Main Campus/Coastal Science Center Courses   

In this course, the instructor will share his travel journal of his trip to the United Kingdom. This "bucket list" trip started in London where four days were spent exploring the sites, neighborhoods and cuisine.  This was followed by a twelve night cruise that circled Ireland, Scotland and France before returning to England. The journal shares his personal experiences, biggest fear, thoughts and insights.

The course objective is to entertain and provide information to consider when planning a trip to the UK. Class participants will engage in exercises as you vicariously travel with the author to Big Ben, the Eye and Parliament. You will treasure your Harrods’s Christmas ornament, see Peking duck hanging from the restaurant window and smell fresh dim sum in China town. You will ride a double decker bus as you circle the roundabout at Piccadilly Circus.

After all the excitement of London, you will travel to South Hampton to embark on your 12-night cruise, where your biggest decision is what you are going to eat (steak, lobster, why not both?)  Your journey continues as you see Ireland’s green rolling pastures, sheep, sheep, and more sheep. You will see Scotland’s ocean side cliffs. The trip continues as you enjoy a creamy pint of Guinness in Dublin, taste the best fish and chips in Belfast and walk the hallowed beaches of Normandy.

At the conclusion of class, participants will have a better understanding of things to consider when planning an overseas trip. The instructor will share his biggest fear and how he came to peace.

Students will make a long-leaf pine needle Cherokee BLESSING basket, using artificial waxed weaving sinew.

Please click here for some inspiration for this course.

Required Materials Fee: $20 due to instructor with cash or credit card.

Dive into the rich heritage and craftsmanship of bourbon in this fun, informative introduction designed for adult learners. Explore how bourbon became America’s native spirit, from its early frontier roots to its modern-day renaissance. Learn what makes bourbon unique—its legal definitions, ingredients, distilling process, and the crucial role of charred oak barrels in creating its signature flavor and color. We’ll also explore major bourbon brands, regional styles, and the wide range of flavor profiles you can find, from sweet and mellow to bold and spicy. You’ll gain the knowledge to confidently navigate the bourbon aisle, understand labels, and appreciate the artistry behind every bottle. Whether you’re a curious beginner or a casual enthusiast, this class offers the perfect foundation for exploring the world of bourbon.

Special note: Due to Coastal Carolina University policies, there will not be any tasting as part of this course.

 

A strong brand is the foundation for any successful business, whether a for-profit enterprise or a not-for-profit. Everyone can think of strong brands, but what makes them strong and what’s needed to sustain that brand? In this course, we’ll look at key elements of branding and brand-building, including characteristics of strong brands. We’ll explore some of the tools and approaches being used by major marketing communications and branding agencies to build and enhance their clients’ brands. We’ll also look at how we as consumers interact with brands and how brands influence our decision-making. Why are many of us willing to pay more for one brand versus another? If you’re building a business, supporting a non-profit, or just curious to learn more about what’s behind brands, you’ll benefit from this course.

Explore the fascinating world of the Chakras and discover how energy affects your mind, body and spirit. In this four-session course, students will learn about the seven main chakras, their associated colors, and how imbalances can affect their emotional, physical and mental wellbeing. Through interactive activities, self-assessments, and guided exercises, participants will gain practical tools to identify energy blocks, promote alignment, and enhance overall wellness. No prior experience is necessary, this course is designed for learners at all levels who are curious about energy, frequency, personal growth and holistic wellness.

Please click here to see an example of the personalized gifts made by the instructor.

Required Materials Fee: $8 is payable to the instructor at the first session. Based on feedback the instructor receives from students during the course, the instructor will make a custom gift tailored to each student, to inspire and support them on their personal journey.

Discover how colors influence your emotions, energy and overall well-being. Students will explore how different colors make us feel, what our favorite colors reveal about our inner energy, and practical ways to incorporate color into daily life to create wellness. 

Please click here to see an example of the personalized gifts made by the instructor for each student.

Required Materials Fee: $8 is payable to the instructor at the first session. Based on what each student discovers about their best color, the instructor will be making a custom gift for each student to inspire and support them on their personal journey.

The Caribbean is the most cruised destination in the world. What is the draw of the Caribbean? Tropical islands, beautiful beaches, turquoise water, cultural experience, warm weather and generally affordability. This workshop is a comprehensive review of the Caribbean.

