BACKGROUNDLifelong learning is an important part of professionalism as nurses need to maintain competency and current knowledge for practice. PURPOSEThe purpose of this study was to examine the relationship between baccalaureate nursing studentsʼ self-directed learning (SDL) abilities and lifelong learning orientation. METHODSA quantitative, correlational research design was used. Students (n = 124) completed the Self-Directed Learning Inventory (SDLI) and the Jefferson Scale of Lifelong Learning–Health Professions Students (JeffSLL-HPS). RESULTSThere was a significant, positive correlation between the SDLI total scores and the JeffSLL-HPS total scores (r = 0.64, P < .0001). There also were positive correlations between the JeffSLL-HPS total scores and 4 SDL domainsinterpersonal communication (r = 0.39, P < .0001), planning and implementing (r = 0.52, P < .0001), self-monitoring (r = 0.48, P < .0001), and learning motivation (r = 0. 63, P < .0001). CONCLUSIONNursing faculty should implement teaching and learning strategies that foster SDL abilities to increase lifelong learning orientation in nursing students.