Dr. James McGuffee views himself as the guide for the figurative hike his students take in Computer Science classes at Columbia College.
It’s their journey, and he’s there to help them navigate the terrain.
“I really enjoy listening to students,” McGuffee says. “I will ask pointed questions, not just generic, but really based on what they’re learning to point them in a direction.”
McGuffee joined the CC faculty in 2024 and is responsible for teaching and developing the Online B.S. in Computer Science Program. He earned his Ph.D. in Computer Science from Louisiana State University and is a senior member of the Association for Computing Machinery.
“Each student is unique and they come to Columbia College with a lot of life. I don’t need to know the details, but I need to know and understand who they are, and for them to know that I can help them achieve that next level.”
Associate Professor of Computer Science Dr. James McGuffee
McGuffee shares his deep knowledge of the C++ programming language, giving students a foundation in languages being used in the industry today as they learn the core programming fundamentals.
“We work with industry leaders to make sure we’re staying up to date, so that a student can come and learn at Columbia College and really know they have a path to success,” he says. “Whether that’s for their graduate studies or directly to their career, they have skills where they will be really employable.”
McGuffee strives to ensure his students know he is their advocate and is ready to support them in their preparation to enter the workforce.
“Each student is unique and they come to Columbia College with a lot of life,” he says. “I don’t need to know the details, but I need to know and understand who they are, and for them to know that I can help them achieve that next level.”