Topics covered include: Caribbean geography, islands, best times to go, embarkation ports, excursions, cruise lines, cruise itineraries, cruise insurance, group travel, family travel, solo travel, shopping, local customs, and additional tips and recommendations. This workshop includes handouts and classroom exercises, and concludes with an opportunity for Q&A.

Let’s make a modern embroidery sampler using historical techniques! In this class, we will explore crewelwork, blackwork and surface embroidery, learning a few stitches of each as we complete a small sampler. We will talk about the history of the techniques, learn different methods of transferring patterns, share recommendations on other learning resources and, most importantly, stitch together. This course is suitable for all skill levels.

Please click here to see an example of what you will learn to make in this course.

Required Materials: A kit will be provided, but each student is asked to bring a small pair of scissors, and an 8” embroidery hoop or frame, ideally one that can be used hands-free. You may reach out to the instructor for recommendations, if needed.

Materials Fee: $12 is payable to the instructor for the kit at the start of the class.

Is there any wine-producing area that isn’t beautiful? Not in my experience, but the Western Cape Province of South Africa is particularly breathtaking. From the Cape Town suburbs (the Constantia region) to the wine-focused town of Stellenbosch, to the quaint charm of Franschhoek, to the ocean and mountains of Walker Bay, you’ll find incredible scenery and great wine wherever you go.

South Africa has been making wine since 1659. The end of apartheid in 1994 reopened South Africa to the rest of the world, and winemakers from the Cape quickly began getting up to speed on what was happening in winemaking. There are now more than 500 cellars in the Western Cape (and I’ve been to more than 150 of them … so far), making world-class wines.

This course will serve as your introduction to the wine farms and wines of South Africa. Whether you’re thinking about visiting the country or just want to learn more about the great wine coming from this part of the world, consider this your guide. We’ll talk about the main grape varietals, including South Africa’s own creation, Pinotage, and the major winegrowing areas. South Africa puts a lot of emphasis on sustainability and on community outreach and we’ll look at some of those initiatives as well. It can take some determination and persistence to find the better South African wines here in the U.S., so we’ll also talk about available buying options, including where to find South African wine in the Grand Strand.

Please click here for some inspiration for this course.

Special Note: Per Coastal Carolina University policies, this course does NOT include any wine tasting.

This course is designed to introduce the participant to fermentation as a method to prepare and preserve delicious traditional foods. We will discuss 1) the biology of the bacteria and yeast which are used to promote the fermentation, 2) the health benefits of fermented foods, 3) the history of fermented foods in cultures across the globe, and 4) easy methods for preparing fermented foods in your own home. The session will culminate in tasting home fermented foods prepared by the instructors.

Required Materials Fee: $10 payable to the instructor at the beginning of the class.

Are you ready to take your computer skills to the next level and explore the world of website creation? This hands-on course is designed for seniors, with moderate to advanced computer knowledge, who are eager to learn the fundamentals of designing and building their own websites. Whether you're interested in creating a personal blog, a small business site, or a portfolio, this class will guide you through the basics of layout, design principles, user experience, and popular website-building platforms like Wix and WordPress. Students will leave with a clear action plan for their own website, including goals, target audience, and content ideas.

Required Materials: Students must bring a laptop (Windows or Mac) with Wi-Fi capability, a notebook and pen for notes, and a preliminary action plan outlining the purpose of their website, intended audience, and any existing content or images they wish to include.

Discover the rich and complex history of Hobcaw Barony, a 16,000-acre coastal preserve that has witnessed centuries of transformation—from Native American homelands to rice plantations to a 20th-century estate for the Baruch family. This four-week course explores the cultural, environmental, and historical significance of Hobcaw Barony, highlighting its role in shaping the South Carolina Lowcountry. Through documents and presentations that tell the stories of the people who lived and labored there, participants will gain a deeper appreciation for this unique “land between the waters."

Don't wait until a fall injures more than your pride! Build confidence in your ability to manage your falls risk through:

• Identification and removal of fall hazards from your home

• Strength and balance exercise

• Understanding how medications play a role in your risk of falls

• Understanding how vision and hearing affect your risk of falling

You are a perfect fit for this 7-week workshop if you are:

• 60+ years of age

• Have fallen in the last year or have a fear of falling

• Live at home or in an independent apartment

Required Materials: All materials will be provided in this FREE class.

