Finish prerequisites, such as an undergraduate and master's degree in English, literature or a related field.
Apply to the programs of your choice, providing letters of recommendation and a plan of study. Some universities require students to take entrance exams, so be prepared.
Complete doctorate coursework. Courses might include interpretation, mythology and literary cultures.
Complete and defend a dissertation on a pre-approved topic. This is more than a research paper. It should add to the body of knowledge in the field of literature.