Objective: To describe and analyze the emergence and development program of Specialization in Perinatal Nursing at the National University of Colombia, between 1980 and 1990, in the light of the national context in education, health and nursing. Method: Qualitative research with sources of information and witness interviews to direct actors that allowed the reconstruction of the historical fact. Results: The emergence of the Specialization in Perinatal Nursing at the National University of Colombia was directly influenced by policies and development strategies of national and international level constituted as a central axis in the planning and further development of the specialization. Moreover, the internal processes of the National University and especially in the School of Nursing on issues related to the reform of higher education and strengthening of graduate programs in nursing in Latin America were key issues in the scope of the program. Finally, leadership and experience of teachers, along with international consultants, materialized the idea of the Specialization in Perinatal Nursing to be brought into a curriculum that managed to train human resources capable of responding effectively to the health needs of women and newborns. Conclusions: The emergence of the Specialization in Perinatal Nursing at the National University of Colombia marked a transformation in the model of care for the mother and newborn, with implications for practice, research and care policies emanating from the Ministry of Health.