Richard von Mises was a pioneer in applied mathematics and engineering science in 20th-century. He broke down disciplinary barriers between pure mathematics and engineering technology, pioneering the institutionalization of applied mathematics in Germany. Based on many research papers and historical archives, this paper examines Richard von Mises’ academic achievements at the University of Berlin, Istanbul University, and Harvard University, with a particular focus on his practices in reformation of higher engineering education. This paper also reviews his groundbreaking contributions to fields such as engineering science and probability theory. Richard von Mises’ research paradigm of “integrating theory with practice” that he has always upheld, along with his spirit of defending scientific rationality in the periods of social upheaval, holds significant enlightening value for promoting the development of interdisciplinary studies and cultivating the spirit of scientists today.