For a successful dissertation, making a good choice of major professor is crucial.  Working closely with a professor in your field of interest while conducting the research. If you have an idea of your possible Ph.D, specialization, you may want to  to personally meet faculty and discuss research projects of mutual interest. 

 You should begin by researching potential major professors and current research projects through our web sites and personal contacts with the faculty.  If possible, you are encouraged to visit the campus

Mapping-Your-Future has the website TEN STEP FOR PROSPECTIVE GRADUATE AND PROFESSIONAL STUDENTS TO FOLLOW.

BOWLING GREEN SU has 8 page PDF guide http://www.bgsu.edu/offices/sa/career/students/pdfs/grad_school.pdf

Scroll down to page 3:   http://www.fpc.edu/pages/StudentLife/cp/careerhowto.html#grad

UTHER   http://career.luther.edu/gradschool/index.html

UCSB CHECK GRAD SCHOOL OPTION
http://career.ucsb.edu/

Franklin Pierce  (page 2)   www.fpc.edu/pages/StudentLife/cp/careerhowto.html#grad

Western Washington U   http://www.careers.wwu.edu/appgrad3.asp