Most Revd Justin Welby has recovered from pneumonia and will attend the service at Durham University on Friday.
He'll be given an honorary Doctor of Divinity at a graduation attended by hundreds of students and their families.
Archbishop Justin studied at the university when he was training to join the Church of England.
He said: "To receive this unmerited honour is yet another gift from one of the Church of England's main partners and greatest supports in theological education, I am hugely grateful.
"Durham is one of the greatest centres of Christianity, and I have received its riches again and again.
"From the wonderful teaching and training of my time at Cranmer Hall, through to the extraordinary privilege of being its Bishop, the home of St Cuthbert has been a blessing to me as to so many."
Professor Alec Ryrie, head of the University's Department of Theology and Religion, said: "Archbishop Justin has had an immensely varied career, and brings a unique mix of skills and experiences to his current role as the Archbishop of Canterbury.
"But the constant theme of his ministry to date is his commitment both to sharing the Christian message in fresh and imaginative ways, and also to supporting the vulnerable and weak in our society.
"His work in the local community during his all-too-short time as Bishop of Durham deserves recognition, and his passion for the North East is evident in his vision for the region."