Abstract: In view of the contradictions and deficiencies existing in the current theory and practice teaching of the course of engineering survey, a teaching mode that combines theory and practice in parallel is proposed. In this mode, theory and practice teaching are synchronous in time and complementary in content. The surveying practice driven by the simulated engineering project runs through the whole teaching process to achieve the teaching goal of “student-centered”. The process of teaching reform is discussed from four aspects: model construction, distribution of teaching content, management of teaching process and assessment. It is proved by practice that this mode has achieved good effect in cultivating students’ ability of combining theory with practice, engineering project implementation, practice innovation and teamwork.