Correlation between emotional intelligence and academic achievement among undergraduate nursing students

Abstract

Background Emotional intelligence has become an appropriate critical base within the educational and health care field. Emotional intelligence is recognized as more than a collection of professional abilities or competencies that affect students’ ability in managing their emotions. Purpose The aim of the current study is to examine the correlation between emotional intelligence and academic achievement among undergraduate nursing students. Methods A quantitative descriptive correlational design was conducted using a convenience sample of nursing students (n = 204) from all levels in nursing college at Princess Nourah bint Abdulrahman University, Riyadh. The used scale was Schutte Self-Report Emotional Intelligence scale. Results Emotional intelligence (r = 0.279) was significantly correlated (<0.001) with academic achievement among undergraduate nursing students. Conclusions: Princess Nourah bint Abdulrahman University nursing students with excellent academic achievement had a high level of emotional intelligence.