Hi Nasem,
I was in a very similar situation last year around this time (I'm even a software developer!)
When I started going through this application process, I knew that I wanted to take the DAT in May and get my application in before June first. Because of my work schedule and the course schedule at my local university, my only choice was to take the DAT without Bio.
Learning the massive amount of biology required by the DAT is an uphill battle, but can be done if you're dedicated, organized, and require little review for the other 5 sections of the DAT. (Other than taking practice tests and reviewing my incorrect answers, I didn't spend more than 10 hours
total reviewing ochem, gen chem, QR, PAT and RC.)
I used Schraum's outline for Biology, the big Kaplan book, Examkrackers MCAT Audio Osmosis, TopScore and DatAchiever to study. I also purchased the biology textbook that would be used when I actually got around to taking the class.
First, I read through all of Schraum's, taking notes as I went. Once I finished Schraum's, I took my first TopScore test -- I think I got a 14 in bio
. I went through the explanations of all of the questions (even the ones that I got correct) and entered all information that I didn't know into a .doc file. I would then review the concepts I didn't understand, adding more information to my .doc file, which I would review before bed every night.
Also, when driving to work/school/home everyday, I would listen to the Examkrackers Audio Osmosis CDs -- they are a great way to maximize your study time.
Every two weeks, I would spend four hours taking another practice test, alternating between TopScore and DAT Achiever. After every test, I would add more information to my .doc file and and focus on all areas that I missed.
My bio score got progressively better over the three months that I studied. And I was extremely pleased with my scores:
Bio: 19
Chem: 23
oChem: 21
QR: 22
PAT: 22
RC: 23
Why don't you start studying Bio on your own and see how it goes? You can always push back your DAT date until after you've taken the classes...
Good Luck!