Objectives In order to realize the reform of practical courses of animal medicine major in long-term, cultivate talents in animal medicine with good moral quality and professional competence, and promote the development of veterinary industry. Methods The background and advantages of the student-centered learning(SCL) idea and the education model of competition driven learning were analyzed. Different teaching methods were used to apply the student-oriented education idea and the education model of competition driven learning to the teaching practice in the course of Veterinary Surgery. Results The result of teaching and surveying showed that the implementation of the student-oriented education and competition driven learning not only improved the academic performance of students, but also enhanced the learning interest of students. Conclusions Implementing the education reform of the student-oriented education and competition driven learning not only stimulates the learning interest of students, but also cultivates practical skills of students, which is of great significance for the future development of students and is worth promoting.