In most US states and most other First World countries, working as an architect requires some form of license. Obtaining such a license usually involves paying a fee and passing some sort of certification, but may also require a specific college degree.
In general, it is probably wise to get a college degree in architecture anyway, as there are a number of complex skills involved in being an architect and a formal education will not only ensure that you have those skills, but also that you can successfully signal that knowledge to potential employers. A bachelor's degree in architecture is usually sufficient, though a master's degree is desirable (many universities offer joint bachelor/master's programs as well). PhDs in architecture are fairly rare and usually unnecessary.
Once you have the credentials, you have two options: You can set up your own practice and provide consulting services (about 20% of architects do this), or you can find a job at an architectural firm. Working for yourself has potentially higher rewards, but also much higher risk; working for a firm pays less on average but is much more stable. Median pay for architects employed at firms is about $75,000 per year.
Architecture is a field that demands a strong balance between creative and analytical skills; you are essentially doing art and engineering at the same time. This makes architecture a challenging career, but also potentially a very fulfilling one.
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