This handbook is designed to facilitate the process of course classification in California community college districts under the revisions to the California Administrative Code, Title 5. Section 1 explains the purpose of the handbook and gives background on its development, the authority of the Chancellor's Office with respect to the approval of credit courses, and the process and forms to be used to certify the procedures currently being used at the districts to approve courses. Section 2 presents and explains Title 5 revisions in the areas of academic standards, repeatability of courses, disabled students, and minimum standards. Section 3 offers background on the Board of Governors' policies regarding the strengthening of academic standards and the reconciliation of civil rights and academic reform. Using a question-and-answer format, section 4 attempts to impart the clearest understanding of the regulations in such areas as course outlines, critical thinking, co- and pre-requisites, and non-degree credit versus noncredit. Sections 5 and 6 present model procedures and relevant forms for classifying courses for credit. Section 7 discusses issues related to student assessment; section 8 presents an article on public policy and educational reforms in the areas of "college-level" and "critical thinking"; and section 9 offers supplemental criteria for the classification of English as a Second Language Courses. Finally, section 10 offers guidance on the preparation of course outlines. (AYC)