Critics say the move will create a "snowflake" generation of students unable to cope with the world. The University of Glasgow, part of the elite Russell Group, has introduced the warnings to its theology students studying Creation to Apocalypse: Introduction to the Bible (Level 1). In one lecture about Jesus, it warned students it "contains graphic scenes of the crucifixion" adding that it would be flagged up to students beforehand.

The same centre has issued warnings to its veterinary students who work with dead animals and those studying Contemporary Society who will be discussing illness and violence. It has defended the move saying it is to protect pupils' mental health. A spokesman for Glasgow University said: “We have an absolute duty of care to all of our students and where it is felt course material may cause potential upset or concern warnings may be given.” 

Forensic science students at Strathclyde University have been given a "verbal warning… at the beginning of some lectures where sensitive images, involving blood patterns, crime scenes and bodies are in the presentation". At Stirling University archaeology students were given advanced warning that they would be shown an image of a well-preserved archaeological body in case they found it "a bit gruesome".

Scottish Tory education spokesperson Liz Smith said it was just "ridiculous". "Universities are meant to be a place of learning where concepts are challenged and tricky subjects debated," she said. "That will become increasingly difficult if they go too far out of their way to ensure everything survives the politically correct test. Some of the examples set out here are patently ridiculous."