References Reference 1: http://fasb.org/us-gaap/role/ref/legacyRef -Name Accounting Standards Codification -Section 45 -Paragraph 28 -Subparagraph (b) -SubTopic 10 -Topic 230 -Publisher FASB -URI https://asc.fasb.org/1943274/2147482740/230-10-45-28 Reference 2: http://fasb.org/us-gaap/role/ref/legacyRef -Name Accounting Standards Codification -Topic 360 -SubTopic 10 -Section 45 -Paragraph 4 -Publisher FASB -URI https://asc.fasb.org/1943274/2147482130/360-10-45-4 + Details
Name: | us-gaap_AssetImpairmentCharges
Namespace Prefix: | us-gaap_
Data Type: | xbrli:monetaryItemType
Balance Type: | debit
Period Type: | duration

X
- Definition Face amount or stated value per share of common stock. + References Reference 1: http://fasb.org/us-gaap/role/ref/legacyRef -Topic 210 -SubTopic 10 -Name Accounting Standards Codification -Section S99 -Paragraph 1 -Subparagraph (SX 210.5-02(29)) -Publisher FASB -URI https://asc.fasb.org/1943274/2147480566/210-10-S99-1 + Details
Name: | us-gaap_CommonStockParOrStatedValuePerShare
Namespace Prefix: | us-gaap_
Data Type: | dtr-types:perShareItemType
Balance Type: | na
Period Type: | instant

X
- Definition The maximum number of common shares permitted to be issued by an entity's charter and bylaws. + References Reference 1: http://fasb.org/us-gaap/role/ref/legacyRef -Topic 210 -SubTopic 10 -Name Accounting Standards Codification -Section S99 -Paragraph 1 -Subparagraph (SX 210.5-02(29)) -Publisher FASB -URI https://asc.fasb.org/1943274/2147480566/210-10-S99-1 Reference 2: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/disclosureRef -Topic 946 -SubTopic 210 -Name Accounting Standards Codification -Section S99 -Paragraph 1 -Subparagraph (SX 210.6-04(16)(a)) -Publisher FASB -URI https://asc.fasb.org/1943274/2147479170/946-210-S99-1 + Details
Name: | us-gaap_CommonStockSharesAuthorized
Namespace Prefix: | us-gaap_
Data Type: | xbrli:sharesItemType
Balance Type: | na
Period Type: | instant

X
- Definition Total number of common shares of an entity that have been sold or granted to shareholders (includes common shares that were issued, repurchased and remain in the treasury). These shares represent capital invested by the firm's shareholders and owners, and may be all or only a portion of the number of shares authorized. Shares issued include shares outstanding and shares held in the treasury. + References Reference 1: http://fasb.org/us-gaap/role/ref/legacyRef -Topic 210 -SubTopic 10 -Name Accounting Standards Codification -Section S99 -Paragraph 1 -Subparagraph (SX 210.5-02(29)) -Publisher FASB -URI https://asc.fasb.org/1943274/2147480566/210-10-S99-1 + Details
Name: | us-gaap_CommonStockSharesIssued
Namespace Prefix: | us-gaap_
Data Type: | xbrli:sharesItemType
Balance Type: | na
Period Type: | instant

