Abstract: PURPOSE: To apply problem-based learning (PBL) in pre-job training of postgraduate students in department of endodontics. METHODS: Thirty master degree postgraduate students of China Medical University were randomly divided into 2 groups, there were 15 students in each group. One group were taught with PBL method while the other group with lecture-based learning (LBL) method. The teaching effect was measured with examination and questionnaire survey. The data were analyzed by student's t-test using SPSS 11.5 software package. RESULTS: There was no significant difference in basic knowledge, medical records writing, oral examination between the two groups (P>0.05). There were significant differences in case analysis, dental operation, theory examination, practical examination and total scores between the two groups (P<0.05). The PBL method was welcomed by master degree postgraduate students. CONCLUSIONS: The abilities of postgraduate students can be developed by PBL method in different aspects. PBL achieves satisfactory teaching effect, and can be applied in pre-job training of postgraduate students.

Key words: PBL, Endodontics, Pre-job training