The term 'program-specific' is a compound word formed from 'program' and 'specific'. 'Program' originates from the Greek word 'programma', meaning 'a written public notice', and 'specific' comes from the Latin 'specificus', meaning 'pertaining to a species'.

'Program' evolved from the Greek 'programma' through Latin and Old French, while 'specific' transitioned from Latin 'specificus' to Middle English 'specifique'.

Initially, 'program' referred to a public notice or proclamation, while 'specific' meant pertaining to a species. Over time, 'program-specific' came to mean tailored to a particular program.