Discover how small changes can make a big impact in this engaging and practical workshop designed for adults 50+. Whether you're looking to simplify your lifestyle, reduce waste, or make more mindful choices, this course offers a welcoming space to explore the core principles of sustainable living. Through interactive discussions and hands-on activities, you'll learn how to minimize your environmental footprint by adopting smarter shopping habits, reducing single-use plastics, and embracing holistic health practices that benefit both you and the planet.

We’ll dive into timely topics such as the hidden dangers of microplastics, the benefits of local sourcing, and how to make your home more eco-friendly without sacrificing comfort or convenience. This course is perfect for those who want to live more intentionally and leave a lighter footprint for future generations.

Hands-On Component: You'll take part in a collaborative brainstorming session to reimagine everyday routines—from grocery shopping to cleaning—to align with sustainable values.

Going on a safari in Africa is on many people’s bucket list. (Maybe it's on yours?) But, it’s an expensive undertaking, so it’s useful to know what to expect before you make the commitment. I’ve had the great privilege to go on multiple safaris in Botswana, South Africa and Zambia, in scenarios ranging from day trips out from the capital of Botswana and from Victoria Falls to multi-day stays at game lodges in South Africa (Madikwe Game Reserve) and Zambia (Lower Zambezi and South Luangwa National Parks).

In this course, we’ll talk through what a day looks like at a safari lodge, including transportation, accommodation, meals and, of course, game drives. You’ll learn how pricing works in terms of what’s included and what extras you might add on. We’ll also look at some of the different types of offerings you can choose from for your safari experience.

Please click here for some inspiration for this course.

Note: The type of safari we’ll be looking at is a viewing safari, not a hunting safari.

Sylvia Plath (1932-1963) is one of those rare American poets who is firmly entrenched in popular culture: references to her life and art appear in film, rock music, internet sites, fan fiction, and related media. She is also the focus of much academic commentary. In a word, Sylvia Plath appeals to readers across the board. Much of the mystique of Sylvia’s work lies in autobiographical accounts of her mental illness and the suicide attempt depicted with black humor in her sole novel "The Bell Jar" (1963). Key to Sylvia’s drama are her marriage to the equally phenomenal poet Ted Hughes and her relationship with her parents and her own two children. Our reading of "The Bell Jar" and many of her famous, albeit shocking, poems is certain to lead to much lively discussion about depression, challenges faced by women writers in the 1950s, and the healing power of poetry. Supplemental material will include intense pieces by her fellow “confessional poets” Robert Lowell and Anne Sexton; some heart-breaking poems about her by Ted; and excerpts, clips, and samples of the pop culture artifacts just a click away. Sixty-two years after her untimely death, the Sylvia Plath story remains essential to anyone interested in American literature and culture.

Required Materials: Students will need to purchase "The Bell Jar" (available through Amazon). All other materials will be available full-text, free-access online, or will be provided by the instructor.

I hand pick all my music to get you smiling and moving. I invite you to sing along as we begin to move in our chair. Beginning with a seated 10 minute warm-up, followed by 20 minutes of aerobic movement using hands, arms, and feet - now you are chair dancing! Bring your water bottles for a brief 2 minute break, then 20 minutes of weight lifting. I encourage everyone to bring 5 lbs weights for this segment. Before you know it, we are cooling down, lower our heart rate as we stretch to classical music.

Required Materials: Sweat towel, bottled water, handheld weights (5 pound weights recommended)

We will meet weekly to discuss current events, topical subjects and political and social issues of interest to the Group. We will invite CCU (and other universities') professors as well as Professionals and Experts to share with us their expertise and views on a variety of subjects. We will also call on the expertise of our own Group members to discuss topics in their areas of expertise.

Participants will work on independent projects to explore new techniques and hone skills as they develop their own style, with the instructor's guidance and encouragement. Gather your paints and join us as we encourage our inner artist. 

This is not a beginner class, but beginners are welcome.

Required Materials: Good quality acrylic paints (minimum of white, black, red, blue, yellow), brushes, stretched canvas or canvas panels, easel, water container, rags or paper towels, plastic cover for work area, drawing pencils and kneaded eraser, acrylic or mixed medium paper or notebook.

