In this paper, the characteristics of finite element method course and the current situation of postgraduate teaching were summarized, and the reason were analyzed why the teaching effect is not good for a long time related this course. Based on case teaching theory, the teaching method of finite element method guided by case was introduced. Three typical engineering cases were discussed in detail, which were used to explain its implementation steps and methods. Finally, the effect was evaluated with the results of the past three years. The results show that the model in which science problem was discovered by studying and thinking about the case, students proposed solution by discussion, the program compute to test and verify of the results, can greatly improve the interest of students and get good effect.