X
- Definition Number of shares of common stock outstanding. Common stock represent the ownership interest in a corporation. + References Reference 1: http://fasb.org/us-gaap/role/ref/legacyRef -Name Accounting Standards Codification -Section 50 -Paragraph 2 -SubTopic 10 -Topic 505 -Publisher FASB -URI https://asc.fasb.org/1943274/2147481112/505-10-50-2 Reference 2: http://fasb.org/us-gaap/role/ref/legacyRef -Topic 210 -SubTopic 10 -Name Accounting Standards Codification -Section S99 -Paragraph 1 -Subparagraph (SX 210.5-02(29)) -Publisher FASB -URI https://asc.fasb.org/1943274/2147480566/210-10-S99-1 Reference 3: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/disclosureRef -Topic 946 -SubTopic 210 -Name Accounting Standards Codification -Section S99 -Paragraph 2 -Subparagraph (SX 210.6-05(4)) -Publisher FASB -URI https://asc.fasb.org/1943274/2147479170/946-210-S99-2 Reference 4: http://www.xbrl.org/2009/role/commonPracticeRef -Topic 946 -SubTopic 220 -Name Accounting Standards Codification -Section S99 -Paragraph 3 -Subparagraph (SX 210.6-09(4)(b)) -Publisher FASB -URI https://asc.fasb.org/1943274/2147479134/946-220-S99-3 Reference 5: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/disclosureRef -Topic 946 -SubTopic 210 -Name Accounting Standards Codification -Section S99 -Paragraph 1 -Subparagraph (SX 210.6-04(16)(a)) -Publisher FASB -URI https://asc.fasb.org/1943274/2147479170/946-210-S99-1 Reference 6: http://www.xbrl.org/2009/role/commonPracticeRef -Topic 946 -SubTopic 220 -Name Accounting Standards Codification -Section S99 -Paragraph 3 -Subparagraph (SX 210.6-09(7)) -Publisher FASB -URI https://asc.fasb.org/1943274/2147479134/946-220-S99-3 + Details
Name: | us-gaap_CommonStockSharesOutstanding
Namespace Prefix: | us-gaap_
Data Type: | xbrli:sharesItemType
Balance Type: | na
Period Type: | instant

X
- Definition Amount, before unamortized (discount) premium and debt issuance costs, of long-term debt. Includes, but is not limited to, notes payable, bonds payable, commercial loans, mortgage loans, convertible debt, subordinated debt and other types of debt. + References Reference 1: http://fasb.org/us-gaap/role/ref/legacyRef -Name Accounting Standards Codification -Section S99 -Paragraph 1 -Subparagraph (SX 210.5-02(22)) -SubTopic 10 -Topic 210 -Publisher FASB -URI https://asc.fasb.org/1943274/2147480566/210-10-S99-1 Reference 2: http://fasb.org/us-gaap/role/ref/legacyRef -Topic 942 -SubTopic 210 -Name Accounting Standards Codification -Section S99 -Paragraph 1 -Subparagraph (SX 210.9-03(16)) -Publisher FASB -URI https://asc.fasb.org/1943274/2147478546/942-210-S99-1 Reference 3: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/disclosureRef -Topic 470 -SubTopic 20 -Name Accounting Standards Codification -Section 50 -Paragraph 4 -Subparagraph (b)(1) -Publisher FASB -URI https://asc.fasb.org/1943274/2147481139/470-20-50-4 + Details
Name: | us-gaap_DebtInstrumentCarryingAmount
Namespace Prefix: | us-gaap_
Data Type: | xbrli:monetaryItemType
Balance Type: | credit
Period Type: | instant

X
- Definition Face (par) amount of debt instrument at time of issuance. + References Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/exampleRef -Topic 835 -SubTopic 30 -Name Accounting Standards Codification -Section 55 -Paragraph 8 -Publisher FASB -URI https://asc.fasb.org/1943274/2147482949/835-30-55-8 Reference 2: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/disclosureRef -Topic 470 -SubTopic 20 -Name Accounting Standards Codification -Section 50 -Paragraph 1B -Subparagraph (a) -Publisher FASB -URI https://asc.fasb.org/1943274/2147481139/470-20-50-1B Reference 3: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/exampleRef -Topic 470 -SubTopic 20 -Name Accounting Standards Codification -Section 55 -Paragraph 69B -Publisher FASB -URI https://asc.fasb.org/1943274/2147481568/470-20-55-69B Reference 4: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/exampleRef -Topic 470 -SubTopic 20 -Name Accounting Standards Codification -Section 55 -Paragraph 69C -Publisher FASB -URI https://asc.fasb.org/1943274/2147481568/470-20-55-69C Reference 5: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/disclosureRef -Topic 835 -SubTopic 30 -Name Accounting Standards Codification -Section 50 -Paragraph 1 -Publisher FASB -URI https://asc.fasb.org/1943274/2147482900/835-30-50-1 Reference 6: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/disclosureRef -Topic 835 -SubTopic 30 -Name Accounting Standards Codification -Section 45 -Paragraph 2 -Publisher FASB -URI https://asc.fasb.org/1943274/2147482925/835-30-45-2 + Details
Name: | us-gaap_DebtInstrumentFaceAmount
Namespace Prefix: | us-gaap_
Data Type: | xbrli:monetaryItemType
Balance Type: | credit
Period Type: | instant