Are you ready to move beyond the basics and delve deeper into this colorfully captivating artistic journey? If so, this course is designed for you. Focus will be on composition, value studies, shadows, and edges. Additionally, participants will experiment with negative space and discover methods for maintaining & restoring the whites in their artwork. This course will sharpen your skills as well as your mind.

Required Materials:

1. Student or Artist Grade Paint Set. Include at least: 2 blues, 2 reds, 2 yellows and a black. I recommend from Amazon: “SAKURA Koi Pocket Field Sketch Kit" 24 or 30 colors – or something similar. Please, no Dollar Store.

2. Brushes: at least one small round #2 or #3, one medium round #6, and a large flat brush. I recommend Golden Maple professionals set of 10.

3. Watercolor paper: 140 lbs./300g cold press, size 9 x 12 sheets (30 count). Arches 100% Cotton is preferred, but Canson XL pulp count is acceptable.

4. Two (2) water containers (one for clean & one for dirty rinses).

5. Pallet for mixing paint

6. Painter's Tape

7. Roll of Paper Towels

8. Spray Bottle

9. Pencil (kneaded eraser optional)

10. Tablecloth (cheap Dollar Store tablecloth is acceptable)

11. Two (2) pieces of large, firm Cardboard 10 x 13

Optional: Carbon Paper and Tracing Paper

Do you ever wonder how lifestyle, movement, and even the coastal environment influence how well your brain ages? In this 4-week course, we’ll explore the fascinating connection between brain health, balance, and everyday living—explained in plain, practical language. You’ll learn how memory, attention, and coordination evolve over time and discover simple, evidence-based ways to strengthen them through daily habits.

Each week blends approachable neuroscience with real-world strategies to support cognitive sharpness and reduce fall risk. We’ll begin with how the brain changes with age, then move into how learning and movement promote neuroplasticity. Next, we’ll explore how the coastal environment supports relaxation, focus, and resilience before finishing with a personalized brain-care toolkit you can use for life. No science background is needed—just curiosity and a desire to stay sharp, steady, and confident at any age.

This course is designed to support ease of movement, breath awareness, and gentle strength. Using a chair for support, we’ll stretch, strengthen, and breathe our way toward improved mobility, balance, and relaxation. Each session includes seated postures, optional standing movements, breathwork, and guided relaxation—all offered with clear instruction and adaptable options to meet a wide range of physical abilities. Whether you’re new to yoga or returning after a break, this practice invites you to move at your own pace and discover a sense of flow and steadiness.

Required Materials: A yoga mat (optional for standing poses), and a water bottle. Wear comfortable clothing that allows free movement. 

Explore the fascinating world of artificial intelligence (AI) in this accessible, beginner-friendly class designed for curious minds 55+. We’ll demystify AI by explaining how it works, where it shows up in daily life, and what it means for the future. Topics include machine learning, neural networks, and ethical considerations—presented in plain language with real-world examples. In the final portion of the class, enjoy a guided workshop where you’ll get to try out AI tools for yourself in a fun, supportive environment. No technical experience needed—just bring your curiosity and a phone, tablet, or computer for the workshop portion of the class.

This course will be a guided painting tutorial. 

Please click here to see picture 1 of the painting you will be making.

Please click here to see picture 2 of the painting you will be making.

Required Materials: Students will provide their own paints (please bring red, yellow, blue, black and white), brushes, 11x14 canvas or canvas panel, water container, paper towels, easel and plastic table covering.

Do you wish you could take more creative photographs? Mastering Composition will greatly improve your images. Composition is about arranging elements in a scene so that there is harmony, balance and a clear path for the eye to follow. You will learn how to frame your subjects, use leading lines, find the right viewpoint, learn the popular rule of thirds and so much more. We will also delve into how composition plays a major part in taking family portraits for displaying the memories you’ve captured.

Please click here for some inspiration for this course.

Required Materials: You will need your camera or cellphone to practice with after the presentation.
 

Artificial intelligence is changing how we explore the world. In this two-hour, hands-on workshop, you’ll learn how to use ChatGPT—a conversational AI tool—to plan your next trip from start to finish. Whether you’re dreaming of a cross-country road trip, a weekend in the Berkshires, or a European adventure, ChatGPT can help you brainstorm destinations, design itineraries, find local gems, and organize your plans.

