Abstract: The field of Chinese engineering geology has been closely aligned with national strategic needs, particularly addressing science and technology challenges in engineering construction. The discipline has undergone stages of initiation, maturity, differentiation, and the emergence of new sub-disciplines. This paper systematically analyzes the evolution of research directions and content in engineering geology over the past 35 years, focusing on projects funded by the National Natural Science Foundation of China in the field of engineering geology from 1987 to 2021. The analysis reveals that the development of engineering geology has progressed from characterizing geological phenomena to summarizing geological laws and further exploring underlying mechanisms. Several characteristics define this development: the influence of national strategy, the impetus provided by catastrophic events, a trend towards more refined and complex research, distinct stages of discipline development, and concentration of funded units. The future of engineering geology should embrace the concept of earth system science, fostering a shift in thinking modes and research paradigms. Breaking down disciplinary barriers and enhancing cross-integration with other disciplines will enrich and deepen the field of engineering geology, propelling it towards a more scientific and multidisciplinary direction. This evolution may give rise to new scientific focal points and interdisciplinary sub-disciplines. Capitalizing on the opportunities presented by the data revolution, engineering geology should chart a new research path. It is crucial to address major strategic needs by strengthening research in the new tectonic topographic abrupt change zone, proposing new theories, and solving emerging problems.