Architect vs. Interior Architect

I’ve been looking into going back to college to study architecture over the past few months and looking for some advice. I’m 23, working full time as an interactive designer for the past 18months, with a 4-yr BSc already under my belt. Before I attended the open days at UCD and DIT in December, I didn’t realise that I would be studying for at least 7-8 years before I could work as an architect.

After much thought, I am considering giving up the idea of studying to be an architect, all down to the time it will take to get back into the world of professional work again. Time = money also and the longer spent in college as a mature student, the bigger the bill at the end and this is a fairly big factor also.

While browsing through some UK university websites, I came across both undergraduate and masters courses in Interior Architecture & Design, any of which take on average 3-4 years to complete. I don’t know anyone working or studying in this field to ask so I’m wondering if someone could advise me if I am crazy in thinking that maybe taking such a course would be like a ‘happy medium’ for me? Both disciplines have vast differences between them but at the same time are related. I think that such a profession might satisfy my appetite for designing living spaces and environments. I see it as taking on a smaller part of the architecture profession, or even a smaller complimentary role in the design phase – am I right in thinking this way??? Should I go for the shorter interiors route or just take on the big challenge, go for architecture regardless?

Really would appreciate some advise, thanks 🙂