There are various ways in which you can call MATLAB from Excel:
- Spreadsheet Link EX allows easy data transfer between Excel and MATLAB. Also allows easy importing of a MATLAB figure into an Excel Worksheet.
- MATLAB's COM Automation Server you will need to write your own VBA code though. Also embedding/importing the graphics isn't nearly as easy.
- MATLAB Builder EX allows you to compile your MATLAB functions into Excel Addins. These Add-ins can work without an actual MATLAB installation and license.