Yes, from the Islamic perspective, women can work outside the home. During the Prophet’s time, Muslim women were active in different fields, such as agriculture, horticulture and social work. Islamic literature mentions some pious women who have played a highly creative role in their society, like Hajira, the wife of the Prophet Abraham; Maryam, the mother of Jesus; Khadija, the wife of the Prophet of Islam and Aishah, the wife of the Prophet of Islam. According to the books of Hadith, Fatimah, the Prophet’s daughter, used to take part in campaigns, undertake the work of providing first-aid and giving the injured water to drink and food to eat. These women, accepted as models in the society of believers, are good examples for the women of today. It is noteworthy that Umar, the Second Caliph of Islam, appointed Al-Shifa bint Abdullah to supervise the market. (Al-Ahad wal-Mathani by Ibn Abi Asim, Hadith No. 3179) There are many such incidents which show that Islam accords equal freedom to a woman and a man.

Source: The Seeker’s Guide