X
- Definition Useful life of finite-lived intangible assets, in 'PnYnMnDTnHnMnS' format, for example, 'P1Y5M13D' represents the reported fact of one year, five months, and thirteen days. + References No definition available. + Details
Name: | us-gaap_FiniteLivedIntangibleAssetUsefulLife
Namespace Prefix: | us-gaap_
Data Type: | xbrli:durationItemType
Balance Type: | na
Period Type: | instant

X
- Definition Amount of impairment loss from asset representing future economic benefit arising from other asset acquired in business combination or from joint venture formation or both, that is not individually identified and separately recognized. + References Reference 1: http://fasb.org/us-gaap/role/ref/legacyRef -Name Accounting Standards Codification -Section 45 -Paragraph 28 -Subparagraph (b) -SubTopic 10 -Topic 230 -Publisher FASB -URI https://asc.fasb.org/1943274/2147482740/230-10-45-28 Reference 2: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/exampleRef -Topic 350 -SubTopic 20 -Name Accounting Standards Codification -Section 55 -Paragraph 24 -Publisher FASB -URI https://asc.fasb.org/1943274/2147482548/350-20-55-24 Reference 3: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/disclosureRef -Topic 350 -SubTopic 20 -Name Accounting Standards Codification -Section 50 -Paragraph 2 -Subparagraph (b) -Publisher FASB -URI https://asc.fasb.org/1943274/2147482573/350-20-50-2 Reference 4: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/exampleRef -Topic 820 -SubTopic 10 -Name Accounting Standards Codification -Section 55 -Paragraph 100 -Subparagraph (d) -Publisher FASB -URI https://asc.fasb.org/1943274/2147482078/820-10-55-100 Reference 5: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/disclosureRef -Topic 350 -SubTopic 20 -Name Accounting Standards Codification -Section 50 -Paragraph 1 -Subparagraph (e) -Publisher FASB -URI https://asc.fasb.org/1943274/2147482573/350-20-50-1 Reference 6: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/disclosureRef -Topic 350 -SubTopic 20 -Name Accounting Standards Codification -Section 45 -Paragraph 2 -Publisher FASB -URI https://asc.fasb.org/1943274/2147482598/350-20-45-2 + Details
Name: | us-gaap_GoodwillImpairmentLoss
Namespace Prefix: | us-gaap_
Data Type: | xbrli:monetaryItemType
Balance Type: | debit
Period Type: | duration

X
- Definition The amount of impairment loss recognized in the period resulting from the write-down of the carrying amount of a finite-lived intangible asset to fair value. + References Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/disclosureRef -Topic 350 -SubTopic 30 -Name Accounting Standards Codification -Section 45 -Paragraph 2 -Publisher FASB -URI https://asc.fasb.org/1943274/2147482686/350-30-45-2 Reference 2: http://www.xbrl.org/2009/role/commonPracticeRef -Topic 350 -SubTopic 30 -Name Accounting Standards Codification -Section 50 -Paragraph 3 -Subparagraph (b) -Publisher FASB -URI https://asc.fasb.org/1943274/2147482665/350-30-50-3 Reference 3: http://www.xbrl.org/2009/role/commonPracticeRef -Topic 230 -SubTopic 10 -Name Accounting Standards Codification -Section 45 -Paragraph 28 -Subparagraph (b) -Publisher FASB -URI https://asc.fasb.org/1943274/2147482740/230-10-45-28 + Details
Name: | us-gaap_ImpairmentOfIntangibleAssetsFinitelived
Namespace Prefix: | us-gaap_
Data Type: | xbrli:monetaryItemType
Balance Type: | debit
Period Type: | duration

