Computational science is an emerging discipline that unites computer science and mathematics with disciplinary research in biology, chemistry, physics, and other applied and engineering fields. It is already being called the third science, complementing theoretical science and laboratory science. Computational science requires a collaborative effort across traditional academic disciplines. Work in computational science can lead to significant advances in areas such as structural biology, drug design, materials science, high energy physics and global climate change. One of the major focuses of computational science is on the knowledge and techniques required to perform computer simulation and modeling. In fact, in the design of automobiles and airplanes, simulation is being exploited in an effort to reduce the costs of prototypes, test models, and wind tunnel testing. Programs in computational science are widespread at Universities and Colleges, and are being introduced into the K-12 curriculum. The National Science Foundation supports computational science, claiming that it is "proving to be an effective way to generate new knowledge."

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