A university in Mississippi is waiving tuition for a professional development course in an effort to combat the state’s teacher shortage.

William Carey University said in a statement the course can be used to renew a Mississippi Educator License.

It begins in January and lasts five weeks, news outlets reported.

The class will be taught online, Dr. Teresa Poole told WHLT-TV. Poole says anyone can apply but preference will be given to practicing teachers and those who have licenses that are about to expire.

There is a $85 application fee.

The deadline to apply is Jan. 8 and the course begins the following Monday.