Obtain a bachelor's degree in a related field. Immunology is a specialized field that is generally reserved for studies at the graduate-degree level, so you will need to pursue an undergraduate degree in a field like microbiology in order to have an adequate foundation for your doctoral studies. Take as many science and math classes as you can at the undergraduate level. Courses in statistics will also be highly beneficial for research that you will be conducting at the graduate level.
Research Ph.D. programs and apply for admission. You should choose to apply to schools that have immunology scholars who pursue research in an area in which you also intend to pursue research. These scholars can serve as mentors while you are in the program and become colleagues when you graduate. For instance, if your intended research field was stem-cell therapy, David Archer at Emory University in Atlanta would be a good choice of scholars to learn from. Most doctoral programs will require you to submit a resume, college transcripts, GRE scores, a personal statement and reference letters for admission.
Complete your graduate-level coursework. Immunology programs like the one offered at Harvard University require about one year of coursework in areas like microbiology, genetics and cell biology, in addition to any required immunology coursework. Immunology courses cover the principles of immunology, research in the field and courses covering immunodeficiencies.
Complete laboratory rotations as required by your program. Most programs require considerable laboratory research. The Harvard program, for instance, requires three rotations in which students learn research principles and methods.
Take and pass your qualifying examinations. Schools offer different types of qualifying exams. The exam at Harvard is a proposal-based exam that requires you to submit a research proposal geared towards your doctoral dissertation. Some qualifying exams may be in the more traditional comprehensive examination format that requires you to answer written essay exams.
Complete and defend your doctoral dissertation. Your dissertation must be an original piece of research in the immunology field that contributes new knowledge or significantly modifies old scholarship in the field. Dissertations can take several years to complete and must be defended in front of your dissertation committee and, in some cases, other members of the graduate faculty.