According to the characteristics of talent training mode in applied universities, combined with the requirements of engineering education accreditation of the civil engineering specialty, the current situation and existing problems of traditional teaching of the design principle of steel structures course has been discussed. This paper probes into some concrete measures of teaching reform from the aspects of curriculum objectives, classroom design, teaching methods and assessment methods, and puts them into practice in the course. Based on the characteristics of the course, this paper introduces the specific operation mode and the establishment of the multiple assessment and evaluation system in the implementation process, and analyzes the effect of the reform and the feedback of students. By introducing various forms of digital multimedia tools, the presentation forms of knowledge are enriched; teaching links and interactions are increased to enhance students’ participation; attention is paid to case analysis to train practical abilities; diversified assessments are adopted to maintain the attractiveness of the course. The comprehensive ability of students to analyze, sort out, summarize, present and report complex engineering problems are improved. It not only complies with the requirements of engineering education accreditation but also meets the practical needs of talent cultivation in applied universities. It has important practical significance for improving the teaching effect of the course and enhancing the quality of education, and also makes a beneficial exploration for the training of applied talents.