Developed by the Task Force on Academic Quality for the Chancellor of the California Community Colleges, this report analyzes, discusses, and offers recommendations concerning ways to strengthen the quality of the associate degree in the state's community college system. Part I provides background on the charge of the Task Force and external influences on the scope of its deliberations. Part II provides a history of the associate degree from 1900; examines the current status of the associate degree nationally and in California; reviews prior actions taken by officials of the California community colleges concerning the integrity of the associate degree; and discusses factors affecting the number and quality of the associate degrees awarded in the state. Part III presents a proposal to amend Title 5 of the Education Code to ensure that courses applied to the associate degree are of sufficient academic rigor and are distinguishable from courses not applicable to the degree. This section also includes a preliminary discussion of issues that suggest a need to redefine the associate degree and recommendations that the Board of Governors initiate an examination of the need for redefining or restructuring the degree and that they encourage efforts to promote articulation among the state's community colleges and other educational segments. Appendices present existing minimum requirements for the associate degree, a policy statement from the American Association of Community and Junior Colleges, and a list of task force members. (HB)