Professor   Chris Vaughn

 

Information

Welcome! My name is Professor Christopher Vaughn, and I’ve been a full-time faculty member in the Computer Science and Computer Information Systems Department at Modesto Junior College since 1997. I also have the privilege of serving as the CS Department Lead.

My academic journey began at MJC, where I studied Computer Science and CIS before earning a bachelor’s degree in Computer Information Systems and Computer Science from Stanislaus State University. Over the years, I’ve contributed to numerous projects in the technology field. I was one of the earliest webmasters, developing and managing web services for the California Community College Chancellor's Office, the City of Modesto, the City of Oakdale, and Stanislaus County.

My professional portfolio also includes developing critical software systems for organizations such as STANCO (Stanislaus County Office of Education) and TID (Turlock Irrigation District). Notably, I codeveloped "The Registry," an early, centralized, online HR system for the Chancellor's Office that remains in use today. At MJC, I’ve developed in-house systems, including work order and digital media services platforms, as well as our now retired continuing edcation system for faculty, FLEX.

I hold certifications as a Microsoft Professional and specialize in database systems management. My technical expertise spans a wide array of programming languages, including C++, Python, C#, Java, JavaScript, PHP, and more, as well as database systems such as SQL Server, Oracle, PostgreSQL, and MySQL. The courses I teach include database systems, programming, web development, operating systems, business information systems, and discrete structures.

Beyond my professional work, I enjoy spending my free time immersed in photography, particularly capturing landscapes and nature. I also enjoy riding my eBike and watching soccer.

I’m a lifelong resident of Turlock, where I live with my family, including my 13-year-old granddaughter. I am passionate about teaching and mentoring students, and I look forward to helping you achieve your academic and career goals.

Feel free to reach out to me with any questions or for support as you navigate your studies in computer science!

Courses I Teach

• Problem Solving and Programming II,  CSCI272
  Introduction to data structures implemented using object-oriented design. Includes more advanced features of high-level languages such as C++, Java or Python. Continued emphasis on good programming methodologies and problem solving techniques and analysis. Emphasis on algorithm efficiency, recursive algorithms, and linked lists, stacks, queues, and trees.
  Section(s): 0959
• Introduction To Programming (Online),  CSCSI270
  First course in computer programming compliant with the standards of the Association for Computing Machinery (ACM). This course is for students with little or no programming experience. General computer literacy issues useful for technicians such as computer hardware, software development, operating systems, and telecommunications. Beginning problem-solving analysis, documentation, algorithm design, control structures, as well as program coding using an appropriate beginning programming language. Data manipulation, logic, looping, program testing, and program maintenance will be stressed.
  Section(s): 8866;8870
• Discrete Structures in Computer Science,  CSCI204
  Introduction to computational topics essential for work in Computer Science. Topics include: number bases, induction, sets, relations, functions, congruence, recursion, combinations and permutations, probability, graphs, trees, logic, Boolean algebra, and proof techniques. Computing related problems and examples are integrated throughout the course.
  Section(s): 3096