The 63-year-old was sacked by Brazil following their humiliating 4-1 loss to Argentina in a World Cup qualifier last month. He replaces Ramon Diaz at Corinthians, who are 12th in the league with just seven points from six matches.
"It's an important moment in my career. I hope to leave a legacy within the work that has already been going on," Dorival said in a statement.
"They're loyal fans who never give up. That's a trademark. I hope to experience all this ... At the end of the season, I hope we can fight for all the competitions we're in."
Former Brazil coach Tite, who said last week he was taking an indefinite career break, had also been linked with the Corinthians job.
