Women Are Breaking Barriers in Criminal Justice

Pursuing a criminal justice major opens the door to a world of opportunities in the field of law enforcement, corrections, and legal studies. This major provides students with a comprehensive understanding of the criminal justice system, including the roles and responsibilities of various agencies, the intricacies of criminal law, and the societal impacts of crime and punishment. By studying a criminal justice major, students are equipped with the knowledge and skills necessary to make a meaningful impact in their communities, whether they choose to become police officers, probation officers, or legal professionals. This field of study not only prepares individuals for a rewarding career but also fosters a deep sense of justice and commitment to public service.

​​Across the country, more women are stepping into the criminal justice field and changing it for the better. From cybercrime investigations to forensic science labs, women are making critical contributions to public safety, ethical leadership, and community trust.

Yet despite this progress, women still account for just 12% of sworn police officers nationwide (KBTX News, 2025). That figure reflects a broader representation gap across many branches of the justice system, from frontline policing to investigative and leadership roles.

This gender gap isn’t a barrier; it’s an invitation. With fast-growing job markets, national initiatives focused on recruitment and inclusion, and a strong need for diverse perspectives, women in criminal justice have more opportunities than ever to build impactful, purpose-driven careers.

Why Representation Matters in The Criminal Justice Field

When women serve in criminal justice roles, communities benefit. Diverse perspectives lead to better outcomes in public safety, stronger trust between law enforcement and the public, and more thoughtful decision-making at every level of the system. Despite these advantages, a significant representation gap still exists in many departments and agencies across the country.

Keiser students, like Stephanie Brown, reflecting on her own journey through the Criminal Justice BA program, see firsthand the power of visibility.

“It is just rewarding to give the younger generation something to look forward to.”

Stories like hers are proof that when women see themselves in roles of service and leadership, they’re more likely to pursue similar paths.

Mentorship, leadership development, and peer representation help dismantle barriers like the glass ceiling and create new opportunities for the next generation of female criminal justice professionals. When women have access to mentorship, training, and growth opportunities in the field, it supports long-term leadership development and helps agencies build teams that reflect the communities they serve.

Top High-Growth Paths for Women in Criminal Justice

As the criminal justice system evolves, so do the opportunities available to women pursuing careers in the field. Today’s most in-demand roles extend far beyond traditional law enforcement, offering meaningful paths in areas like cybersecurity, forensic science, community corrections, financial fraud, and more.

These specialized roles help meet the growing demand for focused expertise in public safety and criminal investigations. They also offer women the opportunity to advance into leadership, research, and policy positions across the justice system. Whether you’re passionate about digital investigations or rehabilitation services, there’s a place for you in this growing field.

Cybersecurity / Information Security Analyst Careers For Women

As cybercrime threats grow more complex, there’s a rising demand for professionals who can investigate digital evidence, prevent data breaches, and protect sensitive systems. This path is especially well-suited for women in cybersecurity looking to make a real impact through innovation, problem-solving, and justice-focused work. With more agencies relying on digital forensics and analysis, opportunities for female cybercrime analysts continue to expand.

1. 1. • Projected Job Growth: 33% (2023–2033) 
      • Female Representation: Approximately 25% of the field
      • Common Roles: Cybercrime investigator, digital forensics specialist, security analyst
      • Related Focus Areas: Network intrusion analysis, financial data protection, government cybersecurity initiatives

If you’re passionate about digital investigations, advancing with a Criminal Justice Master’s degree can open doors to high-level cybersecurity roles in public or private sectors.

Women As Forensic Science Technicians

Forensic science offers one of the most accessible and rewarding career paths for women in criminal justice. Whether analyzing evidence in a lab or working closely with law enforcement, female forensic careers combine scientific skill with a commitment to truth and justice. With nearly three-quarters of the current workforce identifying as women, this field continues to welcome new talent .

1. 1. • Projected Job Growth: 14% (2023–2033)
      • Female Representation: Approximately 73%
      • Common Roles: Lab analyst, crime scene investigator, evidence technician
      • Related Focus Areas: DNA analysis, ballistics, toxicology, trace evidence

A bachelor’s degree in forensic science, biology, or chemistry is typically required. Students with criminal justice backgrounds can find jobs in crime scene support, evidence collection, or investigative help. These careers are better when combined with special scientific training.

Probation & Community-Corrections Specialists: A Woman-Dominated Field

Probation and community corrections offer a highly impactful career path for those drawn to rehabilitation, accountability, and direct service. Women already represent the majority in this field, bringing empathy, structure, and communication skills to roles that support long-term success for justice-involved individuals.

1. 1. • Projected Growth: with 4% projected growth from 2023 – 2033 and stable long-term demand tied to court systems and correctional services (regional data may vary)
      • Female Representation: roughly 56.5% of the workforce 
      • Common Roles: Probation officer, correctional treatment specialist, reentry coordinator
      • Focus Areas: Offender rehabilitation, community-based supervision, risk assessment, case management

If you’re motivated by social justice and direct service, this field may align with your strengths. Students often begin with an Associate in Criminal Justice and grow into supervisory or specialized positions within community corrections.

How Women Can Grow as Financial Examiners

Women with strong analytical skills and an interest in white-collar crime may find rewarding careers as financial examiners. These professionals are key in preventing fraud, ensuring regulatory compliance, and protecting public and private institutions from financial misconduct.

