Make a list of all academic institutions that offer the area of Information Systems you are most interested in. Include in this list tuition and fees, number of credits required, and residency requirements if you will be pursing this degree through distance education.
Try to contact current students to discuss their satisfaction with the program. Contact researchers in your area of interest to find out if a research assistantship is available. Many institutions offer research fellowships that have a yearly stipend and tuition waiver.
Take the GRE. The Graduate Record Examination is required by many institutions. This examination evaluates the basic skills you will need to pursue a graduate degree.
Apply to the institution(s) that best fit your desired area of study. You will need to download or request each school's application guidelines. Review these documents carefully. Be sure to give yourself enough time to create a proper application. How you present yourself in this application is weighed heavily by the institution.
Write your statement of intent. This is generally a detailed statement that communicates your interest in the program, your goals and your dissertation theory if known.
Gather three professional references. Your references will need to explain why you are a good candidate for a PhD program in Information Systems. The documents will need to be sealed and submitted directly to the institution.
Prepare to dedicate yourself to your course work and research for at least 4 years, if not longer. A doctorate in Information Systems is a thorough and deeply involved program. Earning this degree constitutes a lifelong pursuit of Information Systems research, development, management and education