CHARLESTON, S.C. (AP) _ College of Charleston students can earn college credit while surfing starting this fall.

The Post and Courier of Charleston reports Saturday (http://bit.ly/1GvY0Gc ) that the college added a surfing course to its fall offerings. The class of 18 students filled up quickly during spring registration.

Students will meet twice weekly at nearby Folly Beach and can earn two credit hours toward graduation. An area of Folly known as The Washout is a popular surfing spot for South Carolina.

A senior instructor in the college’s physical education department says the course is not recess. Tom Carroll says surfing is the hook, but the course requires dedication. It blends instruction, exercise, camaraderie and service, such as volunteering for beach clean-up.

The College of Charleston already offers courses in kayaking, stand-up paddleboarding, and sailing.