X
- Definition Amount of impairment loss resulting from write-down of assets, excluding financial assets and goodwill, lacking physical substance and having a projected indefinite period of benefit to fair value. + References Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/disclosureRef -Topic 350 -SubTopic 30 -Name Accounting Standards Codification -Section 45 -Paragraph 2 -Publisher FASB -URI https://asc.fasb.org/1943274/2147482686/350-30-45-2 Reference 2: http://www.xbrl.org/2009/role/commonPracticeRef -Topic 350 -SubTopic 30 -Name Accounting Standards Codification -Section 50 -Paragraph 2 -Subparagraph (b) -Publisher FASB -URI https://asc.fasb.org/1943274/2147482665/350-30-50-2 Reference 3: http://www.xbrl.org/2009/role/commonPracticeRef -Topic 350 -SubTopic 30 -Name Accounting Standards Codification -Section 50 -Paragraph 3 -Subparagraph (b) -Publisher FASB -URI https://asc.fasb.org/1943274/2147482665/350-30-50-3 Reference 4: http://www.xbrl.org/2009/role/commonPracticeRef -Topic 230 -SubTopic 10 -Name Accounting Standards Codification -Section 45 -Paragraph 28 -Subparagraph (b) -Publisher FASB -URI https://asc.fasb.org/1943274/2147482740/230-10-45-28 + Details
Name: | us-gaap_ImpairmentOfIntangibleAssetsIndefinitelivedExcludingGoodwill
Namespace Prefix: | us-gaap_
Data Type: | xbrli:monetaryItemType
Balance Type: | debit
Period Type: | duration

X
- Definition The aggregate amount of write-downs for impairments recognized during the period for long lived assets held for use (including those held for disposal by means other than sale). + References Reference 1: http://fasb.org/us-gaap/role/ref/legacyRef -Name Accounting Standards Codification -Section 45 -Paragraph 28 -Subparagraph (b) -SubTopic 10 -Topic 230 -Publisher FASB -URI https://asc.fasb.org/1943274/2147482740/230-10-45-28 Reference 2: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/exampleRef -Topic 820 -SubTopic 10 -Name Accounting Standards Codification -Section 55 -Paragraph 100 -Subparagraph (c) -Publisher FASB -URI https://asc.fasb.org/1943274/2147482078/820-10-55-100 Reference 3: http://fasb.org/us-gaap/role/ref/legacyRef -Topic 360 -SubTopic 10 -Name Accounting Standards Codification -Section 50 -Paragraph 2 -Subparagraph (b) -Publisher FASB -URI https://asc.fasb.org/1943274/2147482099/360-10-50-2 Reference 4: http://fasb.org/us-gaap/role/ref/legacyRef -Name Accounting Standards Codification -Topic 360 -SubTopic 10 -Section 45 -Paragraph 4 -Publisher FASB -URI https://asc.fasb.org/1943274/2147482130/360-10-45-4 + Details
Name: | us-gaap_ImpairmentOfLongLivedAssetsHeldForUse
Namespace Prefix: | us-gaap_
Data Type: | xbrli:monetaryItemType
Balance Type: | debit
Period Type: | duration