1. 1. • Projected Growth: Job outlook is positive, with continued demand in government and banking sectors
      • Common Roles: Compliance analyst, fraud investigator, financial examiner
      • Focus Areas: Anti-money laundering, regulatory audits, financial risk assessment

For those interested in financial crime jobs for women or careers in fraud detection, earning a Bachelor’s in Criminal Justice with a focus on economic or white-collar crime is a strong first step.

Growth Opportunities for Women as Police Detectives / Crime Analysts

Whether solving complex cases or analyzing trends to prevent future crimes, detectives and crime analysts play a pivotal role in public safety. These roles require focus, resilience, and a commitment to serving the community, qualities that many women in law enforcement bring to the table every day.

1. 1. • Projected Growth: Varies by region; continued need for qualified professionals in investigative roles 
      • Female Representation: As previously mentioned,  12% of sworn officers nationwide, with lower representation in leadership and specialized units
      • Common Roles: Police detective, SWAT officer, crime analyst, special investigator
      • Focus Areas: Criminal casework, intelligence gathering, tactical response, data-driven policing.

A Bachelor’s in Criminal Justice provides a strong foundation for those interested in entering or advancing within the criminal justice system as an investigator or analyst.

Initiatives & Support for Women in Criminal Justice

As more women pursue criminal justice careers, national and state-level initiatives are working to close longstanding equity gaps. One prominent example is the 30×30 Initiative, which sets a national goal to have 30% of all new police recruits be women by 2030. This measurable target helps law enforcement agencies focus on equity, access, and deliberate recruitment strategies.

Florida has also invested in women entering the field. Through its Law Enforcement Recognition and Recruitment program, the state offers eligible officers a $5,000 sign-on bonus (FloridaJobs.org). As of 2024, over 6,400 new recruits have received this incentive (Office of the Governor).

Beyond hiring efforts, women benefit from national scholarship databases, mentorship programs, and leadership networks designed to support career advancement in the justice system. These female-focused criminal justice initiatives help address gender inequality while building pathways for women to succeed in every public safety branch.

Educational Pathways in Criminal Justice for Women

There’s no single path into the criminal justice system, and that’s a good thing. Whether you’re entering the field for the first time or planning your next step, there are flexible criminal justice degree programs for women designed to meet you where you are. From foundational skills to advanced research and leadership, Keiser offers degree pathways that support women advancing in justice careers. For those interested in a broader understanding of crime and its causes, pursuing a criminology degree can provide valuable insights and open doors to various career opportunities within the criminal justice system.

Keiser University also offers online criminal justice degrees for women, making balancing education with work and family responsibilities easier. Wherever you are in your journey, there’s an educational path in criminal justice built to support your goals.

Voices from the Field: Women in Criminal Justice

Behind every degree is a story, and at Keiser University, those stories often become sources of inspiration for others. One of those voices belongs to Stephanie Brown, a student and law enforcement officer who continues to break new ground in her career.

“If I can make a difference in just one person’s life, I’ve done something.”
– Stephanie Brown, Criminal Justice student

From patrol to school resource work, and eventually becoming the first female member of her county’s SWAT team, Stephanie’s journey highlights the leadership, service, and resilience found in so many women leaders in law enforcement today. She is a testament to how education and determination can help shape the next generation of female role models in criminal justice.

Another inspiring example comes from Heather Shapiro, who also found her path through Keiser University’s Criminal Justice program.

“I was super excited to find that Keiser University offered a Criminal Justice program. My experience at KU was wonderful! Once I graduated, I found a job right out of college within my field of study. I now proudly work for the Florida Department of Juvenile Justice.”
– Heather Shapiro, Criminal Justice graduate

Heather’s success story reflects the program’s ability to prepare students for meaningful careers in the field, equipping graduates with the knowledge, skills, and confidence to make a real difference in their communities.

Explore Your Criminal Justice Path at Keiser University

Ready to join the next generation of women reshaping criminal justice? Learn more about Keiser University to help find your launchpad.

Whether you’re starting or preparing for leadership, Keiser offers flexible degree options in criminal justice education for women, focusing on practical skills and advancement. Take the first step toward your future with personalized support and career training in law enforcement that helps women turn their goals into action. ​​Explore all of Keiser University’s online criminal justice programs. We offer the flexibility needed for working professionals and career changers to excel.

Keiser University is a private, independent, nonprofit university with multiple campuses in Florida, an online campus, and international sites. Co-founded in 1977 by Chancellor Arthur Keiser, Ph.D., and Evelyn Keiser, Keiser University currently offers more than 100 degrees, ranging from associate to doctoral levels. Keiser University is a designated Hispanic-Serving Institution, a member of the Hispanic Association of Colleges and Universities, and was ranked No. 1 in the U.S. in providing Social Mobility by U.S. News and World Report in 2023.

	About the Author: Dr. Fred Turner.
	Dr. Fred Turner is the Graduate Chair of the Criminal Justice and Homeland Security programs at Keiser University’s Graduate School in Fort Lauderdale, FL. He holds a Ph.D. in Criminal Justice with a focus on Behavioral Science and a Doctor of Public Administration. With over 20 years of combined experience in academia, the military, and federal service, his research focuses on border security, transnational crime, and police militarization.
	Author’s LinkedIn	Google Scholar Profile

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