Ethan Scott Brown, 23, from Coatbridge in North Lanarkshire, was studying geography and due to graduate with honours in December 2024. But in September, the university told him he had not been awarded a grade for one course and could not graduate.
On 13 December 2024, the morning of his graduation, Ethan was found dead in his bedroom by his mother, Tracy Scott.
University Error Confirmed
Following his death, Ms Scott pressed the university for answers. An internal investigation later confirmed that Ethan had in fact achieved a 2:1 honours degree but had been given the wrong grade due to a university error.
The mistake went unnoticed by two internal exam boards and one external board.
The University of Glasgow has since admitted a “tragic error” in calculating Ethan’s outcome, but said it was an “isolated incident” and no other students were affected.
Family’s Call for Justice
At a press conference in Glasgow, Ethan’s mother described him as a “kind, caring young man who was very much loved”.
“Ethan left this world believing he had failed. The truth is he had successfully attained a 2:1 honours degree, despite the university repeatedly informing him otherwise.
They failed him, not only academically, but also in their duty of care,” she said.
The family’s solicitor, Aamer Anwar, said they wanted to know if such failures would ever have been identified had Ethan not died, and raised “serious concerns” about the wellbeing support offered to students.
Ethan had reported mental health struggles to the university, but his family said he received no support.
University Response
In a statement, the University of Glasgow said it had offered its “sincere apology and deepest sympathies” to Ethan’s family.
The institution admitted a shortcoming in communication, confirming that Ethan was not referred to student support services. It said staff training and quality assurance processes have since been strengthened.
Deputy vice-chancellor staff have met with the family, and the principal has indicated he is willing to meet them personally.
Government Reaction
Jenny Gilruth, Education Secretary, said:
“I cannot begin to imagine the impact this tragedy has had on Ethan Brown’s family and friends. It will be important for all our institutions to consider measures to prevent such a situation in future.”
Support
Anyone affected by this story can contact Samaritans on 116 123 or email jo@samaritans.org for free, confidential support.
