Course design of steel structures plays an important role in practical course of civil engineering specialty. Traditional evaluation methods for course design of steel structures are very subjective, and difficult to reflect the students' comprehensive ability. Therefore, a score assessment calculation method for course design of steel structures based on analytic hierarchy process is proposed by qualitatively analyzing the influencing factors which affect the course exercise of steel structures. Five first-level evaluation indicators and 17 secondary level evaluation indicators are presented, in addition a mathematical model for score assessment of course exercise of steel structures based on analytic hierarchy process is also built. The teaching practice indicates that this method is beneficial to mobilize students' enthusiasm and initiative, and is conducive to promote the quality improvement of course design of steel structures.