Abstract: Purpose　To investigate the training methods on urology science degree postgraduates. Methods A total of 26 science degree postgraduates were divided into two groups, one trained through scientific research projects (the project group), the other trained by study topics selected independently under the direction of the tutors (the exploration group). At graduation, the innovation ability, scientific research theory (including scientific thinking), scientific research knowledge, experimental technique and achievements on research of the two groups were compared. Results The students’ ability in research for both the project group and the exploration group reached the requested level of the urology science master degree. The differences in scientific research theory and scientific research knowledge between the two groups were not statistically significant (P=0.484, 0.786). The project-group students’ experimental technique and achievements on research were significantly better than those of the exploration group (P=0.005, 0.008), while the innovation ability of the exploration-group students was better than that of the project group, and the difference had statistical significance (P=0.016). Conclusion Both the project group and the exploration group are good means to train urology science degree postgraduate students, and each has its strong points.