Purpose: The purpose of this study was to identify and understand the self-directed learning patterns of nurses. Q methodology was used to collect the data. Method: For the research method, 43 Q-statements were collected through individual interviews and a review of related literature. The 43 Q-statements were classified by the 34 participants in the study and the data was analyzed by the PC-QUANL program with principal component analysis. Result: There were 4 different patterns of self-directed learning classified as follows : Nurses in Type I the Future Provision Type, studied to promote their own professional development and leadership qualities for the future. Nurses in Type II, the Learning Passion Type, enjoyed learning something new and had a strong learning desire. Nurses in Type III, the Self-reflective Type, continuously evaluated self and their own practice by introspection. Nurses in Type IV, the Accompanying Companion Type, studies with companion support and maintained a collaborative relationship rather than competing with each other. Conclusion: This study explains and allows us to understand self-directed learning in nurses. Thus this study will contribute to building a theoretical base for the development of a self-directed learning model in nursing practice.