For node-intensive sensor networks, hierarchical topology control can effectively save energy. Based on the existing two-layer model, we propose a logical three-tiered topology control model which consist of relay nodes(RNs), application nodes(ANs) and sensor nodes(SNs). Under this architecture, the goal of lower-tier SNs is to sense the playing fields and middle-tier ANs only neeed to gather data from their clusters; Upper-tier RNs are designed to route information as efficiently as possible. Then we develop a self-organizing clustering topology control(SOCTC) algorithm based on the three-tier architecture, which does rely on location information and has some advantages such as self-organization, cluster-head uniform distribution, etc. Simulation results show that SCOTC can prolong the cluster-head life more 15% than GAF, and considerably minimize the total power consumption for WSNs.