Objective To investigate and interpret the online learning experience of baccalaureate nursing students for further improvement of educational efficiency. Methods Purposive sampling method was utilized，and 13 baccalaureate nursing students who participated in online learning were individually interviewed. A Ricoeur-inspired phenomenological hermeneutic approach including naive reading，structural analyses，and critical interpretation was adopted to analyze and interpret the narrative text. Results Four themes with seven subthemes were formulated from the data，including：the need to adapt to the new learning environment （being overwhelmed by learning resources；being tired of the increased burden of schoolwork；being forced to change the learning style）；enjoying the online interaction（being more active and freer in participating in interaction）；the need for self-control and heteronomy（low learning efficiency；harm to eyesight and physical health） and expecting necessary offline training （being unsatisfied with practical training）. Conclusion The shift to an online learning environment poses challenges for both teachers and students. For students，it is necessary to cultivate the spirit of independent learning and develop self-discipline. For teachers，it is necessary to constantly reflect on and adjust online teaching strategies and encourage effective student participation to achieve desired teaching results.