In this study, associations among emotional intelligence, background variables, and academic performance in prelicensure nursing students enrolled in associate and baccalaureate degree nursing programs are explored. A gap in the literature exists regarding the specific background variables utilized in this study and the population. This study used both associate and baccalaureate degree nursing students; the current literature only used one population, not both. The research methodology for this study was quantitative and nonexperimental with a correlational design. The study used a nonprobability sampling strategy with a convenience sampling design. The target population was prelicensure associate or baccalaureate nursing students enrolled in a nursing program. Statistical analysis was performed using descriptive statistics, a t test, Pearson's product moment correlation, and hierarchical multiple regression analyses. The dependent variable of emotional intelligence was correlated with critical thinking as predictive variables of academic performance in prelicensure nursing students enrolled in associate or baccalaureate degree nursing programs. Recommendations for future research include identifying other sociodemographic variables and analyzing them with dependent variables such as grade point average or emotional intelligence. Further research is recommended to include accelerated baccalaureate degree nursing students. [The dissertation citations contained here are published with the permission of ProQuest LLC. Further reproduction is prohibited without permission. Copies of dissertations may be obtained by Telephone (800) 1-800-521-0600. Web page: http://bibliotheek.ehb.be:2222/en-US/products/dissertations/individuals.shtml.]