This guide is designed for use in investigating college athletics program compliance with Title IX of the Educational Amendments of 1972, prohibiting sex discrimination in programs and activities receiving federal financial assistance. It is organized to assist investigators from the time a complaint is received or compliance review scheduled to issuance of a letter of findings. The first section explains general approaches to athletics investigations and differences between interscholastic and intercollegiate athletics, details the manual's organization and use, and discusses the determination of compliance. Subsequent sections address athletics program components that may be investigated: athletic financial assistance; accommodation of interests and abilities; equipment and supplies; scheduling of games/practice time; travel/per diem allowance; tutors; coaches; locker rooms, practice and competitive facilities; medical and training facilities and services; publicity; support services; and recruitment of student athletes. Each section includes on-site data request questions, interview questions, directions for analyzing information, charts for recording information and comparing programs, and cautions regarding acceptable differences between men's and women's athletics programs. Appendixes contain models for an investigative plan, data request, and letter of findings, explanation of T and Z tests used in determination of financial assistance, and a policy memorandum clarifying coaches' compensation regulations. (MSE)