This phenomenological qualitative study addressed the problem of high attrition of Black students from nursing programs, which has remained consistent for many years. Black students have consistently had a higher rate of attrition from nursing programs than their White counterparts over the years. Utilizing the theory of integration, critical race theory and the ecological systems theory, the purpose of this study was to investigate the lived experiences of Black students who have failed or left a nursing program prior to completion. Semi-structured interviews were held to obtain detailed, rich data from the perspective of the participants regarding the phenomenon. Data analysis from the transcriptions of the interviews yielded themes such as (a) role models, and service to others; (b) negative school-related issues and concerns; (c) human tendency-related issues; (d) lack of knowledge, skills and personal life concerns; (e) decisional regrets, and educational failures; and (f) funding, and academic support failure and reference to the lack of Black role models, to date no solution has been effectively instituted to stem the tide. The implication from this study is that attrition related to multiple circumstances of living and educational preparation for Black nursing students. This research can assist current college and university settings in their recruitment efforts, funding and program leadership. Future research should consider a greater number of demographic details for each participant, as well as including the specific type of nursing program in which they were enrolled, including pre-nursing courses, and a complete self-evaluation. Such scope of research would allow tracking of student progress and highlight the point at which changes in intervention strategies should occur. [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.]