The characteristics of the course of subgrade and pavement engineering are introduced. Based on the characteristics of the course, the adopting of discussion teaching method in the course is systematically analyzed from four aspects, such as the design of the topic, the forms of discussion, the personal composition and the time of discussion. The result of teaching practice shows that the discussion teaching method can improve the students’ studying interest, foster the students’ abilities. A good teaching effect is achieved by using this method in the course of subgrade and pavement engineering.