A visual language called G exists. It is forms the backbone of LabVIEW (a product of National Instruments [NI]). You could use it like any other programming language to solve problems. IMHO it is quite powerful. However, LabVIEW's real strength lies in providing an easy interface for data acquisition from cards, again by NI, specifically built for the purpose. LabVIEW is pretty much ubuquitous in university labs.
Edit: There is also Agilent VEE.