AUC Launches Mypath Program for Students with Neurodevelopmental Disabilities

The American University in Cairo (AUC) will launch MyPath program in Fall 2026, introducing a non-degree learning pathway for students with neurodevelopmental disabilities who have completed high school and meet the University’s English proficiency requirements. Through personalized academic advising, students will combine undergraduate coursework with skills-based learning in a tailored two-year program designed to foster academic, personal and professional growth. 

“This program will extend our excellent learning standards and supportive environment to students of diverse abilities,” said Ghada Elshimi, dean of undergraduate studies and the Academy of Liberal Arts and Core Curriculum director. “It is fitting that AUC is helping all students further their education through our inclusive liberal arts approach. This will also enrich our own environment with students of diverse backgrounds.”

MyPath program is housed in the School of Continuing Education (SCE) and supported by the Academy of Liberal Arts and the University’s accessibility services. The program offers students courses from AUC’s undergraduate programs and the SCE offerings, carefully curated by advisors to suit the interests and needs of each student in the cohort. Undergraduate courses are taken on a pass-fail basis, with the provision to adjust the assignments and approaches to ensure students are able to learn to the best of their ability.

“Since the courses are not for credit, they are supplemented with SCE courses on career competence, communication skills, as well as social and emotional intelligence,” Elshimi explained. “Advisers help each student develop a study plan for their needs. Unlike degree-seeking students, participants are not bound by the same academic requirements and will receive a certificate of participation for continuing education.”

The program will start with a few students and will eventually grow to 20-30 students per cohort. Students in MyPath will have access to all the services provided to AUC students, including student advising, career services, clubs and facilities.


“At the end of this program, students should expect to have completed a coordinated learning path that has met their educational needs in terms of interests, skill building, self-awareness and self-efficacy skills,” said Elshimi. “Students will be in a good place to move further beyond post-secondary education, find a career or explore opportunities for further education at another institution.”

MyPath will enable AUC to expand its educational impact and be a beacon of support for a wide range of students. “MyPath is an opportunity for continuing education at a supportive, diverse, reputable and caring institution,” Elshimi concluded. “It demonstrates that AUC is forging the path to provide students with opportunities in this area of education. We hope that we will also grow in learning how to empower different populations of students.”