Career lines leading to top-level administrative positions in two-year colleges were identified, based on data for 193 presidents, 271 chief academic officers, 221 chief student affairs officers, and 207 chief business officers. The analysis was based on internal labor market theory, and data were obtained from a 1984 national study of two-year college administrators' careers. Using a categorization scheme for possible position titles, curriculum vitae of respondents in each administrative position were analyzed to determine the types of positions that were held prior to the current positions. Except for presidents, the administrators came from various types of positions. Two-year college presidents largely came from top executive positions or chief academic officer positions. Positions that appeared frequently in the careers of chief student affairs officers were directors of counseling and financial aid, associate/assistant chief student affairs, and counselors. Chief business officers came most often from outside sources (business and industry and school administration). Comparisons to previous research are made. Also considered are implications of career lines for individuals and two-year colleges as well as for theory and research on careers in higher education. (SW)