Through live demonstrations and guided practice, you’ll learn how to write effective prompts to generate detailed travel ideas and itineraries customized to your interests, budget, and pace. You’ll also discover how to use ChatGPT for practical tasks like packing lists, translation tips, and journaling your experiences.

We’ll discuss how to evaluate AI-generated information critically and use it safely and responsibly. You’ll leave the workshop with a personalized travel plan, a list of useful travel prompts, and the skills to keep exploring the world with confidence—both online and off.

No technical background required—just curiosity and a sense of adventure!

Required Materials: You will need your personal computer or cellphone for this course.

Students will learn the basics of estate and retirement planning. They will learn the difference between a Will and a Trust, and, through a brief needs-assessment, will learn which they may need. Some may find that they need a simple living will while others may decide that they require a family trust to protect all assets. Students will learn the importance of naming a Power of Attorney for Health and/or Finances and for having Advance Directives in place. Most importantly, students will learn what will happen to their estate without proper estate planning and how to avoid probate with or without a trust. We will also review other valuable insurance options that will protect one's health and finances in retirement and provide for loved ones. Students should leave class with the knowledge necessary to begin making estate and retirement planning decisions. It is never too late to Plan more. Worry less.™

Required Materials: pen or pencil

In this workshop you will create an original piece of art using authentic sea glass. Learn how sea glass is created, how it's found and why it's there. We'll create one 4 x 6 framed art piece. You may bring shells, beads, dried flowers, shark teeth, stones, and other goodies to add to your picture. These make great gifts!

Please click here to see example: Beach Scene

Please click here to see example: Sea Shell Flower Bouquet

Please click here to see example: Girls with Flowers

Please click here to see example: Mermaid

Please click here to see example: Hummingbird

Please click here to see example: Turtles

Required Materials Fee: $25 payable to the instructor on the first day of class. If you would like to upgrade to a larger 5 x 7 frame, please add an additional $5.

Sourdough bread is one of the oldest and most beloved forms of leavened bread—its rich flavor and rustic texture have been passed down through generations. But learning to make it from scratch can feel overwhelming. What exactly is a sourdough starter? How do you keep it alive? What’s bulk fermentation? If you’ve ever tried to follow online recipes or video tutorials, you may have found yourself lost in a sea of conflicting advice.

This one-afternoon course simplifies the process, guiding you through the foundational steps of sourdough baking in a clear, approachable way. You'll learn how to feed and maintain a sourdough starter, understand the science behind fermentation, and watch as Jana demonstrates crafting a loaf. By the end of the class, you’ll feel confident in your ability to bake delicious sourdough again and again.

Please click here to see some delicious inspiration for this course!

Instructor Jana Wilson spent months researching, experimenting, and perfecting her sourdough technique. Now, she consistently bakes beautiful, flavorful loaves she’s proud to share with family and friends—and she’s excited to share what she’s learned with you. Jana is an Academic Advisor who loves sourdough, and this course will be approached with a hobby and simple mindset. It is all about fun - not perfection!

Come and learn how one of America’s longest-running mysteries – the true end to infamous Gulf Coast pirate Jean Laffite – was ultimately solved by two very unlikely sources: a mother/daughter team of amateur researchers from North Carolina. Dr. Ashley Oliphant and her mother, artist and writer Beth Yarbrough, will tell the true story of their two-year journey that began with the plan to write a new Laffite biography and ended with explosive new evidence that turned known Laffite research upside down. Along the way, they made a secondary discovery. The age of information may have furnished mankind with more readily available knowledge, but it has not yet revealed every hidden truth. Forced to improvise, to think outside the box, and to view established theory through a fresh lens, the team succeeded not only in cracking the Laffite case, but they also gained a wealth of knowledge about how to apply creative thinking to structured research techniques.

Students will hear the story of Laffite from beginning to end, following his trail as he rose to prominence in New Orleans, played a pivotal role in the Battle of New Orleans, built an empire in Galveston, Texas, disappeared for more than a decade, resurfaced along the banks of the Mississippi River under a new identity, and finally ended up in what he thought was successful obscurity in a small North Carolina town before dying at the age of 96 – fully believing that his secrets would be buried with him. Oliphant and Yarbrough will also shed helpful light on how to navigate today’s research landscape using old tools in new ways. This approach will be helpful for students who want to research family history, local history, or unsolved mysteries.

