The University of Queensland will become the second institution to offer a Western civilisation program from next year after signing a $50 million deal with the Ramsay Centre.

The extended major will teach subjects ranging from The Classical World and European Enlightenments to American Epic and Situating Australia. It will also teach units on Western music and art.

University of Queensland vice-chancellor Peter Hoj.

The memorandum of understanding was signed by both parties in Sydney on Wednesday. It said they shared a commitment to academic freedom.

"[It will be] consistent with UQ maintaining autonomy over all key governance arrangements," the memorandum said.