Do you want to pick fabrics and paint colours?

Stick with the architecture path. Anyone can do interior design, interior designers cannot do architecture. You'll be far more qualified for either field with an M.arch.

I was you, 6 years ago. Left the military, got an M. Arch, now working as an architect trying to get licensed. Financially, it was a pretty terrible decision. But I don't get sent to Iraq, I go home every night and I create things, so my job satisfaction is very high. Point is, make sure this is really what you want.

If it IS what you want, I agree with Non, get the M. Arch, you can go more places with it. Or get a degree in Urban Planning.

I wouldn't worry about having an edge on your peers solely because of your degree. As an architect/planner you'll be just as green as your fellow graduates. As an employee you should be years ahead of them because of your background, and in my experience that counts, a lot.

Not sure what your situation is, but should you get licensed, own your own business, and be service disabled, there are government contracts that are only available to service disabled veteran owned small businesses.  I've only ever come across one of those in the Architecture world.  They have one hellacious monopoly on things. 

Senj - im not disabled and hopefully it stays that way so that isn't an option for me.

smile - yes this is definitely what I want. I love what I do but there is more.. im sure you know the feeling im talking about. is there really such a financial difference though? looking at salaries it seems like i'll make almost double at some point but at the very least slightly more than now starting salary

I would imagine you would have to be a pretty senior architect to earn double what you're making now. I left as an O3, so that money was pretty good. Not sure of your grade so you could be in line for more income...just keep in mind anything on your LES that's an "allowance" is tax free income and that really bumps up your take-home pay. Have to account for that when comparing base-pay and salary.

Good luck with your transition. Feel free to message me if you have questions or need help with whatever.

I would love a Duel degree!  Think of the cool weaponry; pistols, saber / foil / epee.  Down side is all the classes begin at dawn...

Promotable Specialist so your pay eclipsed mine but I'll do that. I appreciate the advice.

and thank you. I'm hoping it's a smooth one.