It is undeniable that graphic design is a popular profession–a lot of new graduates took upon themselves to study digital graphic design. However, this job is not without challenges. It can be quite daunting to think that graphic designers are slowly losing demand because there are just so many of them in the profession.

Thankfully, adding a higher-level skill can help graphic designers gain a competitive edge in the job market. In fact, you can even start by shifting your profession from being a graphic designer into an architect. According to successful freelance architect Brian Setencich, there are many benefits in shifting to an architectural profession:

• High-income skill – compared to graphic design, architects are paid higher. The median average for graphic designers is $ 46,000 while architects are paid for up to $ 76,000 on average. That’s double the salary you can get.
• The two professions are very related – as a graphic designer you are asked to create illustrators or images based on the preferences of your clients. The same is also done with architecture, only that it’s more technical and would need more knowledge about property construction.
• Can be turned into a business or freelance work – although graphic designers are also known as freelancers, architects can also do the same business model. They can be self-employed and can establish their name in the industry by marketing to clients that they prefer.

Given the benefits, now it is time to understand the ways that a graphic designer can shift into being an architect.

How To Go From Being A Graphic Designer To Becoming A Successful Architect

Go to an online architecture school

The thing with being an architect is that you don’t just turn into one on a whim. You can be licensed, certified, and you have to study the technicalities of being one. Thankfully, you can rest assured that technology is on your side. You can start by acquiring a degree online that’s flexible and will allow you to study on your hours. You can pick from a variety of schools, such as Southern Illinois University, University of Washington-Seattle, University of Florida, of Philadelphia University. These schools are ranked based on their quality and affordability.

After finishing your degree, start finding a job or building your own business

The safest route to go when starting out as an architect is looking for a job with a company. This way, future clients can trust that you have work experience in case you want to start a business in the future. You can spend a couple of years within the company, and decide to start on your own after you’ve gained enough knowledge and experience. Architects are in-demand for states that are increasing in commercial growth, such as Georgia, Alabama, and Illinois. These places are high in population and would be needing professionals to work within the construction industry.

Branch out by building your own company

This third step is entirely up to you. You can choose to stay in a steady job, or you can pursue entrepreneurship and make a name for yourself as an architect for hire. The best way to promote yourself is to pitch your services to companies who are looking for a two-way professional–those who know how to create stunning visuals but at the same time make them technically sound. A lot of real estates companies are looking for these kinds of professionals. You can market yourself both as a graphic designer and an architect.

Partner with real estate agents

Another way to look for great clients is to make yourself a top supplier of services for real estate agents. Perhaps you know a real estate agent who has clients looking for architects to build a design for a home. Brian Setencich suggests finding real estate agents who are specializing in land selling instead of pre-owned houses. This way, you have higher chances of using your profession.

Being an architect may seem like a long way to go, but it is worth it. With higher salaries and career or business choices, it can add a high-income skill to you as a graphic designer.