by: Karen Moore

The field of criminal justice is no longer a male-dominated industry. In fact, it is now a booming and nearly recession-proof field that is constantly seeking highly-trained individuals of both gender. The following are descriptions of the many rewarding career options the field of criminal justice has to offer for women.

Law Enforcement:

Opportunities for women exist in law enforcement at local, county, state and federal levels. Whether you want to work patrol, corrections, security or become specialized in some area, law enforcement may be the place for you. State positions are available in the area of highway patrol or the division of criminal intelligence. Federal positions for law enforcement vary within each agency. Such positions are available in the Federal Bureau of Investigations; Border Patrol; Alcohol, Tobacco and Firearm; Secret Service and Homeland Security.

Civilian Support:

Every agency of criminal justice uses civilian support personnel and many of these positions are held by women. Report takers, dispatchers, records specialists, computer information support personnel and radio technicians are the predominate positions held by civilian support.

Court Positions:

Lawyers, victim advocates, domestic violence advocates, paralegals, court reporters and support staff positions are other viable options for women in criminal justice. There are investigative positions for both