There is a major shortage of teachers in some subjects

The two-year part-time course, run by the University of Dundee, means that potential teachers can train via distance learning.

Initially the course is open to science, maths, English and modern languages graduates.

More than half the country's secondary and special needs teachers are expected to retire in the next 10 years.

Education authorities are worried that too few people are applying to take their place.

Dundee University's course will allow students to train wherever they live without giving up their day job.

'Dynamic and innovative'

Teaching practice will be during the students' holidays and close to their homes.

Professor Ron Elder, dean of the faculty of education and social work at the university, said: "This new programme is a dynamic and innovative response to the shortage of secondary teachers in core curriculum areas.

Prof Elder said the course will use the latest technology

"The course will use the latest in teaching technology allowing the students to learn from a distance, share experiences and ideas while providing them with the highest quality teacher training."

Students will be able to study in the evening or during the day, using the university's successful Virtual Learning Environment, which can be accessed from a home computer.

One prospective student, Joanne Brankin, said: "By the time I leave my fourth year at university I'll be in �18,000 worth of debt.

"The fact that this course is part-time means that I could get a full-time job, start thinking about paying off my debts, whilst working towards being a teacher, which is what I really want to do."