X
- Definition Amount, after deduction of unamortized premium (discount) and debt issuance cost, of long-term debt. Excludes lease obligation. + References Reference 1: http://fasb.org/us-gaap/role/ref/legacyRef -Name Accounting Standards Codification -Section S99 -Paragraph 1 -Subparagraph (SX 210.5-02(22)) -SubTopic 10 -Topic 210 -Publisher FASB -URI https://asc.fasb.org/1943274/2147480566/210-10-S99-1 Reference 2: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/exampleRef -Topic 835 -SubTopic 30 -Name Accounting Standards Codification -Section 55 -Paragraph 8 -Publisher FASB -URI https://asc.fasb.org/1943274/2147482949/835-30-55-8 Reference 3: http://fasb.org/us-gaap/role/ref/legacyRef -Topic 942 -SubTopic 210 -Name Accounting Standards Codification -Section S99 -Paragraph 1 -Subparagraph (SX 210.9-03(16)) -Publisher FASB -URI https://asc.fasb.org/1943274/2147478546/942-210-S99-1 Reference 4: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/exampleRef -Topic 470 -SubTopic 20 -Name Accounting Standards Codification -Section 55 -Paragraph 69B -Publisher FASB -URI https://asc.fasb.org/1943274/2147481568/470-20-55-69B Reference 5: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/exampleRef -Topic 470 -SubTopic 20 -Name Accounting Standards Codification -Section 55 -Paragraph 69C -Publisher FASB -URI https://asc.fasb.org/1943274/2147481568/470-20-55-69C Reference 6: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/disclosureRef -Topic 470 -SubTopic 20 -Name Accounting Standards Codification -Section 50 -Paragraph 1D -Subparagraph (b) -Publisher FASB -URI https://asc.fasb.org/1943274/2147481139/470-20-50-1D Reference 7: http://www.xbrl.org/2009/role/commonPracticeRef -Topic 944 -SubTopic 210 -Name Accounting Standards Codification -Section S99 -Paragraph 1 -Subparagraph (SX 210.7-03(a)(16)(a)(2)) -Publisher FASB -URI https://asc.fasb.org/1943274/2147478777/944-210-S99-1 Reference 8: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/disclosureRef -Topic 470 -SubTopic 20 -Name Accounting Standards Codification -Section 50 -Paragraph 4 -Subparagraph (b)(3) -Publisher FASB -URI https://asc.fasb.org/1943274/2147481139/470-20-50-4 + Details
Name: | us-gaap_LongTermDebt
Namespace Prefix: | us-gaap_
Data Type: | xbrli:monetaryItemType
Balance Type: | credit
Period Type: | instant

X
- Definition Number of reporting units tested for impairment of goodwill. A reporting unit is an operating segment or one level below an operating segment. + References No definition available. + Details
Name: | us-gaap_NumberOfReportingUnits
Namespace Prefix: | us-gaap_
Data Type: | xbrli:integerItemType
Balance Type: | na
Period Type: | duration

X
- Definition Amount of loss from impairment of right-of-use asset from operating lease. + References Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2009/role/commonPracticeRef -Topic 842 -SubTopic 20 -Name Accounting Standards Codification -Section 25 -Paragraph 6 -Subparagraph (c) -Publisher FASB -URI https://asc.fasb.org/1943274/2147479365/842-20-25-6 + Details
Name: | us-gaap_OperatingLeaseImpairmentLoss
Namespace Prefix: | us-gaap_
Data Type: | xbrli:monetaryItemType
Balance Type: | debit
Period Type: | duration

X
- Definition Line items represent financial concepts included in a table. These concepts are used to disclose reportable information associated with domain members defined in one or many axes to the table. + References Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/disclosureRef -Topic 842 -SubTopic 20 -Name Accounting Standards Codification -Section 50 -Paragraph 7A -Subparagraph (a) -Publisher FASB -URI https://asc.fasb.org/1943274/2147478964/842-20-50-7A + Details
Name: | us-gaap_PropertyPlantAndEquipmentLineItems
Namespace Prefix: | us-gaap_
Data Type: | xbrli:stringItemType
Balance Type: | na
Period Type: | duration

X
- Definition Percentage of fair value of reporting unit in excess of carrying amount. + References No definition available. + Details
Name: | us-gaap_ReportingUnitPercentageOfFairValueInExcessOfCarryingAmount
Namespace Prefix: | us-gaap_
Data Type: | dtr-types:percentItemType
Balance Type: | na
Period Type: | instant

