Purpose: The purpose of this study was to investigate the effect of critical thinking disposition on emotional regulation, perceived stress and communication competence of students in nursing. Methods: A total of 362 students were recruited from two nursing colleges in C and S city. Data were collected by means of self reported questionnaires from December 1 to 15, 2012 and analyzed using descriptive statistics, t-test, ANOVA, Pearson correlation coefficients and multiple regression with SPSS 18.0. Results: A positive correlation was found between critical thinking disposition and seeking support emotional regulation, active emotional regulation and communication competence. A negative correlation was found between critical thinking disposition and perceived stress. Critical thinking disposition was the strongest predictor of seeking support emotional regulation, active emotional regulation, perceived stress and communication competence. Conclusion: The results of this study suggest that to enhance positive emotional regulation and communication competence and to reduce stress for nursing students, it is necessary to develop a teaching program and curriculum for increasing critical thinking disposition.