Please click here to see a photo of the mother & daughter team that solved this mystery!

This class is designed to fulfill the instructor's senior capstone project requirement, which will be presented at the end of the spring semester as a lectured recital. I plan for the band to perform three to four tunes after the lecture portion of the presentation. The class is intended to demonstrate the steps I took in creating a community steel band based on my research. I will teach people how to play steel drums by rote, so people with no prior musical knowledge are welcome to join. Students will also be introduced to the historical significance and culture behind the instrument. I plan to teach in a small group setting, so everybody will know each other. By the end of the semester, I aim to have a group of participants with a basic understanding of the instrument who will be capable of continuing to play if they wish.

Important Note: Members are encouraged to sign up for this class if they are able to commit to full participation. In order for the group to be ready to perform at the recital, students will need to attend all class sessions.

Required Materials: Sticks will be provided by the instructor. Students will need to bring a binder or folder to hold their music, and a writing implement.

We all have a story to tell! Join us and start telling yours. Whether you have been writing all your life or want to start now, this class is for you. Come experience an intimate workshop setting where you will share your stories with others, who also have stories to tell.

You will be given weekly assignments incorporating specific writing strategies to help you get started. As you write and share your stories, you will receive feedback that will hopefully inspire you further. You may want to write a book or just compile written memories to pass on to your children or grandchildren. No matter the reason, come and write with us! Find your voice and share your story.

Required Materials: All you really need for this class is your memories, a pen, some paper, and if you choose, a laptop.

Students will work with nationally recognized fossil expert Dr. Ashley Oliphant, the author of "Shark Tooth Hunting on the Carolina Coast," as they embark on this unusual engaged learning experience. This course will use classroom instruction and field trips to local beaches to teach participants about shark tooth hunting on the Grand Strand. Course content will include shark tooth identification by species as well as tips for which beaches to search, how to search them, and how to know when conditions are best for fossil collecting.

Please click here to see an inspirational image for this course.

Please click here to see your instructor.

Important Notes: The first meeting will take place at the Coastal Science Center with the remaining classes taking place at various beaches. Each beachcombing session will be combined with another of Dr. Oliphant’s classes to offer extended time (2 hours and 45 minutes) at the beach. Students will be responsible for their own transportation and parking fees for the field trips, and some driving will be involved to make sure students have the best opportunity to shell in prime locations. The course may also include some variable meeting times to make sure the tides are favorable for hunting.

Join Dr. Ashley Oliphant, a nationally recognized shark tooth hunter and sheller, to learn her strategy for successful beachcombing. The course will include one classroom lecture to learn about shelling strategies and the identification of local shell species. Dr. Oliphant will bring specimens from her personal collection for interactive show-and-tell. The other three class meetings will consist of exciting field trips to local beaches to hunt as a group with Dr. Oliphant as your guide. The best way to improve your shelling game is to interact with a really experienced sheller on the beach. You do not want to miss this exciting class.

Please click here to see an inspirational image for this course.

Please click here to see a photo of your instructor.

Important Notes: The first meeting will take place at the Coastal Science Center with next three meetings at the beach. Each beachcombing session will be combined with another of Dr. Oliphant’s classes to offer extended time (2 hours and 45 minutes) at the beach. Students will be responsible for their own transportation and parking fees for the field trips, and some driving will be involved to make sure students have the best opportunity to shell in prime locations. The course may also include some variable meeting times to make sure the tides are favorable for hunting.

Dive into the intriguing world of espionage in this specialized course that demystifies history's "second-oldest profession". We will separate Hollywood fiction from real-world operations with the help of contemporary examples, gaining insights from a seasoned intelligence expert. Learn how spies operate within different geopolitical contexts, understand the ethical and moral dilemmas they face, and uncover the strategies employed to protect national security. Whether you are a student of history, international relations, or simply fascinated by the world of intelligence, this course will provide you with a deeper understanding of the world of spies. By the end of the course, you'll be able to distinguish between the dramatized portrayals of espionage and the real tactics and techniques used by intelligence agencies around the globe.