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Grounded theory is an interpretive and inductive research method that is currently experiencing significant interest from nursing researchers. This paper will describe the application of grounded theory in the construction of a process model of how mature-aged undergraduate nursing students navigate their way through university. The origins of grounded theory will be discussed in order to provide a foundational understanding of how this methodology has evolved. The important features of constructivist grounded theory in particular will be highlighted and the application of grounded theory within a constructivist paradigm will be demonstrated. Strategies, benefits and pitfalls of this approach will be using discussed using examples from the completed doctoral research study.