X
- Definition Ratio applied to the conversion of stock split, for example but not limited to, one share converted to two or two shares converted to one. + References Reference 1: http://fasb.org/us-gaap/role/ref/legacyRef -Topic 505 -SubTopic 10 -Name Accounting Standards Codification -Section S99 -Paragraph 4 -Subparagraph (SAB Topic 4.C) -Publisher FASB -URI https://asc.fasb.org/1943274/2147480008/505-10-S99-4 + Details
Name: | us-gaap_StockholdersEquityNoteStockSplitConversionRatio1
Namespace Prefix: | us-gaap_
Data Type: | xbrli:pureItemType
Balance Type: | na
Period Type: | duration

X
- Details
Name: | us-gaap_IndefiniteLivedIntangibleAssetsByMajorClassAxis=us-gaap_TradeNamesMember
Namespace Prefix: |
Data Type: | na
Balance Type: |
Period Type: |

X
- Details
Name: | srt_RangeAxis=srt_MaximumMember
Namespace Prefix: |
Data Type: | na
Balance Type: |
Period Type: |

X
- Details
Name: | us-gaap_FiniteLivedIntangibleAssetsByMajorClassAxis=twou_UniversityClientRelationshipsMember
Namespace Prefix: |
Data Type: | na
Balance Type: |
Period Type: |

X
- Details
Name: | us-gaap_FiniteLivedIntangibleAssetsByMajorClassAxis=us-gaap_DevelopedTechnologyRightsMember
Namespace Prefix: |
Data Type: | na
Balance Type: |
Period Type: |

X
- Details
Name: | us-gaap_FiniteLivedIntangibleAssetsByMajorClassAxis=twou_TradeNamesAndDomainNamesMember
Namespace Prefix: |
Data Type: | na
Balance Type: |
Period Type: |

X
- Details
Name: | us-gaap_FiniteLivedIntangibleAssetsByMajorClassAxis=us-gaap_ArtisticRelatedIntangibleAssetsMember
Namespace Prefix: |
Data Type: | na
Balance Type: |
Period Type: |

X
- Details
Name: | srt_RangeAxis=srt_MinimumMember
Namespace Prefix: |
Data Type: | na
Balance Type: |
Period Type: |

X
- Details
Name: | us-gaap_StatementBusinessSegmentsAxis=twou_AlternativeCredentialSegmentMember
Namespace Prefix: |
Data Type: | na
Balance Type: |
Period Type: |

X
- Details
Name: | us-gaap_StatementBusinessSegmentsAxis=twou_DegreeProgramSegmentMember
Namespace Prefix: |
Data Type: | na
Balance Type: |
Period Type: |

X
- Details
Name: | us-gaap_LongtermDebtTypeAxis=us-gaap_ConvertibleDebtMember
Namespace Prefix: |
Data Type: | na
Balance Type: |
Period Type: |

X
- Details
Name: | us-gaap_DebtInstrumentAxis=twou_RevolvingLoanFacilityMember
Namespace Prefix: |
Data Type: | na
Balance Type: |
Period Type: |

X
- Details
Name: | us-gaap_LongtermDebtTypeAxis=us-gaap_LineOfCreditMember
Namespace Prefix: |
Data Type: | na
Balance Type: |
Period Type: |

X
- Details
Name: | us-gaap_DebtInstrumentAxis=twou_SecondAmendedCreditAgreementMember
Namespace Prefix: |
Data Type: | na
Balance Type: |
Period Type: |

X
- Details
Name: | us-gaap_SubsequentEventTypeAxis=us-gaap_SubsequentEventMember
Namespace Prefix: |
Data Type: | na
Balance Type: |
Period Type: |

X
- Details
Name: | us-gaap_DebtInstrumentAxis=twou_The2025NotesMember
Namespace Prefix: |
Data Type: | na
Balance Type: |
Period Type: |

X
- Details
Name: | us-gaap_DebtInstrumentAxis=twou_A2030NotesMember
Namespace Prefix: |
Data Type: | na
Balance Type: |
Period Type: |