A mum, whose son took his life after a Glasgow University grading error, says the family “wants justice”.
In September 2024, Ethan Brown was incorrectly told that he would not be eligible to graduate with an Honours degree from the University of Glasgow after not receiving a grade in one course.
The 24-year-old took his life on December 13, 2024, the day he should have been graduating.
He was found by his mum Tracy Scott.
A subsequent internal investigation later concluded that Ethan had been awarded the wrong grade and should have graduated with a 2:1 Honours degree.
It was also revealed the mistake was not spotted by university staff, two internal exam boards, or an external exam board.
A Quality Assurance Agency (QAA) review found systemic risks around academic processes and the student experience following Ethan’s death.
STV NewsInspectors identified several areas for improvement and issued 21 specific recommendations.
Tracy told STV News that the investigation will not bring her son back, but it will help future students.
She said: “We wanted everyone to know of Ethan’s success and the University of Glasgow’s failings, and that’s happened.
“But we want change, we want students to be protected. It won’t help us, we’ve lost Ethan, the worst has happened for us.
“But we have to safeguard future students.”
The Crown Office confirmed the circumstances of Ethan’s death are being re-examined and that the family will be kept updated.
Tracy added: “We want justice for Ethan. If his story being known has helped others, we’ll absolutely take that.”
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