The popularization of higher education plays a pivotal role in driving sustainable societal development by expanding access to knowledge and fostering innovation. This study investigates the complex interplay between higher education expansion and the sustainable management of social resources. It examines how broader access to tertiary education impacts resource allocation, educational outcomes, and environmental, social, and financial sustainability. Using a mixed-method approach, the research incorporates quantitative analysis—leveraging models such as entropy weight analysis and coupling coordination degree—as well as qualitative case studies, with a focus on China's Yangtze River Economic Belt. Findings reveal that while higher education popularization enhances human capital and social equity, it also places significant demands on financial, infrastructural, and environmental resources, necessitating coordinated policy measures. This paper highlights actionable strategies for balancing higher education expansion with resource sustainability, offering critical insights for policymakers and educators seeking to align educational growth with sustainable development goals.