Research doctoral degree programs in your area of interest. Setting up a meeting with the career counseling office at your undergraduate institution is usually a good place to start, even if you have already graduated. Many universities offer career services to alumni as well as current students.
Make a list of the criteria that are important to you in a grad school. Things like geographic location, caliber of the faculty, and specific courses offered should be included.
Buy or borrow graduate school guidebooks. Many commercial review companies publish comprehensive guides to doctoral programs, which can give you insight into the types of programs and quality of life offered in many of the schools in your field.
Visit the universities that have doctoral programs you're considering. This will give you a better idea of the department, and will also give you a feel for the program. If possible, set up informational meetings with students or professors.
Critically evaluate the pros and cons of schools you like, paying particular attention to national rank and accreditation. Accreditation for the institution, as well as the specific program, is very important. Participating in an unaccredited program could have a negative impact on your career later on.
Ask about the career placement record of any schools on your list, and inquire into any career services that are offered to students and alumni. The more resources that are available to you once you graduate, the higher your chances are of getting a high paying and satisfactory job.
Find out more about the admission process for the schools you think you will apply to. In most cases, the admission process is lengthy and involved, and you want to be sure that you know all of the steps upfront. Applications that are incomplete or improperly filed are often rejected outright.