Become a Leader in Leave of Absence & Disability Management
Gain the expertise to become your organization’s go‑to authority in absence and disability management. CPDM empowers you to reduce legal risk, elevate employee well‑being and demonstrate strategic HR leadership.
PIHRA Members
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IEA Training is recognized by SHRM to offer Professional Development Credits (PDC) for SHRM-CP® or SHRM-SCP® recertification activities.
HR Certification Institute’s® hrci.org official seal confirms that IEA Training meets the criteria for pre-approved recertification credit(s) for any of HRCI’s eight credentials, including SPHR® and PHR®.
Why CPDM?
Become the point person who turns complex leave and disability questions into clear, coordinated action
The Problem
Employers face rising absenteeism, complex FMLA and ADA rules, and scattered systems that slow down decisions.
- Compliance gaps and audit risk
- Employees bounced between teams
- Delays in return to work
- Unclear ownership and lost time
The Cost of Fragmentation
Disconnected processes create financial and reputational risk. Employees lose trust and managers lose time.
“After an injury, an employee might talk to many departments and still not know about pay or job status. Confusion grows and time is lost.”
The CPDM Solution
CPDM equips you to build Integrated Disability and Absence Management that is clear, compliant, and people centered.
- Unify FMLA, ADA, WC, STD, LTD, and leave policies
- Accelerate stay at work and return to work
- Reduce risk with consistent processes
- Improve employee experience and trust
Enrollment Options
Go all in or earn your certification course by course
Most Popular
Full Certification
Complete the full professional certification program
Master Complex Regulations with Confidence
Navigate the intricacies of ADA, FMLA, and leave management. Gain the practical expertise to minimize risk, ensure compliance, and protect your organization’s reputation.
Lead Proactive People-Centered Strategies
Design and implement Stay-at-Work (SAW) and Return-to-Work (RTW) programs that reduce costs, speed recovery, and cultivate trust throughout your workforce.
Become a Trusted Authority
Position yourself as the go-to resource for disability and absence management. Influence policies, drive operational excellence, and shape a workplace where both employees and the business thrive.
Elevate Your Professional Brand
Stand out as a forward-thinking HR leader committed to creating healthier, more resilient workplaces. Enhance your credibility and advance your career with credentials that speak volumes.
- Professional certification upon completion
- Structured learning path
- Best value for comprehensive training
$1,110
Course by Course
Start your path to certification
Foundations in Absence and Disability Management
- Coordinate All Leave Programs
- Understand FMLA, ADA, WC
- Boost Compliance & Productivity
- Build Effective Absence Systems
$412
Building Effective Absence and Disability Programs
- Design Integrated Leave Solutions
- Manage Absences Using Data
- Implement Wellness Interventions
- Align HR, Risk, Compliance
$412
Advanced Compliance and Case Management
- Tackle Complex Leave Laws
- Lead Mental Health Strategy
- Improve Return-to-Work Outcomes
- Measure Program Effectiveness
$412
Who should take CPDM?
Stand Out with Specialized Knowledge and Recognition
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Human Resources Professionals
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Disability & Leave Management Specialists
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Risk Managers & Compliance Officers
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Leave & Human Resources Administrators
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Insurance & Benefits Professionals
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Brokers and Consultants
Recently Revised by Indusry Experts
Backed by knowledge from leading legal and leave/accommodations practitioners
Ann Kuzee
JD, MA, SPHR, SHRM-SCP, CPDM, CHPSE
Vice President Legal, U.S. Absence and Disability Management at TELUS Health
Drew Barthel
MBA, CPDM
Principal – Global Benefits, Time Off & Accommodations at Nike
Student Testimonials
See how CPDM has helped other professionals in your position
The presenter was great and the content was very relevant and interesting.
Unknown User
The information was well organized and easy to understand. The interactive learning activities along the way were a great way to keep the reader engaged and remember the material as the course progressed.
Bianca O
The class is great for HR or disability professionals
Teresa E
CPDM course curriculum has been outstanding. As an HR professional, I found the office hours and weekly discussions extremely helpful. Not often do you find a group of like-minded professionals, learning and openly sharing their IDAM experiences. Having this hour together weekly has helped me not but also be aware of trends and best practices
Taryn Johnson-Kline
SHRM-CP, TARYN M. CONSULTING
I learned a great deal from this course not only about IDAM processes but also about working together with a diverse team with different personalities and work styles located across difference timezones.
Melissa S
Not sure if CPDM is right for you?
Take a free demo and see the platform, the learning experience, and actual course content with no obligation.
You’ll get a preview of how IEA’s training works before committing to the full certification. It’s the easiest way to explore the program and decide with confidence.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is CPDM Certification?
CPDM stands for Certified Professional in Disability Management. It’s a specialized certification program that prepares professionals to lead and manage workplace disability and leave programs with confidence and compliance.
How do I claim my PIHRA member discount?
Your PIHRA member discount is already built into the pricing listed on this page. Be sure to bookmark this page to avail of the preferred pricing.
Who should take the CPDM course?
The CPDM program is designed for HR professionals, benefits administrators, risk managers, and anyone responsible for coordinating disability, leave, and return-to-work programs in the workplace.
What will I learn in the CPDM program?
You’ll learn how to navigate overlapping laws like FMLA, ADA, and Workers’ Comp, build compliant leave programs, improve communication and coordination, and support both your organization and its employees through complex absence scenarios.
Is the CPDM program online?
Yes. The CPDM Certification is 100% online and self-paced, making it easy to complete alongside your professional responsibilities.
How long does it take to complete the CPDM?
The full CPDM program includes three courses. Most participants complete the full certification in 3 to 6 months, depending on their pace and schedule.
What is the format of the CPDM certification program?
The CPDM is a three-course, fully online program. Each course includes reading, case studies, scenario-based activities, quizzes, and a final exam. You’ll progress through CPDM 1, 2, and 3 in order, building from legal foundations to advanced case management and strategy. Most participants complete the full program in 3 to 6 months.
Do I need to buy materials?
You do not need to purchase additional materials for CPDM. All necessary materials are included.
Do I take a final exam to earn the certification?
All quizzes, exams and assignments are included. Although you will have mid-terms and finals for each individual course, (CPDM1, CPDM2, and CPDM3), you do not need to take a cumulative exam at the end of the final course (CPDM3).
Is There a Continuing Education Requirement?
CPDM graduates must submit 6 continuing education hours per year to keep their designation in good standing. Once you have completed the program you will be entered into a CE tracker and your CE requirement will take effect for the following calendar year. For example, if you earn your CPDM in 2022, you must submit 6 CEUs by December 31st, 2023.
My CPDM lapsed, what now?
If your CPDM has lapsed, there are options for reinstatement. Email info@ieatraining.org.
Does IEA offer Payment Plans?
Yes! IEA can help you optimize your budget. We have payment plan options at checkout. Simply choose the Shop Pay Installments option during enrollment and then choose the plan that’s best for you.
Advance Your HR Career with CPDM
PIHRA members know the value of credentials. The Certified Professional in Disability Management builds on your HR expertise and sets you apart in managing leave, disability, and return to work.
Connect with our experienced counselor to determine the best class or path for your goals.
Fill out the form to get in touch
Blogs
When is Leave a Reasonable Accommodation? What Employers Need to Know
How to Recognize an Accommodation Request: Triggers Every Employer Must Know
The Essential Guide to Disability Management: Understanding ADA, FEHA, FMLA and IDAM
How Disability Management Compliance Skills are Transforming HR in California
FMLA in 2026: What Just Changed—and Why It Matters More Than Ever
DWC Overhauls Utilization Review Regulations
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