Dr Barry Morgan was awarded a DLitt - Doctor of Letters - from his local university at its degree ceremony.
The University's Vice-Chancellor & Principal, Professor Antony J Chapman, said: "The University awards Honorary Fellowships and Doctorates as an indication of respect to persons who have given outstanding and distinguished service to the University or the community at large."
In the eulogy, David Pritchard CB, former Dean of the Cardiff School of Management described the Archbishop as a "distinguished theologian, church leader and author" and highlighted his campaigns for homeless people and refugees, women bishops, increased powers for the Welsh Government, and against Trident and presumed consent of organ donation.
He said: "The Church is extremely fortunate to have someone of Dr Morgan's calibre, intellect, personal skills and scholarship to guide it through the coming years.
"Dr Morgan's leadership of the Church has been characterised by high profile campaigning and the adoption of strong positions on many of the key issues of the day.
"As one would expect, Dr Morgan is a man of strong views with a passion for promoting the causes he espouses with energy and no little political skill."
The Archbishop said: "I am deeply honoured to receive this honorary doctorate from what is to all intents and purposes my local university."
Dr Morgan received his degree with Olympic athlete Lyn Davies CBE who was awarded a Doctorate of Sport.