Coastal Carolina University's Lifelong Learning is kicking off its noncredit courses on the main campus in Conway. For more information, course schedules, or to register, call 349-4001, or visit the Web site at www.coastal.edu/outreach.

Learning the Ukulele: A popular instrument from Portugal to Hawaii, where the name translates roughly to "jumping fleas", the ukulele has been played by notables from Arthur Godfrey to Tiny Tim and Elvis Presley to George Harrison. The instrument is easy to play and perfect for group jams. Instructor Eric Hall teaches ukulele tuning, playing and performing at the summer Star Shine Cabaret. Supplies include a ukulele, which can be obtained for as little as $20. The course text is "Jumpin' Jim's Ukulele Tips 'n' Tunes,� $15. Thursdays, July 6 to July 27, 10 a.m. to noon, $40 (plus supplies).

Great Passages in Shakespeare: Shakespeare's work is best experienced with the assistance of a "Bard guide.� The scenes selected by Coastal theater professor Sandi Shackelford for this course emphasize the fine nuance and subtlety of Shakespeare's genius, and the speeches display the power of his great art. Students will first learn the basics of blank verse. Tuesdays, July 11 to Aug. 1, 3 to 4:30 p.m., $40.